Asia PEVC, Author at AsiaPEVC.com

OMP Unveils UnisonIQ: the AI Breakthrough Transforming Supply Chain Decision-Making

OMP, a global leader in supply chain planning solutions, today announced the availability of UnisonIQ, a game-changing AI orchestration framework that transforms supply chain decision-making through human-AI synergy. Embedded within OMP’s Unison Planning™ platform, UnisonIQ delivers insightful always-on agents that leverage Unison Companion, a generative AI-based assistant, and market-leading AI engines.

UnisonIQ

Bridging four decades of supply chain innovation with the agentic age

As supply chains face unprecedented complexity and volatility, organizations need more than traditional planning tools – they need intelligent systems that can adapt, learn, and act autonomously. Gartner predicts that by 2030, 50% of cross-functional supply chain management (SCM) solutions will use intelligent agents to autonomously execute decisions in the ecosystem.

With UnisonIQ, industry leaders can orchestrate decision-centric planning across their global supply chains. This framework meets manufacturers as they progress on their transformation journey, enabling a seamless evolution from AI-assisted operations to agentic teamwork and ultimately to fully autonomous planning. This new era of human-AI synergy empowers planners to harmonize end-to-end supply chains with unprecedented alignment, agility, and excellence – even amid constant disruption.

By enabling autonomous planning with full transparency, UnisonIQ demonstrates how autonomous and agentic AI are transforming the future of touchless decision-making and helping organizations build resilience in an era of relentless market volatility.

“This is an evolution grounded in reality, not just buzzwords, designed to provide incremental value and drive business adoption,” said Andrew Byer, supply chain advisor. “With UnisonIQ, organizations can now move beyond reactive planning to truly proactive, autonomous decision-making.”

Three pillars of UnisonIQ
1. Always-on agents: delivering real-world AI success
UnisonIQ introduces a new paradigm in supply chain management through decision-centric, event-driven agents that go beyond technology to offer a strategic platform for business resilience and growth. Building on forty years of supply chain innovation and expertise, and collaborating with innovation partners for validation and refinement, UnisonIQ delivers a robust framework for autonomous planning.

Its agentic architecture includes a diverse range of persona-based agents equipped with AI skills, including optimization, scenario management, and data management, transforming key decisions into plans and continuously learning from sensing and user direction:

Supply planning agent: Constantly optimizes production and distribution decisions
Scenario planning agent: Simulates complex scenarios for proactive planning
Demand planning agent: Anticipates market changes and optimizes forecasting processes
Data management agent: Ensures data quality and consistency across all planning systems

“At Zero100 Live 2025, we saw firsthand how decision-centric planning powered by agentic AI is no longer a future vision; it’s happening now,” says Philip Vervloesem, Chief Commercial Officer. “UnisonIQ brings together decades of supply chain expertise with cutting-edge AI to help planners move from reactive responses to confident, autonomous decisions.”

2. Unison Companion: driving collaboration and adoption
While Unison Planning’s AI-powered approach proactively optimizes supply chain operations, Unison Companion, its generative AI assistant, enhances user adoption and collaboration to unlock the platform’s full value. Designed to support a wide range of users, Unison Companion leverages natural language capabilities to accelerate onboarding and increase platform utilization.

Recognizing that different users have different needs, Unison Companion speaks the language of business, tailored to each role – whether it’s a data architect seeking better master data quality, a business leader influencing S&OP scenarios, or a salesperson simply asking when an order will be delivered. This personalized, AI-driven support ensures every user can obtain maximum value from the platform, regardless of their technical expertise.

3. AI engines: solving complex problems with predictive and prescriptive intelligence
UnisonIQ integrates a sophisticated suite of AI engines designed to support autonomous, decision-centric supply chain planning. Powered by the always-on agents, these engines combine classical optimization techniques, advanced machine learning (ML), and explainable AI (XAI) to deliver agility, transparency, and strategic insight across the entire planning process.

Using telescopic digital twins in combination with advanced optimization and ML, these engines allow companies to simulate, explore, and optimize supply chains while accounting for real-world constraints. The result: smarter, more agile decisions and stronger performance across service, inventory, cost, and ESG metrics – with full understanding of how every decision is made and executed.

Discover more AI innovations, case studies and analyst insights.

Experience UnisonIQ in action
Join us at the OMP REAL Conference 2025, November 18-19 in Miami, to see UnisonIQ in action. Hear from global leaders, including AstraZeneca, Beiersdorf, Eastman, Kraft Heinz, Land O’Lakes, and Visy, as they share how Unison Planning™ helps them scale innovation, build sustainable supply chains, and drive resilience.

About OMP
OMP helps companies facing complex planning challenges to excel, grow and thrive by offering the best digitized supply chain planning solution on the market. Hundreds of customers in a wide range of industries – spanning consumer goods, life sciences, chemicals, metals, paper, packaging, plastics – benefit from using OMP’s unique Unison Planning™.

Contact Information
Philip Vervloesem
Chief Commercial & Markets Officer
pvervloesem@omp.com
+1-770-956-2723

Tom Wouters
Chief Product Officer
twouters@omp.com

SOURCE: OMP

Transoft Solutions Receives AiRAP Accreditation

Transoft Solutions Named First North American Company to Become an Accredited AiRAP Data Provider for iRAP Global Road Assessments

Transoft Solutions, a global leader in transportation engineering, analysis, and operations software, is now officially an accredited AiRAP data provider, reinforcing its support for the International Road Assessment Programme’s (iRAP) vision of a world free of high-risk roads. This achievement enables more efficient iRAP Star Rating assessments performed by road safety professionals and practitioners.

iRAP’s Star Rating methodology uses a predictive, risk-based approach to assess roads universally by reviewing attributes present along the road corridor. The time-consuming traditional method of conducting an iRAP Star Rating involves accredited coders manually reviewing video footage of road, 100m at a time, and coding more than 50 road attributes. These attributes are then processed through iRAP’s ViDA software to get an objective star rating measure of the level of safety for vehicle occupants, motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians. To scale this process, iRAP launched AiRAP in 2019, which stands for the “accelerated and intelligent” capture of road safety data. Learn more about AiRAP at: www.irap.org/airap.

Figure 1. Star Rating Calculations as demonstrated in AssetMAPPER Roads

Transoft AssetMAPPER® Roads, an AiRAP accredited inspection system, has expanded its capabilities to simplify the road coding and data preparation steps in road assessments, lowering costs per unit of road assessed and streamlining inventory and condition data collection, performance monitoring and risk analysis, and lifecycle planning.

Under the traditional road coding approach, AssetMAPPER allows users to manually code road attributes from 360° video footage through its user-friendly web browser interface. Under the AiRAP framework, AssetMAPPER enables open-source data and advanced computer vision in 360° video footage to accelerate the automated coding of 20 road attributes.

As an accredited AiRAP data provider with an accredited inspection system, AssetMAPPER can help you:

Accelerate the road coding and data preparation processes for iRAP Star Ratings
Leverage multiple data sources, including open-source data and advanced computer vision in 360° video footage
Enhance road assessments and planning with repeatable, scalable tools

Figure 2. Road Coding Features as demonstrated in AssetMAPPER Roads

“We are honored to receive AiRAP accreditation for AssetMAPPER, reaffirming Transoft Solutions’ commitment to advancing global road safety through innovation. This recognition highlights the power of automation in transforming how road attributes are assessed, making safety evaluations more efficient, consistent, and scalable,” says Matthieu Levivier, Director of Business Development at Transoft Solutions.

About AssetMAPPER
AssetMAPPER is a web-based application designed to support the inventory, inspection, and assessment of roads. Featuring an intuitive interface, 360° video integration, and advanced computer vision, it streamlines data collection, performance monitoring, and lifecycle planning.

Trusted by transportation agencies, governments, and port authorities, AssetMAPPER automates asset collection and classification, helping reduce costs, save time, and improve decision-making for infrastructure management at any scale. With the added AiRAP capabilities, road assessment is further streamlined in the coding and data preparation steps, allowing for faster planning of preventative maintenance and upgrades.

To learn more about AssetMAPPER, visit: www.transoftsolutions.com/landing/assetmapper-airap-accreditation

About Transoft Solutions
Transoft Solutions develops innovative and highly specialized software for aviation, civil infrastructure, and transportation professionals. Since 1991, Transoft has remained focused on safety-oriented solutions that enable transportation professionals to work effectively and confidently. Our portfolio of planning, simulation, modelling, and design solutions is used in over 150 countries, serving more than 50,000 customers across local and federal agencies, consulting firms, airport authorities, and ports. We take pride in providing the highest quality of customer support from our headquarters in Canada, and through our offices in Sweden, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Australia, Germany, India, Belgium, France, Spain, Slovenia, and China. For more information on Transoft’s range of aviation, civil design, and traffic safety solutions, visit: www.transoftsolutions.com.

Media Contact
Public Relations, Transoft Solutions
Email: publicrelations@transoftsolutions.com

SOURCE: Transoft Solutions, Inc.

Saudi Electricity Company Appoints Eng. Khalid Bin Salem AlGhamdi as Chief Executive Officer

Saudi Electricity Company Appoints Eng. Khalid Bin Salem AlGhamdi as Chief Executive Officer

The Board of Directors of the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) has announced the appointment of Eng. Khalid bin Salem AlGhamdi as the company’s Chief Executive Officer, effective October 1st 2025. The decision reflects the Board’s confidence in the capabilities of Saudi talent and their vital role in advancing the Kingdom’s electricity sector, a key enabler of the country’s ongoing economic and social transformation.

Eng. Khalid bin Salem AlGhamdi
Saudi Electricity Company Appoints Eng. Khalid bin Salem AlGhamdi as Chief Executive Officer

Commenting on his appointment, Eng. AlGhamdi expressed his deep pride in this trust, extending his sincere gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister – may God protect them – for their unwavering support of SEC, which has enabled the company to achieve major milestones and strengthen its role in driving national development. He also acknowledged the guidance and close follow-up of His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz، Minister of Energy, whose leadership continues to serve as a cornerstone of SEC’s success.

Eng. AlGhamdi also thanked the company’s Board of Directors for their trust and support, affirming that this confidence will be a driving force to continue working to fulfil the expectations of customers and shareholders. He added: “Together with my colleagues at SEC, I look forward to a new chapter of collective effort building on the company’s past achievements across all fronts. With the grace of God, we will continue to meet the expectations of more than 11 million customers across the Kingdom by providing reliable and high-quality electricity services. Our focus will be on further enhancing grid reliability, and increasing the company’s contribution to the ambitious objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 – reinforcing SEC’s position as a leading national utility and a key player in the global energy landscape.”

Eng. AlGhamdi is regarded as one of the Kingdom’s distinguished national leaders. He has held several senior positions at SEC, including Executive Vice President for Technical Services, Acting Vice President of Risk and Compliance, Chief Engineer between 2022 and 2023, and Senior Vice President of Digital and Technology, where he oversaw the implementation of major strategies and programs across the company.1

Contact Information
Saudi Electricity Company
Al-Arid, Riyadh
alkahrabacare@se.com.sa
920001100

SOURCE: Saudi Electricity Company

Internexa Launches PoP at HostDime’s Bogota, Colombia Data Center

HostDime, a global hyper-edge data center company, announced that InterNexa – one of the largest IP networks and fiber operators in Colombia – has deployed a Mega PoP inside HostDime’s Tier IV certified data center in Bogotá, codenamed Nebula.

InterNexa operates a 32,000+ km fiber optic network throughout Colombia, and with its backbone now on-net, Nebula is established as a premier interconnectivity hub. The facility provides fiber carriers, cloud providers, content providers, AI workloads, ISPs, OTTs, peering exchanges, and enterprises with ultra-low latency, high-capacity access into the Colombian market. This positions Nebula as one of the most interconnected data centers in the country. Customers in Nebula can now seamlessly tap into InterNexa’s network, while InterNexa’s clients gain access to Nebula’s next-generation Tier IV infrastructure to expand in Colombia.

This alliance also connects HostDime’s 70,000-square-foot, purpose-built Tier IV hyper-edge data center directly to InterNexa’s ecosystem of 16 facilities. By leveraging InterNexa’s redundant ring topology and major peering points, HostDime clients in Nebula gain an advantage through direct connectivity into InterNexa’s network for accelerated content and workload delivery.

“Having InterNexa on-net is a major milestone for HostDime Colombia and Colombia’s digital infrastructure. When we set out to build Nebula, our vision was to create next-gen digital infrastructure that would foster partnerships like this – building an ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders, from cloud and content providers to AI inferencing workloads and fiber carriers. I encourage everyone to visit Nebula and experience firsthand what a purpose-built, next-generation data center feels and looks like. You will leave inspired.” – Manny Vivar, HostDime Founder and CEO

HostDime’s Nebula Data Center, located in North Bogotá (Tocancipá), is one of the only Uptime Institute Tier IV certified facilities in Colombia, backed by a 100% uptime SLA. It features 6 MW of power capacity, rack densities up to 50 kW, and 10+ fiber carriers already on-net. The facility is sustainably designed, holding EDGE Building environmental certifications. Its carrier-neutral operation, combined with next-gen infrastructure capabilities, offers Nebula occupants an unmatched environment to thrive in the Colombian market.

Beyond the enterprise market, this network expansion also improves the digital experience for Colombian end users. With Nebula as a direct node on InterNexa’s backbone, streaming services, cloud apps, and online platforms can deliver content closer to end users, enabling faster performance, smoother gaming, and more reliable access without international backhauling.

Colombia is rapidly establishing itself as a regional technology hub, with demand for reliable, low-latency infrastructure surging across financial services, government, energy, media, and AI applications. AI workloads specifically require high availability and ultra-fast inferencing at the edge, making Nebula’s Tier IV infrastructure and direct fiber connectivity an advantage for enterprises building next-generation services. By serving as a strategic interconnection point within Bogotá’s digital ecosystem, Nebula empowers enterprises to scale while contributing to the country’s economic and technological growth.

This partnership reinforces HostDime’s vision to design, build, and operate next-generation data centers in emerging and underserved markets, providing global clients with the edge infrastructure needed for growth, and positioning HostDime as a key driver of Colombia’s digital future.

About HostDime
HostDime is a hyper-edge, global data center company operating purpose-built facilities in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, and its flagship facility in Orlando, Florida, USA, with owned networks in the UK and India. Our mission is to design, build, and operate next-gen data centers at the global edge. We offer colocation (suites, cages, racks), interconnection (cross-connects, peering, transit), Hardware-as-a-Service (bare metal servers, lease-to-own servers, hardware procurement), cloud infrastructure (private, hybrid, multi-cloud), and managed services (server management, remote/smart hands).

About InterNexa
We are InterNexa, wholesaler of connectivity, infrastructure and technology services in Latin America. With 25+ years of experience, we operate 32,000+ km of optical fiber and 40+ interconnected datacenters in Colombia and Peru. We are an ISA company, a multi-Latin company with 57 years connecting people and communities in 6 Latin American countries and part of the Ecopetrol Group. We provide specialized technological solutions for governments, ISPs, telecommunications operators, OTTs and the mining and energy sector. Through our network infrastructure, ecosystem of interconnected datacenters and managed security services, we maximize operational efficiency, accelerate digital growth and strengthen our clients’ business continuity.

Contact Information
Jared Smith
Director of Marketing
jared.s@hostdime.com
386-341-0855

SOURCE: HostDime

31 Concept Accelerates Next-Gen DPI Leadership With Strategic Acquisition of Xynthor AI

Acquisition Strengthens 31C’s Deep Packet Intelligence Platform with Revolutionary AI-Native Data Loss Prevention Technology

31 CONCEPT (31C), a leading UAE-based cybersecurity innovator, today announced the strategic acquisition of Xynthor AI Software Inc., a Canadian company pioneering AI-native Data Loss Prevention (DLP) solutions. This acquisition strengthens 31C’s commitment to advancing Deep Packet Intelligence (DPI), corporate security, and data sovereignty in an AI-centric world.

31 Concept & Xynthor

By integrating Xynthor’s “DLP for AI Era” with 31C’s DPI expertise, the combined platform will deliver the most comprehensive AI-aware security solution available. This move addresses the growing need for security systems capable of handling modern AI-driven workflows.

Why It Matters
The rise of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and Claude has outpaced the capabilities of traditional DLP systems, which were built for structured data and static rules. High-profile incidents, including the accidental leakage of proprietary source code by Samsung engineers using ChatGPT, highlight the urgent need for AI-specific safeguards.

Misha Hanin, CEO of 31C, emphasized: “The convergence of AI and cybersecurity is the most significant paradigm shift our industry has ever seen. Traditional methods cannot manage the dynamic, context-aware data flows of today’s AI environments. Through this acquisition, we are pioneering an entirely new category of AI-native security solutions.”

Xynthor’s Breakthrough Technology
Xynthor brings several unique differentiators:
AI Data Guardian: Prevents sensitive information from leaving the organization using NLP-driven detection.
Air-Gapped Architecture: Keeps analysis inside the client’s environment, ensuring privacy and compliance.
Context-Aware Intelligence: Reduces false positives through AI-driven classification and behavioral analysis.
Private LLM Protection: Enables safe use of internal large language models without external exposure.
Seamless Integration: Works with existing infrastructure while supporting regulations like HIPAA and GDPR.

Comprehensive AI-Era Platform
The integrated platform enhances DPI with real-time policy management, adaptive threat detection, and behavioral analytics. It also streamlines compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and upcoming AI governance standards.

Boris Heismann, CTO of 31C, stated: “We’re not only responding to current demands but anticipating tomorrow’s challenges. Combining DPI with AI-native DLP creates a future-ready security platform.”

Strategic Impact
The global cost of data breaches averages over $4 million per incident, and AI-driven risks are only increasing. By uniting DPI and AI-native DLP, 31C positions itself as a global leader capable of addressing these critical challenges.

This acquisition aligns with 31C’s growth strategy, including performance-based incentives tied to Xynthor’s product success. Both companies will continue to operate from the UAE and Canada, combining their strengths to accelerate innovation and market expansion.

About 31C
Founded in the UAE, 31C is a cybersecurity company specializing in Deep Packet Intelligence, corporate security, and data sovereignty. Its innovative approach makes it a trusted partner for enterprises, governments, and regulators worldwide.

About Xynthor AI
Based in Canada, Xynthor AI develops AI-native security platforms designed to protect organizations using generative AI, ensuring both safety and compliance in the AI era.

For more information about 31C’s Next Gen DPI solutions, visit https://31c.io.

Contact Information
Misha Hanin
CEO
misha.hanin@31c.io

SOURCE: 31 Concept

U.S. Polo Assn. Delivers Elevated Americana With the 2025 Fall-Winter Global Collection From Denver, Colorado

Sport-Inspired Brand’s Seasonal Launch Includes 135th Anniversary Collection

U.S. Polo Assn., the official sports brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), has launched its iconic, sport-inspired Fall-Winter Global Collection for 2025. This season’s release captures the brand’s classic Americana style and sporting heritage, set against the energetic spirit of Denver, Colorado, a city known for its dynamic mix of metropolitan culture and rugged natural beauty.

U.S. Polo Assn.’s 2025 Fall-Winter Global Collection

From the heart of downtown Denver to the serene expanses of Aspen Ranch, these scenic landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for U.S. Polo Assn.’s 2025 Fall-Winter Global Collection. Reflecting a collegiate-inspired back-to-school theme, the seasonal campaign showcases the brand’s deep-rooted connection to sport, lifestyle, and fashion. The global photoshoot also features professional polo players Chloe Carabasi and Jake Klentner as models, further elevating the brand’s authentic connection to the sport of polo.

“This year’s Fall-Winter Global Collection brings to life our global brand with classic, sporty, and elevated style, set in a location that reflects the youthful, vibrant energy of our consumer,” said J. Michael Prince, President and CEO of USPA Global, the company that manages and markets the global, multi-billion-dollar U.S. Polo Assn. brand. “Each seasonal collection U.S. Polo Assn. creates is a timeless celebration of sport and style, and this season is highlighted with the unique character of Denver, Colorado.”

The U.S. Polo Assn. 2025 Fall-Winter Global Collection, photographed against the majestic Rocky Mountains, features a rich seasonal palette of Americana tones with a bold and fresh autumnal twist, alongside frosty holiday hues perfect for the cooler months. The Collection focuses on layered textures, thoughtful silhouettes, and timeless staples designed for a seamless transition from the classroom to the holidays, all in comfort and style. Standout pieces include U.S. Polo Assn.’s iconic polo shirts, rugged denim, cable-knit sweaters, flannel shirts, and varsity-inspired outerwear, with cozy holiday-ready layers and gifting-friendly options for the entire family.

“This collection delivers a versatile wardrobe of polished yet practical pieces that bring together elevated everyday wear with a heritage-driven collegiate sensibility from U.S. Polo Assn.,” said Jessica Ramesberger, VP of Merchandising and Design at USPA Global. “Whether you’re dressing for back-to-school, a weekend getaway, or a holiday gathering, the U.S. Polo Assn. 2025 Fall-Winter Global Collection includes something stylish, comfortable, and accessible for everyone.”

As part of its ongoing comprehensive USPA Life sustainability initiative, the brand incorporated USPA Life products throughout the 2025 Fall-Winter Global Collection. With preferred fabrics such as organic cotton woven throughout the Collection, U.S. Polo Assn. is committed to a path of continuous improvement, ensuring a positive impact on people, products, and the planet, thereby shaping a better future for the next generation. USPA Life is driving change in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting U.S. Polo Assn.’s commitment to meaningful impact.

135th Anniversary Collection: Fall-Winter Edition
U.S. Polo Assn. continues its 135th Anniversary celebration with select pieces in the 2025 Fall-Winter Global Collection that honor the brand’s legacy in the sport of polo and its roots dating back to 1890. This special capsule, distinguished by refined details and the brand’s signature red, white, and blue stripe, commemorates 135 years of sports inspiration and timeless fashion.

“Denver’s energy and character mirrored the essence of U.S. Polo Assn.’s 2025 Fall-Winter Global Collection. From urban street style to rustic equestrian backdrops, this global photoshoot captures the diverse and dynamic lifestyles our brand celebrates,” said Stefanie Coroalles, VP of Global Marketing for USPA Global. “This season’s visuals tell a story of transition, tradition, and togetherness, everything Fall and Winter should feel like.”

The 2025 Fall-Winter Global Collection is now available in U.S. Polo Assn. stores and online globally at uspoloassnglobal.com.

About U.S. Polo Assn. and USPA Global
U.S. Polo Assn. is the official sports brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), the largest association of polo clubs and polo players in the United States, founded in 1890 and based at the USPA National Polo Center (NPC) in Wellington, Florida. This year, U.S. Polo Assn. celebrates 135 years of sports inspiration alongside the USPA. With a multi-billion-dollar global footprint and worldwide distribution through more than 1,100 U.S. Polo Assn. retail stores as well as thousands of additional points of distribution, U.S. Polo Assn. offers apparel, accessories, and footwear for men, women, and children in more than 190 countries worldwide. The brand sponsors major polo events around the world, including the U.S. Open Polo Championship®, held annually at NPC in The Palm Beaches, the premier polo tournament in the United States. Historic deals with ESPN in the United States, TNT and Eurosport in Europe, and Star Sports in India now broadcast several of the premier polo championships in the world, sponsored by U.S. Polo Assn., making the thrilling sport accessible to millions of sports fans globally for the very first time.

U.S. Polo Assn. has consistently been named one of the top global sports licensors in the world alongside the NFL, PGA Tour, and Formula 1, according to License Global. In addition, the sport-inspired brand is being recognized internationally with awards for global growth. Due to its tremendous success as a global brand, U.S. Polo Assn. has been featured in Forbes, Fortune, Modern Retail, and GQ as well as on Yahoo Finance and Bloomberg, among many other noteworthy media sources around the world.

For more information, visit uspoloassnglobal.com and follow @uspoloassn.

USPA Global is a subsidiary of the United States Polo Association (USPA) and manages the multi-billion-dollar sports brand, U.S. Polo Assn. USPA Global also manages the subsidiary, Global Polo, which is the worldwide leader in polo sport content. To learn more, visit globalpolo.com or Global Polo on YouTube.

Contact Information
Kaela Drake
PR & Communications Specialist
kdrake@uspagl.com
+001.561.461.8596

Stacey Kovalsky
VP, Global PR and Communications
skovalsky@uspagl.com
+001.561.790.8036

SOURCE: U.S. Polo Assn.

Plant-Powered Pups: New Study Shows Dramatic Environmental Gains From Plant-Based Dog Food in the UK

A new life cycle assessment of 31 dry dog foods in the UK reveals that plant-based diets consistently outperform meat-based alternatives across every major environmental measure. Conducted by University of Nottingham veterinary researchers Rebecca Brociek and Professor David Gardner, and published in Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, the study underscores a major opportunity for pet owners and the pet food industry to shrink their ecological “pawprint.”

Key Results

Greenhouse gas emissions: Plant-based foods produced just 2.82 kg CO₂-eq per 1,000 kcal, compared to 31.47 kg for beef-based formulas – over ten times higher.
Land use: Plant-based diets required 2.73 m² per 1,000 kcal, versus 102.15 m² for beef-based products.
Water use: Plant-based options consumed 249 L of freshwater per 1,000 kcal, far less than beef (575 L) or lamb (684 L).
Nutrient and acidification pollution: Beef-based diets generated 14-16 times more acidifying and eutrophying emissions respectively, than plant-based equivalents.
Middle ground: Poultry-based and semi-synthetic veterinary formulas had lower impacts than red meat, but still much higher than plant-based foods.

Over a typical nine-year lifespan, feeding a 20 kg Labrador exclusively on plant-based dry food would require 8,964 m² of land and emit greenhouse gases equal to 2.8 London-New York return flights. The same dog fed on beef-based food would need 334,851 m² of land and emit the equivalent of 31.3 such flights.

Why It Matters
With pet ownership on the rise worldwide and demand for pet foods increasing, the environmental impact of animal-based ingredients can no longer be overlooked. The researchers conclude that increasing plant-based ingredients in pet diets provides a practical and scalable way to reduce land use, emissions, nutrient pollution, and water stress – without compromising caloric value.

They note, “feeding your dog plant-based will significantly improve a households’ environmentally sustainability”, and that, “… lower-impact pet food ingredients will be essential in reducing the [pet food] sector’s ecological paw print.”

While some suggest that using meat by-products like ‘meat meals’ is more sustainable, the study found these often ranked among the highest-impact ingredients, failing to bridge the gap.

Broader Context
This work supports earlier research. In 2023, veterinary professor Andrew Knight demonstrated that switching pet dogs worldwide to nutritionally sound vegan diets could save greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 1.5 times the UK’s annual output, while providing enough food energy to feed 450 million people, equivalent to the EU population. By late 2025, at least 11 peer-reviewed studies had also shown positive health outcomes for dogs fed plant-based diets.

As Prof. Knight explained, “Higher proportions of plant-based ingredients, or nutritionally complete plant-based diets, can substantially reduce the ecological footprints of companion animals. As awareness grows, such diets may shift from niche to mainstream – aligning our care for pets with responsibility for the planet.”

Contact Information
Andrew Knight
Veterinary Professor of Animal Welfare
andrew.knight@murdoch.edu.au
+44 7577 899 61

SOURCE: Sustainable Pet Food Foundation

TruMerit and EnGen Partner to Equip Foreign-Educated Health Professionals With English Skills for Success in Work and Life

TruMerit, a leader in global healthcare workforce development, is partnering with EnGen, a workforce-aligned English language learning solution, to support foreign-educated nurses and other healthcare professionals in building the language skills to succeed in English-speaking work environments and to flourish in their new communities.

This new collaboration enables current and past applicants for TruMerit’s credential evaluation services to purchase individual access to EnGen’s platform and state-of-the-art tools for building English skills. Through targeted, job-specific English training, learners will boost their confidence, enhance their job performance, and prepare for in-demand roles in healthcare systems facing critical staffing shortages.

EnGen’s innovative approach blends on-demand, AI-powered instruction with human-mediated support, including live online group workshops and coaching. The solution equips working adults with the English skills needed for specific jobs and career paths, including healthcare roles. Stronger English skills not only help them prepare for required language proficiency tests and licensure exams, but also to grow in their careers and thrive in workplace and community life in their new country.

With thousands of foreign-educated nurses and allied professionals arriving in the U.S. each year to help fill staffing shortages in health systems, strong communication skills are a vital asset, enabling better collaboration, patient care, and overall outcomes. In addition to verification of their education and licensing in their home countries-services that TruMerit already provides-U.S. immigration law requires proof of English language proficiency to ensure clear communication across the healthcare teams and protect patient safety.

“Under TruMerit’s expanded focus on healthcare career development, we are determined to help migrating nurses and other health professionals thrive at every stage of their careers. In the U.S., this means having the opportunity to take their understanding of the language from proficiency to mastery,” said Dr. Peter Preziosi, President and CEO of TruMerit.

“We are delighted to be able to work with EnGen to address this challenge by making career-aligned English instruction available through the personalized, mobile-first learning experiences the company offers,” he said.

“By equipping foreign-educated healthcare workers with job-specific English skills, we’re empowering them to communicate confidently with patients, deliver high-quality care, and succeed in high-stakes environments-while also thriving off the clock in their communities,” said Dr. Katie Brown, EnGen’s Founder and Chief Education Officer. “EnGen’s approach drives real-world results: 94% of our learners feel more confident using English at work, 93% save time on the job, and 92% have improved their job skills. Another 80% said they can navigate life better. We’re proud to partner with TruMerit to help build a stronger, future-ready healthcare workforce.”

In addition to the healthcare-focused English instruction, EnGen also offers content aimed at helping learners navigate their new life in an English-speaking country, covering topics like social integration, legal, financial, and digital literacy, as well as U.S. citizenship test preparation.

Additionally, to help accompanying spouses and other family members adjust, the offers available through TruMerit include special pricing on a family option, under which courses offered by EnGen can be accessed by family members aged 14 and above.

About TruMerit

TruMerit is a worldwide leader in healthcare workforce development. Formerly known as CGFNS International, the organization has a nearly 50-year history supporting the career mobility of nurses and other healthcare workers-and those who license and hire them-by validating their education, skills, and experience as they seek authorization to practice in the United States and other countries. As TruMerit, this mission has been expanded to building workforce capacity that meets the needs of people in a rapidly evolving global health landscape. Through its Global Health Workforce Development Institute, the organization is advancing evidence-based research, thought leadership, and advocacy in support of healthcare workforce development solutions, including globally recognized practice standards and certifications that will enhance career pathways for healthcare workers.

About EnGen
EnGen offers an at-scale, AI-powered approach to English instruction, designed to solve a systemic access issue: Adult English learners now represent 1 in 10 working-age adults in the U.S., yet the workforce system serves the needs of just 2% of these workers. A Certified B Corporation, EnGen is filling the gap by partnering with employers, adult educators, workforce development organizations, and state governments to connect job seekers and incumbent workers with English skills, career pathways, and employment in high-demand industries. EnGen’s workforce-aligned approach addresses employers’ recruitment and retention challenges and advances learners’ economic mobility. Learn more at getengen.com.

Contact Information
David St. John
dstjohn@trumerit.org

SOURCE: TruMerit

NanoQT Announces First Closing of $14 Million Series A Funding to Redefine Quantum Computing

The Company’s Funding Will Accelerate Developing of the World’s First Distributed Quantum Computers Using NanoQT’s Proprietary Nanofiber-Cavity

Nanofiber Quantum Technologies, Inc. (NanoQT), a quantum computing company pioneering ultra-low-loss nanofiber cavity-QED interconnects for quantum processors, today announced the first closing of its $14 million Series A financing. Phoenix Venture Partners (PVP), an existing investor, led the round with participation from Brevan Howard Macro Venture Fund, a new investor. WASEDA University Ventures, Inc. (WUV), JAFCO Group Co Ltd, Mirai Creation Fund III (SPARX Asset Management Co., Ltd.), and Keio Innovation Initiative, Inc. (KII), each existing investors, also participated.

NanoQT’s Proprietary Nanofiber-Cavity

The financing follows more than US$20 million in government R&D grants across Japan and the United States that support NanoQT’s roadmap. “An interconnect engineered for QPUs is the missing link in today’s market and will soon be a major bottleneck to achieving scalable fault-tolerant quantum computing,” said Masashi Hirose, Ph.D., CEO and Co-Founder of NanoQT. “Our proprietary nanofiber-cavity interconnect is highly demanded not only for scaling up quantum computing but also for integrating QPUs with quantum communication capabilities.”

“We are delighted to continue supporting NanoQT’s breakthrough,” said Nobi Kambe, Ph.D., Managing General Partner at Phoenix Venture Partners (PVP). “NanoQT has demonstrated steady R&D progress, and we believe the company will deliver a disruptive impact in the quantum computing and networking field.” “NanoQT is the best positioned in the quantum field to disrupt interconnects.”

Why It Matters
The quantum interconnect is an emerging, critical device class-essential not only for modularizing quantum processors but also for extending them into networked and communication-enabled systems. NanoQT’s approach is an ultra-low-loss nanofiber cavity that functions as an end-to-end fiber-optic interconnect, enabling extremely efficient conversion of qubit signals into photonic signals-a capability fundamentally grounded in cavity quantum electrodynamics (QED).

NanoQT’s initial product is highly engineered for neutral-atom QPUs, which today represent one of the most scalable quantum computing architectures. Yet these systems will face per-unit scalability limits within a few years. NanoQT’s interconnect provides a path beyond those limits, while also positioning the company to address the emerging quantum repeater market, which is essential for building long-distance quantum networks.

Use of Proceeds and Next Milestones

Demonstration of a distributed quantum computing system using NanoQT’s interconnect and standard fiber links
Productization of the nanofiber cavity-QED interconnect for neutral-atom QPUs
Expansion of engineering and manufacturing capacity in College Park, Maryland, and Tokyo

About NanoQT
NanoQT is a quantum-hardware company building ultra-low-loss nanofiber cavity-QED interconnects that physically integrate with quantum processors to enable modular and networked quantum computing as well as compatibility with quantum communication. Headquartered in Palo Alto, California, with operations in College Park, Maryland and Tokyo, Japan, NanoQT combines Japan-born engineering excellence with a global commercialization strategy.

Learn more: www.nano-qt.com

Contact Information
Dai Tsukada
Head of Operations
info@nano-qt.com

SOURCE: Nanofiber Quantum Technologies, Inc.

Anson Signs Definitive Offtake Agreement with LG Energy Solution

Highlights:

Anson Resources (via its 100% owned subsidiary A1 Lithium) and LG Energy Solution have executed a Definitive Offtake Agreement (“Definitive Offtake Agreement”) for the supply of battery grade lithium carbonate from Anson Resources’ 100% owned Project within the Paradox Basin.
Subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions precedent (summarised in the annexure), the Initial 5-year term is expected to commence in 2028, with the ability to extend for a further five years.
LG Energy Solution to purchase 4,000 dry metric tonnes per year and specifies the operational and logistical requirements for the delivery of product.
Pricing is determined using a formula-based mechanism referencing market prices for battery-grade Lithium Carbonate.
LG Energy Solution is a leading global manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, mobility, IT, and energy storage systems.

Anson Resources Limited (ASX:ASN) (Anson Resources or the Company) is pleased to announce that it has completed negotiations with LG Energy Solution and on the Definitive Offtake Agreement for the supply of battery-grade Lithium Carbonate from its 100% owned Project within the Paradox Basin in Southern Utah.

The Definitive Offtake Agreement provides for the supply of up to 4,000 dry metric tonnes per annum (tpa) of battery-grade Lithium Carbonate produced at the Project, expected to commence in 2028, representing approximately 40% of the Project start-up production capacity of ~10,000tpa.

LG Energy Solution is an ideal partner for Anson Resources with its diversified customer base of tier one OEMs and energy storage solutions (ESS) and strong investment to expanding production in North America. LG Energy Solution has eight facilities currently operating or under construction in North America, with stand-alone facilities in Michigan and Arizona and five joint venture facilities with major automakers.

Signing of the Definitive Offtake Agreement with LG Energy Solution marks another key milestone for the Company’s develops in the Paradox Basin. This Definitive Offtake Agreement will become effective subject to Anson Resources commencement of commercial production in the Paradox Basin and offtake product qualification with LG Energy Solution.

The Paradox Basin is a globally significant lithium asset, which the Company through its 100% owned USA subsidiary A1 Lithium, is working to develop into one of the largest lithium resources in the United States. The Company is conducting exploration and test work of the brine, that is known to exist, across multiple areas in the Paradox formation. This work is on-going and if successful will support the Company’s theory that the brines of the Paradox Basin contain one of the largest lithium resources in North America.

This Definitive Offtake Agreement is also an essential part of the critical path for debt funding at the Final Investment Decision stage.

Anson Resources Executive Chairman and Managing Director Bruce Richardson commented:

“Anson is delighted to have concluded our definitive offtake agreement with LG Energy Solution for at least 40% of our production. LG Energy Solution not only has a diversified customer base of tier one OEM’s they also have many energy storage solutions (ESS) customers.

Anson recognized the unstoppable paradigm shift in the US supply chain for electric vehicle battery materials and ESS and the key role that Korean battery manufacturers are playing.

This shift in manufacturing investment has led to an increased demand for lithium produced in the US, not only to shorten supply chains geographically but also increase US content of electric vehicle batteries and electric vehicles,

Anson identified this change, targeted its offtake marketing activities to the companies that have made these investments into North America and in particular, the US where Anson development work in the Paradox Basin in Southern Utah is strategically positioned.

This definitive offtake agreement establishes the foundation for a long-term partnership and we are proud that we will be supplying low cost US made lithium from the Paradox Basin to LG Energy Solution a leading global manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, mobility, IT, and energy storage systems.”

About Anson Resources Ltd
Anson Resources (ASX:ASN) is an ASX-listed mineral resources company with a portfolio of minerals projects in key demand-driven commodities. Its core asset is the Paradox Lithium Project in Utah, in the USA. Anson is focused on developing the Paradox Project into a significant lithium producing operation. The Company’s goal is to create long-term shareholder value through the discovery, acquisition and development of natural resources that meet the demand of tomorrow’s new energy and technology markets.

www.ansonresources.com Follow us on Twitter @anson_ir

Forward Looking Statements: Statements regarding plans with respect to Anson’s mineral projects are forward looking statements. There can be no assurance that Anson’s plans for development of its projects will proceed as expected and there can be no assurance that Anson will be able to confirm the presence of mineral deposits, that mineralisation may prove to be economic or that a project will be developed.

Competent Person’s Statement 1: The information in this announcement that relates to exploration results and geology is based on information compiled and/or reviewed by Mr Greg Knox, a member in good standing of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Mr Knox is a geologist who has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralisation under consideration and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a “Competent Person”, as defined in the 2012 Edition of the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves and consents to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on information in the form and context in which they appear. Mr Knox is a director of Anson.

SOURCE: Anson Resources