In today’s fast-paced world, many individuals find themselves grappling with overwhelming stress and its accompanying challenges. The constant pressures of modern life can leave individuals feeling mentally and physically drained.
Especially in Singapore, the hustle culture and rising cost of living contributes heavily to this. A recent survey found that nearly 90% of Singaporeans experience chronic stress, driven by issues like financial concerns and a general uncertainty about the future. This relentless pace, paired with the constant pressure to meet expectations, continues to take a toll on both mental and physical health, even as the new year begins.
Prolonged stress can, however, impact cognitive functions leading to brain fog, memory loss and inflammation, while the digestive system may struggle to keep up with the demands of life. When the mind is overloaded, it becomes difficult to focus, make decisions, or retain information, leading to decreased productivity and increased frustracalention. Furthermore, prolonged stress can disrupt the gut-brain connection, triggering digestive issues such as bloating, indigestion, and inflammation, which hinder the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients.
LAC (pronounced as L-A-C) aims to help individuals navigate these transitions with mindful practices and targeted health solutions. For individuals grappling with cognitive or digestive issues, LAC recommends its BrainSpeed® PS and Probiotic Complex 25 Billion CFU – Daily Support to help support mental and digestive health.
Formulated with high phosphatidylserine (PS), LAC BrainSpeed® PS promotes brain health, enhances focus and alertness, and helps individuals cope with stress more effectively, resulting in overall work productivity. This supplement helps to regulate high stress levels, balances mood and promotes cognitive functions for individuals who are seeking mental clarity.
With over 25 Billion CFUs of active probiotics and 12 strains of friendly bacteria, Probiotic Complex 25 Billion CFU – Daily Support helps to effectively maintain probiotic levels and boosts the immune system, reducing the risks of inflammation in the gut, maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in the body.
LAC also offers solutions for children to support optimal health and overall well-being. LAC BrainSpeed® Junior is specially formulated with DHA to support cognitive development and mental clarity, allowing children to stay focused in their schools. On the other hand, LAC Probiotic Junior contains 12.5 Billion CFU of Probiotics that strengthens the immune system and absorbs essential nutrients effectively.
You may access the high-resolution visuals of the products through the media kit here.
Vibe Marketing Tech Fest – the Middle East’s largest marketing technology summit, will take place on April 23 and 24, 2025, in Dubai, UAE.
Digitalisation has revolutionised how customers engage with brands, transforming the traditional linear funnel into an intricate web of touchpoints. Today’s customer journey is dynamic, interconnected, and far from predictable.
Marketers must now navigate a landscape where customer expectations are higher, attention spans are shorter, and engagement spans across multiple platforms and moments.
The 16th global edition of Vibe Marketing Tech Fest (VMF) will delve into these challenges, offering insights, strategies, and Martech solutions that empower modern marketers to adapt, innovate, and thrive in this new reality.
The theme will focus on the convergence of marketing technologies, ad technologies, and ad journeys and explore how marketers need to adapt, be dynamic, and incorporate customer-centricity into their approach.
Marketers must leverage the power of real-time data and technology to comprehend where a customer changes trajectory and what influences their decisions in doing so.
“Customers are discerning and any disruption in convenience can hamper the path to conversions. Brands must adapt to fragmented and dynamic paths to purchase, driven by real-time data and emerging AI capabilities. Vibe Marketing Tech Fest puts the spotlight on the consumer, and how brands can navigate the changing technology landscape to deliver this convenience. With this edition, we have added themes like app marketing, ad tech integration, growth, digital marketing and retail media networks,” said Sanjay Swamy, Director at Martechvibe.
Top conversations at VMF 2025 will cover:
Engagement, Apps & Social
AI, Automation & Tech
Martech, Adtech & Data
Brand Growth & Retention
The conversations at VMF tackle real-world challenges affecting marketers today, with a look at preparing for possible scenarios in the near future. Rajesh Verma, General Manager, Middle East, Epsilon said, “We need forward-facing platforms like these to help dispel the myths that surround marketing and tech in the Middle East. Take retail media as an example; many believe retail media strategies rely solely on online behaviour and demographics, overlooking the power of transactional data, or that retail media only occurs on a retailer’s website. These gatherings provide an opportunity to educate marketers on the true potential of new media opportunities, and how to avoid the pitfalls. They foster important connections that place attendees in a much better position to navigate the complexities of the evolving landscape.”
Richard Shotton, Founder of Astroten, a behavioural science consultancy and author of The Choice Factory and The Illusion of Choice, will deliver the keynote on how human decision-making remains remarkably constant in an evolving technology landscape in his session titled The Enduring Power of Behavioural Science. “It’s increasingly common to see brands and agencies incorporate consumer psychology as part of their process, although it’s not often systematically applied. There’s still an over-reliance on intuition, or when research happens, it’s based on claimed data. For example, creative routes are tested by asking people which ads they think would make them purchase… It’s not that respondents deliberately mislead researchers, just that nobody is aware of all the elements that influence their decisions. When asked, people don’t — in fact, can’t — tell you what motivates them. So, findings from a lot of market research can never uncover the whole truth. There’s still more headroom to align research with genuine motivation through the application of behavioural science.”
Speakers like Scott Brinker, Sir Martin Sorrell, Brian Solis, Neil Patel, Darell Alfonso, Fernando Machado, David Raab, Rob Bloom, and Steve Lok have delivered rich sessions in the previous editions of the summit.
This year’s speakers include Alexis Jean Baptiste – Chief Data & Analytics Officer | L’Oréal, James Dutton – Chief Product Officer | UM MENAT, Mai Cheblak – Vice President Group Media & Social | Emirates NBD, Marwen Ben Messaoud – Head of Growth Middle East, Africa, South Asia | Spotify, Matthew Horobin – Associate Director Customer Experience | Modon Holdings, Mustafa Bohra – Associate Director – Martech and Analytics | Careem, Nandakumar Vijayan – Global Director, Marketing & Communications | LuLu Group International, Oleg Nesterenko – Chief Marketing Officer | Storytel, Charlotte Davis | Acting Director of Retail Media | Majid Al Futtaim, Sohail Nawaz MBE – Head of Retail Media | Landmark Group, Sevgi Gur – Chief Marketing Officer | Property Finder, Rishi Gupta – Regional Director: Middle East & Africa | Nothing, and many more.
Founded in 2018, Vibe Marketing Tech Fest (VMF) is one of the world’s largest and most influential marketing tech conferences. It is the premier gathering for marketing, technology, product, CRM, revenue, and CX leaders. Designed to explore the latest trends, strategies, and cutting-edge tools shaping the marketing landscape, VMF serves as the ultimate platform where marketing pioneers connect with technology innovators.
Join industry leaders as they network, exchange insights, and redefine the future of marketing through the power of technology.
WEST PALM BEACH, FL AND SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA, Mar 25, 2025 – (ACN Newswire) – U.S. Polo Assn., the official brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), is proud to announce its launch in the Australian market alongside its brand partner Brand Machine Group (BMG). This entry further enhances the multi-billion-dollar brand’s global presence and expands U.S. Polo Assn.’s reach into yet another new and exciting market.
U.S. Polo Assn.
U.S. Polo Assn. recently launched its Australian retail website www.uspoloassn.com.au with seamless access to the brand’s iconic collections, showcasing the fusion of classic and contemporary style that aligns with how Australians live, work, and play. Website orders are now being fulfilled directly from the new Sydney warehouse throughout Australia and New Zealand.
“With over 40 years of experience in the market, BMG has been an outstanding partner for U.S. Polo Assn. in the U.K. and other European territories,” said J. Michael Prince, President and CEO of USPA Global, the company that manages and oversees the multi-billion-dollar U.S. Polo Assn. brand. “As we celebrate 135 years of sport inspiration, we are confident that our partnership with BMG in the Australian market will support the global growth of the brand and deliver exceptional styles for our fans and consumers.”
“Australia’s fashion retailing market continues to grow and evolve with new trends, changing consumer tastes, and new technologies. U.S. Polo Assn. looks to be a part of the evolution of fashion in the region through this market launch, by supporting the sport, and bringing that authentic connection to the sport of polo to Australia,” Prince added.
BMG has established a dedicated operation in Australia, led by Kevin Cliffe, Country Manager, from a state-of-the-art 220-square-meter showroom in Sydney. The new team encompasses sales, logistics, e-commerce, and customer service, ensuring a strong foundation for growth.
“Entering the vibrant Australian market demonstrates yet another significant milestone for U.S. Polo Assn. and for BMG’s ongoing journey to revolutionize the e-commerce and retail landscape,” said Boo Jalil, CEO of Brand Machine Group. “As one of the world’s most popular brands, U.S. Polo Assn. is now ideally poised to reach even more consumers than ever before in this unique and trendsetting Australian market.”
About U.S. Polo Assn. and USPA Global
U.S. Polo Assn. is the official brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), the largest association of polo clubs and polo players in North America, founded in 1890 and based at the USPA National Polo Center 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 1,200 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. Historic deals with ESPN in the United States 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, NBA, and MLB, according to License Global. In addition, the sport-inspired brand is being recognized internationally with awards for global and digital 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.
USPA Global is a subsidiary of the USPA and manages the global, multi-billion-dollar U.S. Polo Assn. brand. Through its subsidiary, Global Polo Entertainment (GPE), USPA Global also manages Global Polo TV, which provides sports and lifestyle content. For more sports content, visit globalpolo.com.
About Brand Machine Group (BMG)
BMG is an international leader in fashion innovation which has established itself as a vertical manufacturer and global licensing specialist with over four decades of industry experience. Partnering with recognized market leaders, BMG manages a seamless and collaborative process of designing, manufacturing, and delivering quality products while championing the DNA of a diverse portfolio of brands. Spanning fashion, sports, outdoor, and homeware, including adult fashion, kidswear, and accessories.
BMG’s portfolio of brands includes U.S. Polo Assn. Penfield, New Balance Kids, Duchamp, Jack Wills, Flyers American Born, Lee Kids, Peckham Rye, Wrangler Kids, Juicy Couture and Franklin & Marshall. BMG reaffirms its commitment to upholding sustainable and ethical business practices by ensuring full transparency throughout its global supply chain, aligning with the ETI Base Code. Visit www.brandmachinegroup.com and follow @brandmachinegroup
– Offer Price Ranges from HK$2.50 to HK$3.00 per Share
Highlights of the Global Offering:
– The Hong Kong Public Offering is expected to close at 12:00 noon (at 11:30 a.m. for completing electronic applications under the White Form eIPO service) on Wednesday, 26 March 2025; – Offer Price Range: HK$2.50 to HK$3.00 per Share; – The Shares will be traded in board lots of 1,000 Shares each; – Maximum net proceeds will be approximately HK$117.7 million (before any exercise of the Over-allotment Option); – Dealings in the Shares on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange are expected to commence on Monday, 31 March 2025; – Red Solar Capital Limited is the Sole Sponsor.
HONG KONG, Mar 21, 2025 – (ACN Newswire) – Jiangsu Horizon Chain Supermarket Company Limited (the “Company”, stock code: 2625) today announces its Global Offering and the listing of Shares on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Hong Kong Stock Exchange”).
Jiangsu Horizon Chain Supermarket Company Limited is a wholesaler of grains and oil headquartered in Yangzhou, with retail operations of supermarket and convenience stores focusing on the central region of Jiangsu Province under the brand ‘Hongxinlong’. According to the Industry Report, the Company ranked second among supermarket operators in Yangzhou in terms of sales in 2023 with a market share of approximately 9.1%, the fifth among supermarket operators in the central region of Jiangsu Province in terms of sales in 2023 with a market share of approximately 2.3%, and around the twentieth among supermarket operators in Jiangsu province in terms of sales in 2023 with a market share of approximately 0.4%.
Jiangsu Horizon Chain Supermarket Company Limited plans to offer an aggregate of 53,562,000 Shares (subject to Over-allotment Option) under the Global Offering, of which 48,205,000 Shares (subject to reallocation and the Over-allotment Option) will be offered by way of International Placing, and 5,357,000 Shares (subject to reallocation) will be offered in the Hong Kong Public Offering. The Offer Price will not be more than HK$3.00 per Share and is currently expected to be not less than HK$2.50 per Share, with the board lot size of 1,000 shares
The Hong Kong Public Offering commenced on Friday, 21 March 2025 and is expected to close at 12:00 noon (at 11:30 a.m. for completing electronic applications under the White Form eIPO service) on Wednesday, 26 March 2025. Dealings in H Shares on the Stock Exchange are expected to commence on Monday, 31 March 2025.
Assuming the Over-allotment Option is not exercised at all, if the Offer Price is set at HK$3.00 per Share (being the high end of the Offer Price range), the net proceeds from the
Global Offering will increase to approximately HK$117.7 million. The Company intends to apply the net proceeds for the following purposes:
– Approximately 30.9% will be used for the opening of new Retail Stores, including store renovation, purchase of shelves, purchase of cold storage facilities, lightings, air-conditioning, CCTV surveillance system and POS system and installation of fire safety system.
– Approximately 41.2% will be used for establishing a new distribution centre including acquiring a parcel of land for the construction of the New Distribution Centre, acquiring shelves, lightings and ancillary facilities and installing fire safety system.
– Approximately 26.8% will be used for establishing a new central kitchen, including the construction of the New Central Kitchen, acquiring machines and equipment, acquiring and installing fire safety system, ventilation system, cold storage facilities, utilities, air-conditioning, CCTV surveillance system and ancillary facilities, and acquiring additional vehicles for the delivery of meals to the customers.
– Approximately 1.1% will be used for enhancing the ERP system and infrastructure systems to improve operational efficiency.
The Company has successfully procured cornerstone investor Top Legend SPC, Top Legend has agreed to subscribe for such number of H Shares which may be subscribed with an aggregate amount of US$5.0 million at the Offer Price (including brokerage, SFC transaction levy and Stock Exchange trading fee). The lock-up period shall last for a duration of six months.
Red Solar Capital Limited is the Sole Sponsor. Red Solar Capital Limited and CMBC Securities Company Limited are the Joint Overall Coordinators, Joint Global Coordinators, Joint Bookrunners, and Joint Lead Managers. CCB International Capital Limited is the Joint Global Coordinators, Joint Bookrunners, and Joint Lead Managers. CMB International Capital Limited, uSMART Securities Limited, Star River Securities Limited, Eddid Securities and Futures Limited, Innovax Securities Limited, and Long Bridge HK Limited are the other Joint Bookrunners and Joint Lead Managers.
CleverTap, the all-in-one engagement platform, has partnered with upGrad – one of Asia’s largest integrated skilling and forever learning majors, to introduce a specialised deep-learning program / track within upGrad-powered Digital Marketing and Product Management courses with MICA and Duke CE, respectively.
With the commitment of enabling brands to unlock limitless customer lifetime value, CleverTap currently boasts a strong clientele of over 2000 brands globally to help build personalized experiences for all their customers. The platform is powered by TesseractDB™ – the world’s first purpose-built database for customer engagement, offering speed and cost efficiency at scale. On the other hand, upGrad is one of Asia’s leading integrated skilling giants that offers a range of online & hybrid skilling programs, Certifications, and Bootcamps under its B2C portfolio while also facilitating top Indian and global universities to offer their Diploma, Master’s and Executive Doctorates.
Seamlessly integrated into the curriculum, the two entities jointly enable deep learning that blends academic rigor with real-world application, equipping learners with cutting-edge expertise in customer retention, engagement strategies, and AI-driven marketing. Through live masterclasses and hands-on training with CleverTap’s platform, learners will gain exclusive industry insights and practical experience to tackle modern marketing challenges.
Learners will receive exclusive, one-month access to the CleverTap dashboard, gaining hands-on experience in leveraging marketing analytics for impactful campaigns. They can extend their access at a discounted rate for deeper learning. Upon completion, candidates will also earn a prestigious joint Certification from upGrad and CleverTap, enhancing their competitive edge in the job market.
Discussing the new partnership Sunil Thomas, Co-founder and Executive Chairman at CleverTap said, “We are thrilled to collaborate with upGrad on this initiative. The marketing landscape is dynamic and ever-evolving; it is therefore crucial for aspiring professionals to stay ahead of the curve. This partnership is enabling us to interact with young talent and give back to the industry by nurturing skilled marketers of the future.”
Commenting on this initiative, Rohit Sharma – President, Consumer Business, upGrad said, “AI-driven marketing is no longer the future, it is now. As businesses globally demand data-savvy professionals who can translate insights into impact, this partnership with CleverTap ensures our learners are not just job-ready but future-ready – armed with core capabilities of churning data sets for driving business results. At upGrad, we’re committed to shaping careers that drive the new economy, where AI and analytics define success, and this thought-through collaboration will continue to lead us with a unified approach to build a skilled talent force.”
Learners can also access videos from CleverTap University – created by the platform to expand user knowledge on the CleverTap product, business use cases, and best practices to maximize the value of the platform. These videos will be available on upGrad’s Learning Management System.
About upGrad
Started in 2015, upGrad is one of Asia’s largest integrated Learning, Skilling, and Workforce Development majors offering a range of online & hybrid skilling programs, Certifications, and Bootcamps under its B2C portfolio. It also facilitates top Indian and global universities to offer their Diploma, Master’s and Executive Doctorates. Additionally, select programs are tailored for Enterprise clients under the corporate skilling division, along with other recruitment and staffing services.
About CleverTap
CleverTap is the leading all-in-one customer engagement platform that helps brands unlock limitless customer lifetime value. CleverTap is trusted by over 2000 brands like Decathlon, Domino’s, Levis, Jio, Emirates NBD, Puma, Croma (A Tata Enterprise), Swiggy, SonyLIV, Axis Bank, AirAsia, TD Bank, Ooredoo, and Tesco to help build personalized experiences for all their customers. The platform is powered by TesseractDB™ – the world’s first purpose-built database for customer engagement, offering speed and cost efficiency at scale.
Backed by top-tier investors such as Accel, Peak XV Partners, Tiger Global, CDPQ, and 360 One, the company is headquartered in San Francisco, with presence across Seattle, London, São Paulo, Bogota, Mexico, Amsterdam, Sofia, Dubai, Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, Singapore, Vietnam, and Jakarta.
– Singaporean, Thai and Malaysian consumers spend the most
Hong Kong businesses are well placed to make good on the government’s budget commitment to step up e-commerce trade with the ASEAN bloc, according to new research from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). In particular, the findings show that the extension of the E-Commerce Easy initiative may be of huge benefit to Hong Kong’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Titled ASEAN eCommerce opportunities: Insights on Consumer Behaviours and Positioning of Hong Kong Products, the research shows that Hong Kong brands and products are already particularly valued in six key ASEAN markets – Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam – with every indication that this positive perception will lead to significant growth in future trade.
Previewed today, the full report will be released on 19 March during a dedicated session at this year’s HKTDC MarketingPulse and eTailingPulse events at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
HK electronic, fashion, cosmetic products popular in ASEAN Among the key findings of the research is the high level of popularity Hong Kong brands and products enjoy among ASEAN-6 e-consumers. In fact, some 70% of online shoppers within the six-nation grouping indicated they had bought at least one Hong Kong-sourced product within the past 12 months.
This preference was particularly pronounced among younger consumers, with the 18-29-year-old demographic indicating the highest regard for goods of Hong Kong origin.
In terms of the factors behind the appeal of Hong Kong brands and products for ASEAN consumers, the research identified three primary reasons. Firstly – and most compellingly – some 35% of respondents perceived Hong Kong-sourced goods as less costly and better value for money than those from other sources.
Secondly, a significant proportion of respondents (33%) stated that they particularly valued Hong Kong-sourced items for the way they seamlessly and successfully blended Asian and Western elements. A further 32% indicated that the stylish nature of the online inventory of Hong Kong-sourced items was the attribute they valued most highly.
In terms of Hong Kong e-commerce categories with the highest level of appeal for ASEAN-6 purchasers, consumer electronic items topped the list, winning favour with 70% of respondents. Taking the number-two spot was Hong Kong-sourced fashion items (38%), while coming a close third was the city’s online range of cosmetic/personal care products (34%).
Singaporean, Thai and Malaysian e-shoppers spend the most The survey also found e-shoppers from Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia spent the most per purchase on Hong Kong goods. Take Hong Kong-sourced consumer electronics as an example, Singapore e-shoppers on average spent US$371 per purchase, followed by those in Thailand (US$276).
In terms of individual ASEAN markets, it was Thailand that showed the greatest partiality to Hong Kong e-commerce items, with 81% of the relevant survey respondents having purchased such an item within the past 12 months.
In second place was Indonesia, with 73% of respondents having ordered a Hong Kong item online within the last year. Slightly below this, in third place, was the Philippines, with 69% of the country’s respondents having made a related purchase over the past 12 months.
In terms of age demographics, respondents aged 30-49 had the highest average spending per purchase.
Separately, an average of 76% of those 18-29 year-olds across all ASEAN-6 markets had purchased a Hong Kong-sourced item online within the past 12 months. Among the 30-49 segment, the corresponding figure fell marginally to 72%, before falling further – to 52% – for online shoppers aged 50 or above. Reassuringly, even in this older category, a slender majority still manifested a preference for buying from the city via an online channel.
Commenting on the significance of the survey, Irina Fan, Director of HKTDC Research, said: “It’s encouraging that the first study of its kind should show just how willing ASEAN consumers are to purchase Hong Kong brands and products via a variety of online channels. In line with our findings, Hong Kong SMEs should particularly bear in mind the high regard consumers in Thailand and Indonesia have for Hong Kong-sourced products.”
Ms Fan added: “In terms of product categories, it’s clearly particularly good news for Hong Kong companies in the consumer electronics sector, an area that has long been one of the city’s key strengths.”
Full report revealed at eTailingPulse The HKTDC is organising the MarketingPulse and eTailingPulse conferences at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre next Wednesday, 19 March. The full ASEAN e-Commerce opportunities: Insights on Consumer Behaviours and Positioning of Hong Kong Products report will be unveiled at an eTailingPulse panel discussion, where business leaders will share insights from their successful experiences in the ASEAN e-commerce market.
The panel is among nearly 30 sessions at the two Pulse events, which bring together more than 65 global elites from diverse industry sectors, including influential marketing experts, economists, retail giants, brand strategists, advertising and PR professionals and e-commerce leaders.
Themed Inspiring Possibilities, the events aim to turn visionary ideas into actionable strategies and spark cross-disciplinary collaboration. This year’s event will spotlight six key marketing topics: leveraging data and artificial intelligence (AI) to drive innovative marketing strategies; integrating art, music and culture into brand marketing to explore new frontiers; embracing neurodiversity to foster more inclusive marketing perspectives; opportunities in the ASEAN and halal markets; addressing the challenges and possibilities of global industry transformation in light of the rising trend of single-person households; and empowering the “she economy” through innovative AI solutions to enhance the market competitiveness of e-commerce platforms.
Attendees will have the opportunity to explore forward-thinking market dynamics, emerging trends, innovative marketing strategies and compelling success stories.
HKTDC support SMEs tapping into e-commerce The HKTDC has been supporting SMEs to tap into the tremendous business opportunities brought by the rapidly developing e-commerce market. The HKTDC Design Gallery online store will extend to Singapore and Malaysia in 2025/26, followed by Thailand in a subsequent phase. Hong Kong suppliers will be able to sell their products to the ASEAN region through this online channel in the form of cross-border e-commerce. The range of products to be offered in the initial stage includes gifts, housewares, bags, baby/kids’ products and eco-friendly products.
This year, the HKTDC is also launching a year-long programme called E-Commerce Express to address the pain points faced by local SMEs when developing cross-border e-commerce businesses in the mainland. The programme will involve the HKTDC, together with major e-commerce or social media platforms, arranging a series of thematic training seminars and research sharing sessions.
Appendix – E-commerce Easy: The E-commerce Easy initiative was set up by the Hong Kong SAR Government in July 2024 to help fund local businesses as they seek to serve potential mainland clients via a range of e-commerce channels. In the 2024 Policy Address, the Government announced it would expand the scheme to cover ASEAN-10 markets within 2025, with Hong Kong companies looking to access the bloc via online sales platforms eligible for subsidies of up to HK$1 million. – Methodology: HKTDC Research conducted an online survey of 1,846 online shoppers in June and July 2024 covering the six ASEAN-6 markets of Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Singapore. There were roughly 300 respondents from each country. Typically, respondents were aged 18 to 60, resided within selected major metropolitan areas, made online purchases at least once a month, and were mid- to high-annual income earners.
About HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.
Living in a highly-productive and high-performance society like Singapore does have its benefits – breeding a highly-competitive environment where efficiency is achieved, stability is maintained, and getting full value is often the name of the game. In Singapore, its citizens have accepted this as the status quo.
However, Singapore has also been found to be the most exhausted and sleep-deprived nation in the world, scoring 7.2 out of 10 on a fatigue scale, with only 44% of the population getting therecommended seven hours of sleep. As we mark International Women’s Day and World Sleep Day this March, research has shown that this hidden crisis of sleep deprivation disproportionately impacts women. The numbers expose a brutal truth:
37% of women report losing sleep due to hormone-related conditions (Sleep Foundation)
Beyond increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and depression, sleep deprivation launches a direct assault on women’s health and appearance. During sleep, the body’s natural repair mechanisms regenerate skin cells, produce collagen, and fight premature aging. When sleep is compromised, the consequences are profound:
Accelerated skin aging
Increased inflammation
Reduced skin cell turnover
Dull, tired complexion
LAC understands that addressing sleep is more than a wellness strategy – it’s a form of empowerment. Their comprehensive range tackles both internal sleep challenges and external skin restoration, supporting women’s holistic health.
LAC addresses this gap with its TriAction Sleep Formula, a supplement designed to support the natural sleep cycle through a unique triple-layer technology. The formula is engineered to release key sleep-supporting nutrients at different stages:
Pre-Sleep Phase: While still awake, the first layer works to calm the mind and body using a blend of Valerian Root Extract, Saffron Extract, Magnesium, and Melatonin, signaling that it’s time to unwind and sleep.
Transition to Sleep: After settling into bed, the second layer—with ingredients like L-Theanine and GABA—helps ease the transition into sleep, promoting a faster onset and more stable rest.
Sustained Rest: Throughout the night, the third layer gradually releases the same actives, reducing interruptions and helping to maintain a consistent sleep cycle. This controlled release is particularly beneficial for adjusting sleep patterns during travel or shifts in routine.
This multi-stage approach aims to help individuals manage common sleep disturbances, ultimately improving mood, reducing daytime fatigue, and supporting the body’s natural repair processes. It is also made with all natural ingredients, preventing over reliance or dependency.
Complementing the emphasis on quality sleep is the LAC Taut range, which focuses on protecting against premature skin aging through advanced collagen support.
This premium collagen drink delivers a potent 13,000mg of Rapid Delivery System (RDS) low molecular weight fish collagen per serving, sourced from deep-sea red snapper. It’s formulated to help restore, firm, and hydrate the skin while combatting Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs), which are associated with premature aging.
A high-intensity facial mask infused with hydrolysed collagen, squalane, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants. In just 7-10 minutes, it aims to enhance skin texture and facial contours, leaving the skin feeling smooth, supple, and lifted.
An ultra-lightweight face serum enriched with premium collagen and antioxidants. This serum is designed to hydrate intensively, repair the skin barrier, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promoting a more youthful complexion.
This March, we invite you to reclaim your rest and restore your vitality: Sleep is not a luxury. It’s your most powerful form of self-care. By integrating these products into a regular skincare regimen, alongside prioritising sufficient sleep, individuals can support their skin’s natural rejuvenation processes. This combined approach addresses both external care and internal health, reflecting LAC’s commitment to comprehensive wellness solutions.
Giftify, Inc. (NASDAQ:GIFT) (the “Company”), the owner and operator of CardCash.com and Restaurant.com, and a leader in the incentives and rewards industry, today announced the expansion of its CardCash.com platform into the high-margin sports retail sector, offering consumers smart saving solutions for sports fans to save on tickets, apparel and game-day essentials as part of the Company’s strategic growth initiative for 2025.
With the 2025 MLB season getting underway, fans are facing rising costs for tickets, gear, and game-day essentials. The average cost of attending a baseball game has climbed to $152 for a family of four, with premium seats seeing increases as high as 38.8%. But CardCash.com, a leading secondary gift card exchange operated by Giftify, is stepping up to help fans save.
By using discounted gift cards from StubHub, Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Fanatics, families can cut costs on tickets, jerseys, and game-day snacks.
For example, a family of four heading to a Yankees game this season, their tickets alone would cost over $300, but by paying with StubHub gift cards purchased at CardCash.com at an 11% discount, they save over $30. Grabbing team gear from MLB Shop? That’s another 11% saved.
Making Baseball More Affordable
“With rising ticket prices, fans are looking for ways to save without missing out on their favorite teams,” said Carol Rosenblum, Marketing Manager at CardCash.com. “By using our discounted gift cards, baseball lovers can cut costs by 10-20%, whether they’re buying tickets, upgrading their game-day outfits, or picking up tailgating gear.”
Spring Cleaning: Turn Unused Gift Cards into Game-Day Cash
The CardCash.com platform offers a comprehensive solution for sports fans: not only can they purchase discounted gift cards to save on upcoming expenses, but they can also monetize unused gift cards by exchanging them for cash or store credit—creating a complete financial ecosystem for sports enthusiasts. Just as fans engage in spring cleaning around their homes, CardCash encourages them to clear out their wallets and drawers of forgotten gift cards and transform that untapped value into memorable sports experiences.
“As MLB teams welcome fans back to stadiums across the nation, this is the perfect time for people to check their wallets, trade in unused gift cards, and put those funds toward experiences they’ll actually enjoy,” said Ketan Thakker, CEO of Giftify, Inc. “Why let old gift cards go to waste when they can help get you to the ballpark? This sports fan initiative represents a key component of our 2025 growth strategy to penetrate high-frequency consumer spending categories while building recurring engagement with our platform.”
About Giftify, Inc.
Giftify, Inc. is a pioneer in the incentive and rewards industry with a focus on retail, dining & entertainment experiences, as the owner and operator of leading digital platforms, CardCash.com and Restaurant.com. CardCash.com is a leading secondary gift card exchange platform, allowing consumers and retailers to realize value by buying and selling gift cards at various scales. Its Restaurant.com is the nation’s largest restaurant-focused digital deals brand. Restaurant.com and our Corporate Incentives division connect digital consumers, businesses and communities offering thousands of dining, retail and entertainment deals options nationwide at over 184,000 restaurants and retailers. Restaurant.com prides itself on offering the best deal, every meal. Our gift cards and restaurant certificates allow customers to save at thousands of restaurants across the country with just a few clicks.
Press Releases may include forward-looking statements. In particular, the words “believe,” “may,” “could,” “should,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” “propose,” “plan,” “intend,” and similar conditional words and expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Any statements made in this news release about an action, event or development, are forward-looking statements. Such statements are based upon assumptions that in the future may prove not to have been accurate and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Such statements are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the company. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Although the company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that its forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Investors are cautioned that any forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. The forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the date hereof. The company takes no obligation to update or correct its own forward-looking statements, except as required by law or those prepared by third parties that are not paid by the company. Statements in this press release that are not historical fact may be deemed forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Although Giftify, Inc. believes the expectations reflected in any forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, Giftify, Inc. is unable to give any assurance that its expectations will be attained. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations include the company’s ability identify a suitable business model for the corporation.
U.S. Polo Assn., the official brand of the United States Polo Association(USPA), proudly served as the Official Apparel Sponsor of the 2025 Dubai Polo Gold Cup for the second year in a row. The prestigious tournament was hosted at the iconic Al Habtoor Polo Club in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), from February 5-22, 2025.
U.S. Polo Assn.
In partnership with Aydinli Group, U.S. Polo Assn.’s brand partner in the Middle East, the classic, sport-inspired brand provided performance jerseys for multiple teams, branded apparel for all on-site staff, and gifts to the finalists. During the game’s fun-filled divot stomp, spectators also enjoyed a special giveaway of U.S. Polo Assn. branded caps.
The Dubai Polo Gold Cup was an unforgettable two-week tournament ending with an intense final game between two strong teams, the UAE Polo Team and Jehangiri Polo. Ultimately, the UAE Polo Team prevailed with a final score of 9-8, and their name will be etched into the Gold Cup trophy. The event offered a blend of the highest-rated polo in the UAE, along with international musical entertainment, global cuisines, and one-of-a-kind retail experiences to the thousands of spirited sports fans in attendance.
“U.S. Polo Assn. is thrilled to once again partner with the Dubai Polo Gold Cup as the Official Apparel Sponsor in this premier venue for polo in the UAE,” said J. Michael Prince, President and CEO of USPA Global, which manages the multi-billion-dollar U.S. Polo Assn. brand. “Dubai and the UAE region are key markets for our sport-inspired brand, and we are honored to participate in this iconic event by showcasing U.S. Polo Assn. to sports fans and consumers alike.”
The Dubai Polo Gold Cup was founded in 2009 by His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and has since become a cornerstone on the international polo calendar, comparable to major events in Argentina, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
“We are honored to represent U.S. Polo Assn. in the UAE, and the Dubai Polo Gold Cup is the perfect event to align our authentic sports brand with the prestigious sport of polo in Dubai,” said Seref Safa, Chairman of the Board of Aydinli Group, the Middle Eastern partner for U.S. Polo Assn. “Each year, this event showcases some of the finest polo teams and ponies in the world, providing a mix of sportsmanship and style for all attendees, making this a high-profile event in Dubai that’s not to be missed.”
Photo Credit: Margarita Crotto
About U.S. Polo Assn. and USPA Global U.S. Polo Assn. is the official brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), the largest association of polo clubs and polo players in North America, founded in 1890. 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. Historic deals with ESPN in the United States 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, NBA, and MLB, according to License Global. In addition, the sport-inspired brand is being recognized internationally with awards for global and digital 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.
USPA Global is a subsidiary of the USPA and manages the global, multi-billion-dollar U.S. Polo Assn. brand. Through its subsidiary, Global Polo Entertainment (GPE), USPA Global also manages Global Polo TV, which provides sports and lifestyle content. For more sports content, visit globalpolo.com.
About Aydinli Group Aydinli Group is the Middle Eastern and Eastern European partner for the global, multi-billion-dollar U.S. Polo Assn. brand. Aydinli Group adopts the principle of quality service and universal values, produces environmentally conscious products, and provides world-class, customer-oriented service. With more than 690 stores, 300 of which are abroad, and more than 7,500 employees, it is one of the largest apparel retailers in the region. Aydinli Group, which has operations in nearly 50 countries with U.S. Polo Assn., 10 countries with Pierre Cardin, and 8 countries with Cacharel, has license rights in 55 countries in total. For more information, visit aydinli.com.
Contact Information Stacey Kovalsky VP, Global PR and Communications skovalsky@uspagl.com +001.561.790.8036
Shannon Stilson VP, Sports Marketing & Media sstilson@uspagl.com +001.561.227.6994
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U.S. Polo Assn.
