Reach, a leading global Merchant of Record (MoR) solution, is proud to announce a strategic investment from Primus Capital that will help the company scale its operations, accelerate its aggressive product roadmap, and augment its existing world-leading payments, tax compliance, and fraud protection solutions for retail and SaaS businesses worldwide.
Reach Official Logo
Annual Gross Merchandise Volume (GMV) for Reach grew 95% year-over-year in Q4 2024 and the organization is primed to extend its leadership in the enterprise MoR market. The investment by Primus Capital will primarily be used to enhance support for enterprise businesses, further develop its ecommerce product mix, and expand its existing global entity network into additional in-demand markets.
“We’re thrilled to have Primus as a strategic partner as we continue to scale our solution for global merchants,” said Sam Ranieri, CEO of Reach. “This investment will allow us to strengthen our infrastructure, expand our international coverage, and empower our clients to unlock new markets and optimize cross-border operations with ease.”
According to Ron Hess, Managing Director at Primus Capital, investing in Reach came down to a strong belief in the company’s value. “We’ve built a relationship with Sam and his team over the past few years and have witnessed the return on investment realized by Reach’s customers. The company’s impressive growth is driven by its innovative approach to solving the pain points of global expansion for retail and digital businesses. This investment will help fuel the company’s efforts to continue delivering unparalleled value to enterprise customers in the face of the challenges of a globalized marketplace,” Hess said.
As a byproduct of this partnership, Reach is investing in new technology infrastructure and augmenting its team to support its evolving and rapidly growing customer base while concurrently developing its ecommerce product suite. The company’s expansion will further simplify cross-border transactions for its clients, which empowers businesses to focus on innovation while Reach handles the complexities of payments, tax, and fraud mitigation at scale.
Leveraging a Merchant of Record is essential for mid-market and enterprise businesses already active in cross-border ecommerce who need to unlock new levels of efficiency, revenue, and international performance. As businesses scale globally, managing local tax regulations and staying compliant with fluctuating tariffs and legal requirements becomes increasingly complex. An MoR simplifies this process by automating tax calculations and ensuring compliance across multiple markets, with much faster time to market than going alone.
“Given the current uncertainty surrounding international trade and cross-border sales, it’s critical for us to provide the most simple, robust, and complete global solution for our clients,” Ranieri said. “The investment from Primus will help us strengthen our position as a world leader in ecommerce while continuing to find innovative ways for our clients to navigate the complex financial and regulatory borders standing between them and their customers.”
RBC Capital Markets acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Reach on the transaction, and Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP and Taft Law acted as legal advisors. Goodwin Procter LLP acted as legal adviser to Primus
For more information about Reach’s solutions and upcoming initiatives, please visit www.withreach.com.
ABOUT REACH
Reach is the leading Merchant of Record (MoR) solution designed for mid-market and enterprise ecommerce retailers and SaaS businesses. Reach allows businesses to effortlessly activate global capabilities within the platforms they already use, optimizing payments, fraud prevention, tax compliance, and localized customer experiences – all with no new systems or complex integrations. Businesses can easily activate powerful global features, streamlining cross-border operations and reducing costs. Trusted by global brands, Reach helps improve transaction approval rates and unlock the full potential of existing systems, enabling businesses to scale internationally with ease.
Contact Information Andrew Cunningham Head of Marketing & Media marketing@withreach.com 15875745011
– Nearly 70% of exhibitors coming from outside Hong Kong – newly created zone spotlights creative gold jewellery
This year’s twin jewellery shows are bringing together some 4,000 exhibitors from more than 40 countries and regions
Nearly 70% of exhibitors are coming from outside Hong Kong, with an increase in the number of exhibitors from Japan and the UAE
In line with industry trends, the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show has introduced a Gold Jewellery Zone and also gathered affordable luxury jewellery, men’s/unisex jewellery and other distinctively designed products
More than 30 seminars, networking activities and parades will be organised to foster industry dialogue and exchange insights on the latest market trends
The two world-class jewellery shows organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council(HKTDC) will open in early March in the successful “two shows, two venues” format. The 11th Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show will be held at AsiaWorld-Expo from 2 to 6 March, showcasing a wide range of jewellery raw materials, while the 41st Hong Kong International Jewellery Show will be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai from 4 to 8 March, presenting a range of exquisite finished jewellery pieces. The twin shows will help exhibitors and buyers tap into global trade opportunities.
Sophia Chong, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: “This year’s twin jewellery shows are bringing together some 4,000 exhibitors from more than 40 countries and regions, of which nearly 70% are coming from outside Hong Kong. Among them, exhibitors from Japan, Spain, French Polynesia, the United Arab Emirates, Mexico and Lebanon are all expanding their presence at the fairs. The two shows are expected to attract more than 110 buyer missions, demonstrating the HKTDC’s strengths in creating a world-class jewellery trading platform for the industry and reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as an international jewellery sourcing and trading hub.”
Despite the various challenges facing the global jewellery market, the value of fine jewellery exported from Hong Kong to the United States rose by more than 10% year-on-year in 2024, while exports to the European Union, the Middle East and ASEAN rose by 6.5%, 3.8% and 2.6% respectively.
38 pavilions welcome global buyers The twin jewellery shows have received strong support from industry players around the world for many years. In 2025, the shows feature 38 geographic and industry pavilions from Mainland China, Taiwan, India, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Spain, Türkiye, United Kingdom, Israel, Brazil, Colombia and the United States. In terms of industry pavilions, the Asia Jewelry Culture Design and Crafts Association is joining the show for the first time, while the Tanzanite Foundation, Asia Pacific Creator Association and International Colored Gemstone Association are all returning. In addition, the Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association is once again setting up a pavilion together with the Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), featuring jewellery-making machinery and technologies. The twin shows are attracting buyers from across the globe, covering large jewellery retail chains and both luxury and affordable jewellery and designer brands. Exhibitors and buyers alike will enjoy bountiful opportunities for industry exchange and collaboration.
The HKTDC is always looking to optimise the sourcing experience for buyers worldwide through various initiatives. This year, special measures have been introduced to encourage more Muslim buyers to visit the shows, including providing shuttle buses to and from local mosques, offering a list of Muslim-friendly hotels and restaurants, and cooperating with the Hong Kong Tourism Board to arrange guided tours for Muslim buyers.
Creative designs in focus, Gold Jewellery Zone makes debut Trendy and innovative products can help manufacturers stand out in the market. The theme of this year’s twin jewellery shows is Symphony of Sparkles, likening gemstone carving to the arrangement of musical notes, embodying the beauty of creation. This year’s Designer Jewellery Galleria at the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show features exhibitors using filigree inlay technique, an almost-lost craft that is part of China’s intangible cultural heritage, to create fine designs. Among them are 18K gold wheat ears launched by Mainland China company Changzhou Yi’an Jewelry Co., Ltd (Booth: CEC 1CON-029) that won the Best Design Award in the 2019 Tiangong Awards. Many Hong Kong exhibitors are also using the shows to launch creative products, including Austy Lee Company Limited (Booth: CEC 1E-F32), which will introduce a snake-shaped necklace to mark the new lunar year, and Zuri Jewelry Company Limited (Booth: CEC 1E-C18), which is launching its “Panda and Bamboo” jewellery collection with cute designs modelled on An An and Ke Ke, the giant pandas in Hong Kong.
The International Jewellery Show is proud to introduce the Gold Jewellery Zone in 2025 as a new showcase for novel designs. Exhibitors include Malaysian jewellery company CHL Innovation Industries Sdn Bhd (Booth: CEC 3E-D15) which is launching a series of affordable luxury gold jewellery sets suitable for daily wear, including a durian pendant that stands out with its unique local characteristics.
With the goal of nurturing new design talents in the industry, the HKTDC had organised the International Jewellery Design Excellence (IJDE) Award and the 26th Hong Kong Jewellery Design Competition. The results will be announced at the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show with the winning designs going on display. In addition, the Young Jewellery Designer Arena has been added for this year’s show to spotlight the creativity and craftsmanship of up-and-coming designers.
Rare and precious treasures in the spotlight The two shows will continue to exhibit rare jewellery to attract buyers. At the International Jewellery Show, Hong Kong exhibitor Unique Brilliant Limited (Booth: CEC GH-C13) will showcase a pendant mounted with an extremely rare 40+ carat unheated Tanzanian ruby. At the Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show, American exhibitor Emco Gem (Booth: AWE 7-H01) will present high-quality Colombian emeralds ranging from 9 to 15 carats while Indian exhibitor Fine Star Jewellery & Diamond (Booth: AWE 5-D23) will display a fancy yellow diamond of over 30 carats. Hong Kong exhibitor HYT International HK Limited (Booth: AWE 9-A23) will exhibit a heart-shaped pink diamond weighing 1.5 carats from Australia.
Men’s and unisex jewellery and affordable jewellery are all becoming increasingly popular. This year, nearly 200 exhibitors will be showcasing men’s jewellery, including Hong Kong exhibitor Austy Lee Company Limited (Booth: CEC 1E-F32) which will present the Tsuruhime Sen no Odori Brooch made of 18K rose gold with antique materials. In the affordable luxury jewellery category, Hong Kong exhibitors – G S Jewellery (Mfy) Co. Limited (Booth: CEC 1A-E36), IAD Jewellery Limited (Booth: CEC 1C-A12) and Kayra Creation Limited (Booth: CEC 1C-F18) – will all be showcasing their daily wear lines.
30+ events explore hot topics such as sustainable development and AI More than 30 industry-related seminars and networking activities will be held during the twin jewellery shows, covering topics such as sustainable development, jewellery technology, identification technology and other new industry trends. ISO certification expert CK Cheung and Edward Johnson, Corporate Social Responsibility Director from British company GEMFIELDS, will explain the latest developments in ISO and ESG certification and analyse how these certifications set standards for the industry and help propel its sustainable development.
In the area of jewellery and identification technology, the shows will feature a series of seminars on design, craftsmanship and innovation. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) will explain the heat treatment of gemstones and introduce new identification services for emerald fillings. Gübelin Gem Lab will explain how to apply various breakthrough technologies to establish more consistent and reliable standards, including AI-driven “Gemtelligence” technology and the use of blockchain technology and physical tracking markers to enhance market transparency in helping dealers and consumers verify the traceability information of materials.
Combining online and offline services to boost sourcing efficiency This year’s twin jewellery shows will continue to use the EXHIBITION+ hybrid format. In addition to on-site procurement, the HKTDC’s AI-powered “Click2Match” will provide online business matching for exhibitors and buyers. Onsite buyers can use “Scan2Match” to scan exhibitors’ QR codes and continue discussions with exhibitors online during or after the show. To ease the buyer admission process, the HKTDC Marketplace App and the official websites of the two shows provide online verification functions. Buyers need only to register through these platforms and upload a photo and valid identification to obtain a verified eBadge for direct entry, greatly reducing queuing times for onsite registration and verification and enhancing sourcing efficiency.
To help buyers visit the two shows, free shuttle buses to and from AsiaWorld-Expo and the city (including the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai) will be arranged. For details, please refer to the fair website.
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.
Seasoned Finance Leader Brings 20+ Years of Expertise in Financial Strategy, M&A and Digital Transformation to Cleverbridge
Cleverbridge, a leading provider of ecommerce and billing solutions for global software and SaaS companies, today announced the appointment of Markus Scheuermann as Chief Financial Officer, effective as of April 1, 2025.
Markus Scheuermann
Scheuermann is a seasoned senior executive with over 20 years of experience in financial strategy, business development, M&A, and digital transformation within high-performing technology organizations. Most recently, he served as Chief Financial Officer at Thinkproject Group and has previously held key leadership roles at HolidayCheck Group, Hubert Burda Media, eBay, and McKinsey & Company. Markus will report directly to Wendi Sturgis, Cleverbridge CEO, and be part of an executive leadership team that includes CRO Kevin Feagan, CTO Radu Immenroth, and CHRO Alexander Brochier.
“I’m thrilled to join Cleverbridge at such a pivotal moment as we work toward becoming the industry’s highest-performing merchant of record platform,” said Scheuermann. “My focus is to build upon the company’s exceptionally strong financial position and profitable growth trajectory, positioning us for even greater market expansion as we continue to help our clients achieve their growth ambitions.”
Founded in 2005 in Cologne (Germany) and Chicago (Illinois, USA), Cleverbridge has grown to a global team of 300+ employees, setting new standards as a leading merchant of record (MoR) solution provider. Some of the world’s largest technology companies – including Red Hat, Dassault Systèmes, and Sony – trust Cleverbridge to process payments, manage subscriptions, and simplify the complexities of global ecommerce. In 2024, Cleverbridge achieved record growth, expanding its client portfolio across industries while maintaining 99% logo retention and 100% platform uptime.
“In Markus, we’ve gained not only an accomplished CFO but a visionary leader whose strategic expertise will propel Cleverbridge into its next phase of growth,” said Wendi Sturgis, Cleverbridge CEO. “With a proven track record of leading companies at scale, Markus brings the insight and experience needed to unlock new opportunities and drive our business forward. His leadership will be instrumental as we execute our strategic initiatives and expand our market presence.”
About Cleverbridge Cleverbridge is the all-in-one ecommerce platform for global subscription businesses. As a merchant of record (MoR), we consolidate the essential components of an ecommerce solution – including payments, subscription management, tax/VAT handling, and regulatory compliance – to help businesses offload operational work and automate digital transactions throughout the customer lifecycle. Since 2005, leading B2B and B2C technology companies across industries have trusted Cleverbridge to deliver frictionless buying experiences and optimize acquisition, expansion, and retention in over 240 countries and territories. Learn more at grow.cleverbridge.com.
U.S. Polo Assn., the official brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), the largest association of polo clubs and polo players in North America, is thrilled to announce its 135th Anniversary celebration, a milestone commemorating over a century of leadership in the sport of polo.
U.S. Polo Assn.
This historic year will be marked by a series of global events and a global brand campaign by the U.S. Polo Assn. brand, creating an unforgettable experience for sports fans and consumers worldwide. U.S. Polo Assn. will spearhead the anniversary campaign with activations in major markets, including North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. Consumers can look forward to exclusive in-store events, digital experiences, and collaborations with influencers and athletes, all celebrating the sport’s legacy and future.
As one of the oldest sports organizations in the United States, the USPA has long been a cornerstone of the global polo community. The campaign, led by the U.S. Polo Assn. brand, connects the sport’s legacy with a modern, vibrant twist that celebrates its global appeal.
“As the official brand of the USPA, U.S. Polo Assn.’s 135th Anniversary Campaign honors an important milestone for the sport of polo and unites our global licensees with a shared goal and brand message,” said J. Michael Prince, President and CEO of USPA Global, the company that manages and oversees the U.S. Polo Assn. brand. “We’re inviting consumers and sports fans worldwide to become a part of the rich legacy of the sport of polo and celebrate the history of the greatest story of sport and fashion coming together.”
Born to Play: Celebrating Heritage, Sport and Life Embracing the rich heritage of the sport of polo, the USPA’s 135th Anniversary celebration centers on the tagline “Born to Play.” This theme highlights the adrenaline and athleticism of polo, both on and off the field, and invites sports fans and consumers worldwide to become part of this storied legacy. From the players and horses to the competition and culture, polo awakens something deep within all of us, showcasing a sport that is as vibrant and thrilling as it is timeless. “Born to Play,” which is also paired with the brand’s Legacy Campaign featuring professional polo players and Brand Ambassadors alongside their families, will represent U.S. Polo Assn. across various digital and in-store platforms beyond 2025.
135th Anniversary Logo The custom-designed 135th Anniversary Logo encapsulates the rich history and distinctive character of the sport of polo, blending tradition with modern style. Drawing inspiration from the dynamic movements of the game, the logo incorporates the rare and powerful image of “hooked” polo mallets-an iconic defensive play that is a hallmark of the sport’s intensity and skill. This detail serves as an emblem of the strategy, precision, and history that defines the sport of polo, connecting the logo at its core.
The color palette of red, white, and blue, synonymous with the iconic U.S. Polo Assn. brand, remains central to the 135th Anniversary logo reinforcing the brand’s American roots while also symbolizing its global presence. These colors not only embody the patriotism and spirit of the United States but also serve as a universal emblem of excellence and integrity within the sport of polo. As a visual representation of 135 years of heritage, the logo will be prominently featured across all U.S. Polo Assn. activations, digital platforms, and retail stores throughout 2025, creating a cohesive and lasting message to resonate with consumers and fans alike.
135th Anniversary Limited-Edition Product For the 135th Anniversary, U.S. Polo Assn. has launched a Limited-Edition Collection that proudly celebrates the rich polo heritage and the legacy of the sport. The collection showcases the brand’s classic red, white, and blue signature colors, enhanced with exclusive 135th Anniversary graphics, celebratory gold and silver accents, and refined design details and fabrications.
The Collection is focused on iconic core styles, such as the timeless polo shirt, while incorporating distinctive 135th Anniversary branding elements and premium trims. This collection features both apparel and accessories, offering customers a complete 135th Anniversary experience. Each piece features a limited-edition hangtag, designed to commemorate this milestone and emphasize the year-long global celebration. Through this collection, U.S. Polo Assn. honors its storied past and proudly shares our passion for the sport and the brand with customers around the world.
The World Tour: A Year of Celebrations Join the Global Celebration! Stay tuned for updates and event details by visiting uspoloassnglobal.com or following us on social media @USPoloAssn and @GlobalPolo. Whether you’re a lifelong polo enthusiast, new to the sport, or simply love the U.S. Polo Assn. brand – we invite you to join us in celebrating 135 years of polo excellence!
The year-long festivities will include:
Grand Tournaments and Exhibitions: Spectacular polo games hosted at iconic venues, including high goal polo and championship tournaments at the iconic USPA National Polo Center (NPC) in Palm Beach County, Florida, which is the sport’s premier polo destination, and an exhibition game at Jaipur Polo Grounds in Delhi, India.
In-Store Global Celebrations and Parties: From Mumbai to Miami, Istanbul to Delhi, Florence to London, among other major cities around the world, there will be celebrations for sports fans and brand consumers.
Exclusive Fashion Launches: The U.S. Polo Assn. brand will unveil its Limited-Edition Anniversary Collection, merging timeless style with contemporary design inspired by the sport’s heritage. With elements like the 135th Anniversary Logo and unique styling, this timeless collection is one to collect to show your polo spirit. Custom 135th Anniversary apparel will also be available at USPA Shop onsite and online in March.
Community Engagement Events and Fan Activations: Meet-and-greets with players, and family-friendly activities designed to engage fans of all ages. Fans will have the opportunity to join in on the celebration through different on-site activations, such as photo moments with brand Instagram frame or with the life-size 135th Anniversary backdrop, as well as exclusive anniversary wine and Field X Fashion magazine that’s gifted in the MVP Lounge at the USPA National Polo Center.
Broadcast Partnerships: Championship finals and special episodes of the award-winning show Breakaway, produced by Global Polo Entertainment (GPE), will air on ESPN and Star Sports platforms, reaching millions of households and bringing the excitement of polo to a global audience. U.S. Polo Assn. will also celebrate the anniversary story through the Gauntlet of Polo game broadcasts including the most prestigious U.S. Open Polo Championships®, airing on ESPN News and ESPN2 as well as on the brand’s owned sports media entity, Global Polo.
Honoring 135 Years of Excellence First played in the U.S. in 1876, polo has been affectionately known as “The Sport of Kings.” Inspired by games in England, the sport’s popularity led to the establishment of the USPA in 1890 to create rules and regulations. Today, the USPA continues its mission of promoting polo, supporting players, and advancing equine welfare, while celebrating its heritage with a modern, global perspective.
“This 135th Anniversary of the USPA is not just about celebrating our history; it’s about building the future,” said Stewart Armstrong, Chairman of the USPA. “We’re excited to connect with our global sport and brand fans through unique experiences while showcasing the authenticity and vibrancy of the sport of polo here in Palm Beach County at the USPA National Polo Center and around the world all year long.”
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.
As the new year gets started, small businesses owners are gearing up for the year to come. To help businesses get started early on to drive their sales growth throughout the year, GoDaddy offers a suite of AI-powered tools designed to help small businesses get found online, streamline e-commerce, optimize marketing strategies, and boost customer engagement in a competitive market.
A New Year, A New Opportunity
As 2025 gets started, businesses have an opportunity to prepare themselves to make the most of digital opportunities to help their business grow. Small business owners are shown to be more open to using artificial intelligence where they believe it will help impact their businesses. GoDaddy’s Entrepreneurship survey global results showed that 68% said they will use artificial intelligence in marketing and 55% said they would use it in business planning and strategy. GoDaddy Airo™, an AI-powered experience, is designed to save small business owners time in establishing their online presence and attract new customers by realizing the benefits of using AI technologies to help their business be more efficient and drive growth.
Build a Strong Digital Presence for 2025
As businesses transition into the new year, setting a solid digital strategy is crucial. Having a professional website tailored for a business can help to raise business visibility and online reach as more people go online first to check where to eat, where to shop and where to visit. With GoDaddy Airo’s customizable experience included with any new domain purchase, along with a new domain, a business can then instantly build a website, logo and more.
Additionally, GoDaddy’s digital marketing tool allows businesses to create personalized, targeted marketing campaigns. Businesses can engage with customers by offering exclusive discounts, promoting limited time offers, and creating festive promotions to help drive new customer conversions.
GoDaddy’s SEO tools help businesses optimize their websites for local search, ensuring that they rank higher on search engines and attract more potential customers. These tools can help businesses directly connect with their target audience and integrate with driving sales via social channels, which when integrated together with a website, strengthens a business’ overall digital presence.
Tailored Promotion Strategies for Businesses
Holiday seasons are often a key period for businesses to connect with customers to help drive sales and build revenue. GoDaddy’s tools are designed to help local businesses tap into the full potential of shopping seasons during the year, including peak shopping times. GoDaddy Websites + Marketing with online store makes it easy for businesses to set up an online store as a part of their website with localized payment options, multi-currency support, and a user-friendly design. This enables businesses to cater to diverse audiences and meet their customers’ needs throughout the year and especially during busy festive periods.
“With increased interest in building websites and selling online, it’s important for businesses to recognize their specific customer needs,” says Selina Bieber, Vice President for International Markets at GoDaddy. “The GoDaddy Airo AI-powered experience, helps small businesses get online quickly with a professional website and integrates with social media platforms, helping small business owners create a digital presence without spending hours working on it,” she adds.
Leverage Data with Analytics to Drive Results
Understanding customer behavior and trends can be key to successful customer engagement strategies. GoDaddy’s website analytics offer valuable insights, helping businesses track user activity, measuring campaign performance, and adjust strategies in real-time. By using these insights, business owners can optimize their websites and promotional offers to better cater to their audience’s needs.With GoDaddy’s digital tools and solutions, businesses can build a robust digital presence while also gain efficiencies by streamlining their operations by automating invoicing, managing inventory, and offering a mobile-friendly shopping experience. These tools allow entrepreneurs to focus on engaging with their customers and growing their business, while GoDaddy supports the technical aspects of presenting their digital presence.
About GoDaddy
GoDaddy helps millions of entrepreneurs globally start and scale their businesses. People come to GoDaddy to name their idea, build a website and logo, sell their products and services, and accept payments. GoDaddy Airo™, the company’s AI-powered experience, makes growing a small business faster and easier by helping them to get their idea online in minutes, drive traffic and boost sales. GoDaddy’s expert guides are available 24/7 to provide assistance. To learn more about the company, visit www.GoDaddy.com.
U.S. Polo Assn., the official brand of the United States Polo Association(USPA), celebrates the 2025 United States Winter Polo Season and the 135th Anniversary of the USPA, as the Official Sponsor of the USPA National Polo Center (NPC). Along with that distinction comes exclusive naming rights to Field One as the U.S. Polo Assn. Stadium Field, Field One’s game scoreboard, and Field Two signage. Regarded as one of the world’s premier facilities for the sport of polo, NPC features even more new and exciting branded updates for the thousands of fans who will visit this world-class destination in 2025.
The USPA National Polo Center and U.S. Polo Assn. are proud to unveil new navy and white sponsorship signage surrounding the U.S. Polo Assn. Stadium Field, an expanded asado grill area for pregame food and beverage with U.S. Polo Assn. lounge chairs, as well as exciting updates to the U.S. Polo Assn. MVP Lounge. Located in the Pavilion, the MVP Lounge is home to the luxurious Sunday Polo Brunch, where first-class dining, champagne, and branded gifts, including the limited edition 135th Anniversary U.S. Polo Assn. rosé wine and the U.S. Polo Assn. global magazine Field X Fashion, are presented to event attendees on the action-packed sidelines. Some of the 2025 NPC sponsors alongside U.S. Polo Assn. include ESPN, BMW, 4ocean, and Trubar.
Another exciting renovation for fans to enjoy throughout the season is the new USPA Shop located near the Ticket Office by the entry to Field One. This elevated shopping experience is filled with rich polo heritage and fashion, boasting a diverse curated USPA Global Collection of sport-inspired and luxury merchandise. At the heart of the USPA Shop stands the Halo, a 360-degree circular screen that serves as the centerpiece of the store. Derived from the Greek word for “light,” the Halo illuminates the action and excitement of polo, displaying in-store the most captivating moments from the field. This iconic feature embodies the spirit of the game and creates a dynamic focal point, connecting the rich tradition of polo with the innovative experience of the USPA Shop.
Included in the collection is The Polo Club at NPC, our exclusive sport-luxury line with limited-edition pieces crafted from heritage fabrics such as linen, cashmere, and mercerized cotton. For athletes and polo enthusiasts, USPA Pro delivers authentic jerseys and the performance Pro Whites worn by the best players in the sport. The majority of this special merchandise is only available at this flagship NPC location, which is open to the public on Sundays during the polo season of Dec. 29, 2024 – April 30, 2025, from 1-6 p.m.
“Through these incredible new brand activations, we continue to highlight the heritage of U.S. Polo Assn. and bridge the authentic connection between our classic, sport-inspired brand and the exciting sport of polo,” 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. “In addition, we have once again elevated the polo experience for sports fans at the USPA National Polo Center here in Palm Beach County this season to encourage both long-time and new fans of the sport to spend more of their Sundays through April 2025 at our polo fields.”
The USPA National Polo Center (NPC), the epicenter of winter polo, proudly hosts illustrious global polo events along with some of the most prestigious North American high-goal tournaments. Sponsored by U.S. Polo Assn., tournaments that captivate live audiences at NPC, as well as national and international viewers on ESPN, include the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship®, C.V. Whitney Cup®, the USPA Gold Cup®, and culminate with the U.S. Open Polo Championship®, long considered the preeminent polo event in the U.S. Tickets for the 2025 polo season are now available for purchase on the NPC website.
“In our 135th anniversary year, the USPA is prepared to offer an outstanding polo season filled with intense competition driven by many of the best players in the world, held on immaculately groomed playing fields and supported by a growing international fan base,” said Stewart Armstrong, Chairman of the USPA. “Our continued improvements are yet another reason why the USPA National Polo Center is considered one of the most prestigious polo facilities in the world.”
“We can’t wait for players, fans, and polo enthusiasts to join us in Wellington to celebrate the game and 135 years of polo in the U.S.,” Armstrong added.
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.
Contact Information Stacey Kovalsky VP Global PR and Communications skovalsky@uspagl.com 001-954-673-1331
Sneha Mahant Director, Marketing U.S. Polo Assn. India at Arvind Fashions Limited sneha.mahant@arvindfashions.com +91 9343897011
The Indian New Year (Harvest Month) celebrations on 19 January, 2025 united migrant workers and locals in a day-long program, filled with joy, cultural performances, and community spirit. Proudly presented by Mett.AI, the event was organized in association with the Indian High Commission, Ministry of Manpower, and Assurance, Care and Engagement (ACE) and took place at the Kranji Recreation Centre.
Over 50 local talented artists, along with 2000 migrant workers, delivered electrifying performances, showcasing spectacular cultural acts that reflect the vibrancy of the Indian harvest season. This grand event was made possible by the dedication of more than 120 passionate volunteers, who came together to turn this vision into reality.
Present for the event were Mrs. Pooja M. Tillu, Deputy High Commissioner, and Mr. Tung Yui Fai, Chief, Assurance, Care and Engagement (ACE) Group of the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Obayashi and Sian Chay proudly supported the event as Gold Sponsors, with Lulu Money joining as the esteemed Silver Sponsor. The celebrations promised an array of captivating highlights to engage and inspire attendees. The event was further enriched by the generous contributions of the Red Cross Society, Migrant Workers Centre, Google, POSB, and Singtel, along with outstanding support from local communities. The wellness program was expertly led by globally renowned organizations such as The Art of Living and the Isha Foundation. Attendees enjoyed a delightful culinary experience, with delicious meals thoughtfully prepared by KRSNA free meals and Balaji Vegetarian Restaurant.
Attendees immersed themselves in authentic harvest-themed activities, including the traditional Pongal celebration and a lively cattle show, offering a unique connection to rich cultural traditions. To further enhance the experience, complimentary lunch, snacks, goodie bags, and refreshing sugarcane juice was provided to all attendees.
Above all, this event marked a powerful celebration of unity, fostering stronger bonds between migrant workers and the local community. This initiative exemplifies the spirit of gratitude, inclusion, and cultural pride, which offered attendees a memorable experience as they welcome 2025 together.
High Commission Of India wishes everyone a great year ahead and expressed, “ This event presents a remarkable opportunity to collaborate and create an unforgettable experience for fellow migrant workers and all the attendees. Together, we can ensure its resounding success and showcase the synergy of our efforts.”
Ganesh Somwanshi, Founder and event presented, Mett.AI, reflects, “The world is inspired by Singapore’s visionary approach to cultural harmony and inclusion. This event is more than a celebration—it reflects the nation’s commitment to equality, cross-cultural understanding, and community development. By honoring the contributions of migrant workers and uniting diverse cultures, we aim to co-create an inspiring experience that embodies Singapore’s ethos and leaves a lasting impact on everyone involved.”
Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder, The Art Of Living shares, “Let me wish you all a very happy new year. This program, organized by Mett.AI and supported by the Indian High Commission and Ministry Of Manpower, hopes to bring more celebration and enthusiasm. We need to intigrate with the local culture, and Singapore is a country that believes in inclusivity. It’s an example of how the world should be Free, prosperous, healthy, and harmonious.”
Arun K , Lulu Money Singapore, adds, “The event organized by the Indian High Commission, Singapore, was a resounding success, and we’re delighted to have been a part of it. We Lulu Money as a financial institution, we’re committed to supporting migrant workers, and this event was a testament to the power of collaboration and community. We’d like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the team at the Indian High Commission Singapore and Mett.Ai for their outstanding efforts in making this event a success. We look forward to many more successful events that uplift and support migrant workers.”
About Mett.AI
Mett.AI is driven with a passion for creating meaningful and impactful community-focused social initiatives. Specializing in marketing for purpose driven brands and conceptualising grassroot events, we craft campaigns that amplify social causes, bridge cultural divides, and celebrate the power of human connection. We are a bunch of passionate marketers. Learn more at www.mettai.world
– Supporting local SMEs to develop in the mainland e-commerce market
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) has kickstarted the second edition of the Hong Kong Shopping Festival with seminars on the mainland e-commerce market, addressing the pain points of local SMEs to help them build a stronger business foundation
The seminars cover practical topics such as strategies for selling through online shopping platforms, commonly used payment tools, building an effective fan base, collaboration plans with influencers, marketing skills and live-streaming production
One-on-one consultancy services will also be offered to local SMEs, with mainland e-commerce or online marketing experts advising on how to build suitable marketing strategies
With e-commerce continuing to take a stronger hold globally, Mainland China has emerged as the clear market leader, providing enormous opportunities for Hong Kong’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). To help these companies seize new opportunities and develop their e-commerce capabilities in the mainland, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) has launched the second edition of the Hong Kong Shopping Festival by rolling out expert-ledseminars focusing specifically on the mainland e-commerce market. The seminars cover practical topics such as online shopping platform operation strategies and features, commonly used payment tools, the effective building of a fan base, collaboration plans with influencers, marketing skills and live-streaming production. One-on-one consultancy services are also being provided to help SMEs get the latest information and enhance their competitiveness, helping them tap into the rapidly changing mainland e-commerce market.
Stephen Liang, Assistant Executive Director of the HKTDC, said that e-commerce continues to develop rapidly and is now a key driving force for global trade and economic growth. The HKTDC has been supporting government policies by promoting business digital transformation, encouraging local SMEs to embrace e-commerce and offering various activities to support them through the business transition that is required.
“In order to deepen Hong Kong businesses’ understanding of mainland e-commerce platforms and gain practical experience, the HKTDC is holding the second edition of the Hong Kong Shopping Festival in August, which this year includes newly launched seminars with marketing experts providing practical knowledge relating to e-commerce in the mainland,” Mr Liang said. “This will give local SMEs a better understanding of e-commerce operations and help them formulate strategies appropriate to their products and brands, laying a solid foundation for entering the e-commerce sector. Additionally, one-on-one consultancy services will be offered, with mainland e-commerce or online marketing experts advising local SMEs on market development strategies that can help to promote their particular products or brands.”
Mr Liang added that trade relations between Hong Kong and the mainland are especially close, giving local SMEs a great advantage in terms of expanding into the mainland e-commerce market. “According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics, national online retails sales for 2024 were RMB15.5 trillion, up 7.2% compared to 2023. The mainland leads the way in the world’s online retail market, which underscores the huge business potential for Hong Kong’s SMEs.”
Many local companies struggle to create promotion plans for their quality brands and products that address the preferences of their target customers, largely because they have not fully understood how the mainland e-commerce market operates. Some SMEs also face operational challenges such as pricing strategies, inventory management and the terms of collaboration with influencers, preventing them from fully capturing the opportunities presented by e-commerce. The newly launched HKTDC seminars directly address the major difficulties faced by local SMEs in the e-commerce realm. Two seminars have already been held, one in December and one last week, in which experts shared insights on the mainland’s e-commerce market profile and provided practical guidance in areas such as legal compliance, specific platform requirements and common pitfalls, receiving an enthusiastic response from participating companies.
Second edition of the Hong Kong Shopping Festival returns in August The HKTDC will organise the second Hong Kong Shopping Festival in August 2025, aiming to help SMEs seize e-commerce opportunities in the mainland. The festival is divided into four parts, including the newly added seminars and one-on-one consultancy services mentioned above and the return of the popular Discount Month and live-streaming e-commerce sessions from last year. Given the diversity of online marketing methods in the mainland, there are different ways for SMEs to increase brand exposure other than live-streaming sales. The second Hong Kong Shopping Festival will introduce customised marketing and channel services, such as incorporating more channels through “planting seeds” strategies. This will allow participating local SMEs to choose the most suitable services based on their product features, helping them gain a deeper understanding of marketing methods in the mainland e-commerce market.
More details on the services being made available through the Hong Kong Shopping Festival will be announced by the HKTDC in due course.
In addition, the HKTDC Digital Academy and Design Gallery’s (DG) cross-border e-commerce shops on Taobao and JD International have been offering comprehensive support to Hong Kong SMEs to leverage diverse e-commerce and digital marketing channels to explore mainland opportunities. The DG’s network of 70 physical sales outlets in the mainland serve as an ideal platform to promote Hong Kong brands in the region. Meanwhile, the HKTDC’s DG Studio programme helps to connect local businesses with physical retailers and e-commerce platforms in the ASEAN region.
Websites – Pre-registration for the mainland e-commerce seminar on 27 February: https://bit.ly/4hdhELO – Details and registration for the second Hong Kong Shopping Festival: https://bit.ly/4h1FpX2
Media enquiries Please contact the HKTDC’s Communication & Public Affairs Department: HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department: Katy Wong Tel: (852) 2584 4524 Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.org
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.
Sparkline, a leading digital analytics consultancy in Southeast Asia, is proud to announce its upcoming webinar, “Unlocking E-Commerce Success with Google Analytics 4”, designed to help marketers and e-commerce professionals harness the full potential of Google Analytics 4 (GA4). Taking place on 15 January 2025, this transformative session is tailored to empower businesses with advanced analytics strategies that enhance user journeys and maximize ROI.
Why Google Analytics 4 is a Game-Changer for Marketers
As digital marketing trends evolve, GA4 emerges as an essential tool for businesses aiming to stay ahead in an increasingly data-driven environment. With its enhanced capabilities in tracking user behavior across multiple platforms, GA4 provides deeper insights into the customer journey, enabling marketers and e-commerce managers to:
Streamline Tracking: Simplify and centralize tracking mechanisms for cross-platform interactions.
Boost Engagement: Identify key touchpoints to foster better user engagement.
Optimize ROI: Make data-backed decisions that translate into tangible business outcomes.
In the era of first-party data, GA4’s emphasis on privacy-centric analytics ensures businesses remain compliant while delivering meaningful insights that drive growth.
Webinar Details
Join Sparkline’s esteemed experts for an engaging and insightful session:
The webinar will feature two industry experts who bring extensive experience in analytics and customer success:
Timothy Paul – Analytics & Technical Integration Consultant at Sparkline
Nur Raihana – Customer Success Manager at Sparkline
Both speakers will provide actionable strategies and practical insights tailored to the unique challenges of the e-commerce sector.
What Will be Covered
Attendees will gain access to:
Advanced GA4 techniques to optimize every stage of the customer journey—from discovery to conversion.
Tools to enhance engagement and improve tracking accuracy.
Data-driven approaches to maximize ROI and drive sustainable growth.
About Sparkline
Since its founding in 2013, Sparkline has been at the forefront of digital analytics in Southeast Asia. Headquartered in Singapore, the consultancy specializes in empowering businesses with practical, scalable solutions to navigate the complexities of today’s digital landscape. As a pioneering partner of Google’s Analytics Suite, Sparkline leverages its decade-long expertise to drive digital maturity, enhance organizational capabilities, and foster data-driven innovation.
Through tailored consulting, training, and cutting-edge technology solutions, Sparkline partners with Fortune 500 companies and regional leaders to optimize customer experiences and achieve measurable growth. By championing first-party data strategies and streamlining digital processes, Sparkline helps businesses thrive in a competitive e-commerce environment.
AI Agents, Customer-Led Interactions And Other Defining Trends Take Center Stage in CleverTap’s 2025 Customer Engagement Trend Predictions
CleverTap, the all-in-one customer engagement platform, has published a report on the top five trends that will shape the marketing and customer engagement space in 2025. It provides an analysis of the future of the customer engagement and retention landscape, offering insights into the strategies companies are expected to adopt in the upcoming year.
With the initial euphoria of GenAI waning out in just a year, organizations are in the midst of conversations about its tangible business value and outcomes. As AI transitions from being a disruptor to an enabler in 2025, here are some key customer engagement and retention trends that are sure to make an impact in 2025.
1. From Push to Pull: Generative AI-driven Wave of Customer Interactions With GenAI’s mass adoption in 2024, communication has moved from brand-led to customer-led. Industries saw a shift in their customers using queries as their primary medium to interact with the brand. 2025 will further solidify this trend from brand-driven click and swipe-based interactions (push) to user-driven, prompt-based dynamic, conversational experiences (pull) powered by GenAI. While the number of touchpoints for marketers will be reduced, the quality of exchange will become more important once businesses understand how to optimize it. The rise of GenAI will continue to bring high efficiency, enabling brands to gain real-time insights and feedback, and empowering them to make swift improvements.
2. Personalization vs Privacy: Navigating a Balanced Approach Personalization is the norm for marketers. However, for today’s customers, hyper-personalisation only works when executed contextually and transparently. Marketers therefore will have to take a privacy-first approach while crafting meaningful experiences. Moving forward, investment in mechanisms for first-party and zero-party data collection will be vital, along with strict adherence to privacy regulations. By prioritizing transparency and safeguarding user data, businesses can foster deeper trust and loyalty among their customers.
3. Martech’s Evolution from a Fixed Tech Stack to a Living Cartography The Martech landscape is changing rapidly to meet new demands and most businesses still operate with rigid and fragmented tech stacks consisting of traditional siloed tools. This poses a challenge for marketers as the failure of one tool can create a domino effect causing problems in the entire stack. To address this, the concept of “living cartography” holds immense promise. Unlike traditional stacks, this concept envisions a dynamic, interconnected ecosystem where tools adapt and evolve in real-time. This approach fosters seamless data exchange and reduces the risk of system-wide failures by minimizing dependencies across tools. For marketers, this shift means greater agility in meeting the growing demand of ever-changing customer preferences.
4. The Rise of AI Agents AI agents are the next evolution in the AI landscape, poised to grow significantly this year. Their value lies in the ability to act beyond basic response mechanisms, driving smarter interactions. Companies will focus on AI agent functionalities to analyze real-time sentiments and tailor recommendations for customers while also providing 24/7 multi-lingual support. From a business standpoint, the use case will include boosting operational efficiency and improving decision-making. Eventually, we will see AI clones of marketers for processes like customer support, and sales interactions. AI copilots will enable businesses to get a competitive edge by automating tasks and optimizing workflows.
5. Customer Retention over Acquisition The current economic and geopolitical situation alongside a shift in customer priorities has exacerbated the challenge of acquiring new customers, making the process more expensive as well. Companies have recognized the value of customer loyalty as opposed to the “growth at any cost” outlook and the industry is now focussing on customer retention as a strategic priority. In addition to hyper-personalization, brands will continue to innovate their loyalty programs and incentives to meet customer expectations.
Anand Jain, Co-founder and Chief Product Officer, CleverTap said, “AI’s promise in marketing will truly come alive in 2025 – where it will transition from being a mere disruptor to a trusted enabler, unlocking authentic, customer-driven engagement. As brands navigate this new paradigm, success will come down to building genuine connections and striking a healthy balance between personalization and privacy, all while staying adaptable in the face of customer demands. At CleverTap, we remain committed to guiding businesses through these shifts, empowering them to advance their capabilities and drive meaningful, enduring customer relationships.”
Click here to download the report, The Customer Engagement Crystal Ball: Top Trends to Watch Out for in 2025.
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, Singapore, Vietnam, and Jakarta.
Forward-Looking Statements Some of the statements in this press release may represent CleverTap’s belief in connection with future events and may be forward-looking statements, or statements of future expectations based on currently available information. CleverTap cautions that such statements are naturally subject to risks and uncertainties that could result in the actual outcome being absolutely different from the results anticipated by the statements mentioned in the press release.
Factors such as the development of general economic conditions affecting our business, future market conditions, our ability to maintain cost advantages, uncertainty with respect to earnings, corporate actions, client concentration, reduced demand, liability or damages in our service contracts, unusual catastrophic loss events, war, political instability, changes in government policies or laws, legal restrictions impacting our business, impact of pandemic, epidemic, any natural calamity and other factors that are naturally beyond our control, changes in the capital markets and other circumstances may cause the actual events or results to be materially different, from those anticipated by such statements. CleverTap does not make any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or updated or revised status of such statements. Therefore, in no case whatsoever will CleverTap and its affiliate companies be liable to anyone for any decision made or action taken in conjunction.
For more information: SONY SHETTY Director, Communications, CleverTap +91 9820900036 sony@clevertap.com
