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ToolsGroup Recognized as a Leader in the SPARK Matrix for Intelligent Retail Pricing & Promotion Optimization by Quadrant Knowledge Solutions

ToolsGroup

ToolsGroup, a global leader in retail and supply chain planning and optimization software, is proud to announce to has been named a technology leader in the in the SPARK Matrix™ analysis of Intelligent Retail Pricing and Promotion Optimization (IRP&PO) by Quadrant Knowledge Solutions (QKS). The Quadrant Knowledge Solutions SPARK Matrix TM: Intelligent Retail Pricing & Promotion Optimization (IRP&PO), Q4, 2023 includes a detailed analysis of global market dynamics, major trends, vendor landscape, and competitive positioning. The study provides competitive analysis and ranking of the leading IRP&PO vendors in the form of its SPARK Matrix. It gives users strategic information to evaluate vendor capabilities, competitive differentiation, and market position. According to Saad F. Shaikh, Analyst at Quadrant Knowledge Solutions, “ToolsGroup’s comprehensive retail pricing solutions utilize advanced analytics to provide retailers with a holistic view of pricing and markdown strategies and assist retailers in managing and automating pricing throughout the product lifecycle. ToolsGroup’s AI-driven engine analyzes complex data at granular levels such as the combination of customer, product, location, and price point, in real-time to generate accurate demand forecasts and provide optimal price recommendations to retailers that maximize revenue. Furthermore, the company’s solutions provide a centralized space to plan promotional activities and execute effective promotions that maximize ROI.” This announcement follows ToolsGroup’s recent acquisition of Evo, a leading developer of artificial intelligence solutions for business performance optimization, with customers such as Decathlon and Benetton already reaping the benefits. JustEnough, a long-established software leader in retail and already a leader in dynamic planning, now applies Evo’s non-linear optimization, quantum learning, and advanced prescriptive analytics to enhance its retail planning and execution processes and results. According to Fabrizio Fantini, VP Product Strategy at ToolsGroup and founder at Evo, “This recognition reflects our continued momentum in developing sophisticated retail solutions that drive real-world results. JustEnough, ToolsGroup’s dynamic end-to-end retail planning and execution suite, enables organizations to overcome complexity and marketplace challenges while still satisfying customer demand. By enabling real-time decisions underpinned by Evo’s responsive AI engine, we help retailers automate and optimize pricing and promotions – protecting margins, eliminating waste, and improving efficiency for maximum ROI.” “ToolsGroup is thrilled to be named a top technology leader in our second consecutive retail SPARK Matrix this year,” said ToolsGroup CEO, Inna Kuznetsova. “As retailers strive for high profit margins, excess inventory remains a challenge – especially during the post-holiday season. Our AI-powered price optimization tools analyze and convert size, color, model, and location data into optimal pricing recommendations. These insights, combined with our inventory optimization and stock rebalancing functions, help retailers satisfy demand while improving margins and minimizing waste.” Additional Resources: ● Want to learn more? Come meet ToolsGroup at NRF 2024, Booth #3948. Save your meeting slot today. ● Download the SPARK Matrix report HERE. ● Learn more about Evo’s responsive AI HERE. ● Read more about ToolsGroup’s industry accolades HERE. About Quadrant Knowledge Solutions Quadrant Knowledge Solutions is a global advisory and consulting firm focused on helping clients as the strategic knowledge partner in achieving business transformation goals with Strategic Business and Growth Advisory Services. Quadrant’s research and consulting deliverables are designed to provide comprehensive information and strategic insights for helping clients formulate growth strategies to survive and thrive in ever-changing business environments. For more available research, visit: https://quadrant-solutions.com/market-research/ About ToolsGroup ToolsGroup’s innovative AI-powered solutions enable retailers, distributors, and manufacturers to navigate through supply chain uncertainty. Our retail and supply chain planning suites empower a new level of intelligent decision making and unlock powerful business improvements in forecast accuracy, service levels, and inventory - delighting customers and achieving financial and ESG KPIs. Stay in touch with ToolsGroup on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, or visit www.toolsgroup.com. Contact Details Meir Kahtan +1 917-864-0800 mkahtan@rcn.com Quadrant Knowledge Solutions Mr. Ajinkya Ingle +1 978-605-1066 ajinkya@quadrant-solutions.com Company Website https://www.toolsgroup.com

December 12, 2023 08:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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BEST 3 STEP WINTER BEAUTY ROUTINE

Flora Mirabilis

Simplify and destress your cold-weather beauty routine with Flora Mirabilis (Latin for the wondrous flower). The cult-favorite line created by LA-based holistic esthetician Jordan LaFragola offers the most effective 3 step skincare routine that simplifies, destresses, and makes your routine more economical. The only three products you need for beautiful skin- perfect for travel and gifting! STEP ONE: CLEANSING CLAY is a rich, creamy blend of oils and clay that deep cleanses without drying skin out. Goes on like a cream and emulsifies to a silky lather with water, washing clean and leaving skin soft, smooth, and perfectly cleansed. Linoleic acid-rich carrier oils support healthy barrier function, decreasing moisture loss and nourishing the skin. Essential oils rich in terpenes are anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and detoxifying to purify the skin. Kaolin, the mildest of clays, does not pull oil from the skin and instead gently removes surface impurities, making it ideal for everyday use. Apple Cider Vinegar powder lowers the PH of the blend, so it is balanced and beneficial to the skin. The cleanser doubles as a mask when left on the skin! The tube is 5 layer aluminum barrier laminate and shapes to the clay when squeezed. 3oz, $60 STEP TWO: The ultra-clean FACE OIL moisturizer is handcrafted in small batches from 10 transformative plant-based ingredients that brighten, balance, soften, and restore skin, enabling a full range of results in a single step. Sacha Inchi, Apricot Kernel, and Pomegranate Seed oils form the blend's base. These hypoallergenic fruit seed oils are rich in fatty acids, giving the oil its smooth, lightweight texture and intense skin nourishing abilities. Vanilla and Saffron are infused for an antioxidant boost that leaves skin bright and glowing. Essential oils of Sandalwood, Frankincense, Lavender, Rose, and Oud are rich in phytonutrients that restore balance to your skin and give the oil its subtle, gender-neutral scent. Since the beginning, Flora Mirabilis FACE OIL has been handcrafted in small batches for friends, private clients, and niche boutiques. It features a natural, subtle, gender-neutral scent of wood and resin. The bottle is spill-proof and break-resistant, presented in custom-designed white glass with a hand-finished wood cap and a Renaissance-inspired floral motif. EWG Verified™, Leaping Bunny certified, and clinically tested on people, never animals. It is dermatologist-tested and free of synthetic ingredients, fragrances, dyes, and other common skin allergens. The hypoallergenic formula is recommended for even the most sensitive skin. 30ml, $120 STEP THREE: The heavyweight facial massage BEAUTY TOOL is forged from medical-grade 304 stainless steel and used to encourage lymphatic drainage, boost circulation, and relax tense muscles, promoting a healthy, glowing complexion. The ergonomic shape rounds inward on one edge and outward on the other to fit the face and neck contours, with blunt, pointed tips for acupressure and precision work around smaller areas. It is break-proof and designed to last a lifetime. $60 Flora Mirabilis offers a three-piece set, packaged in a wooden gift box and tied with a decorative ribbon. Includes full-size FACE OIL, CLEANSING CLAY, and stainless-steel BEAUTY TOOL. $220 Contact Details Spotlight Beauty PR spotlightbeautypr@gmail.com

December 12, 2023 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Contract Management Institute Announces New Governance Board

National Contract Management Association

National Contract Management Association’s (NCMA) Contract Management Institute (CMI), an institution dedicated to advancing the profession of contract management is thrilled to introduce its newly appointed Governance Board for the 2023-2024 term. These accomplished professionals will play a pivotal role in guiding the strategic direction of CMI and ensuring the organization's success. "Having had the privilege of working alongside these distinguished professionals throughout my career, I am absolutely thrilled and deeply proud to welcome them to the newly revitalized CMI," stated CMI's Executive Director and former Department of Homeland Security Chief Procurement Officer, Soraya Correa. "Their exceptional expertise and dedication will undoubtedly contribute to our shared vision, and I look forward to the extraordinary journey ahead." NCMA Chief Executive Officer, Kraig Conrad will become the Board Chair for CMI. He expressed his excitement, saying, "I am delighted and honored to serve as Chair for the Institute. CMI is poised to become an important extension of NCMA, providing valuable resources to elevate our profession. I look forward to our journey together and the positive impact we will make." Denyce Carter, the current Board Chair of NCMA, will be joining Kraig Conrad as a distinguished addition and Vice Chair to the CMI board. She said, "I look forward to being part of an initiative that identifies and creates ways to enhance contract management practices, ultimately improving the profession for the workforce and the broader acquisition community." Along with Mr. Conrad and Ms. Carter, the Governance Board includes several accomplished professionals – including three NCMA past Presidents – that bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the CMI board, representing a diverse range of organizations from government agencies and industry leaders to top consulting firms. The full list includes: Amanda Christian, Senior Vice President of Subcontracts and Procurement at CACI International Inc. She is responsible for setting direction, policy, and procedures based upon corporate-level strategy, and ensuring that procurement and subcontracts personnel provide value and contribute to the overall success of the company. Amanda is a Past-President of NCMA and served on its Board of Directors for seven years. She is a Fellow and currently serves on the Board of Advisors. Alan Chvotkin, Partner at Centre Law Group where he specializes in federal government contracts law and its policies and practices, including counseling companies on a wide range of matters from contract formation and performance through disputes and claims. Mr. Chvotkin is a Fellow of NCMA and currently serves on its Board of Advisors. Kim Denver, Senior Vice President and Chief Contracts Executive at Leidos, leads a team of over 250 contracts professionals, overseeing a diverse portfolio of thousands of active contracts, and previously held a key role as Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Procurement. Mr. Denver currently serves on NCMA’s Board of Advisors. Wendy Masiello is currently an independent consultant, having retired from the U.S. Air Force as a three-star general in July 2017. During her 36-year career with the Air Force, she served as director of the Defense Contract Management Agency; deputy assistant secretary (contracting), Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition; and program executive officer for the Air Force’s $30 billion service acquisition portfolio. She is an NCMA Past-President, and currently a member of the Board of Directors for KBR Inc. and Board of Advisors for NCMA and the Public Spend Forum Debra Scheider is Vice President, Corporate Contracts for Lockheed Martin Corporation. She is responsible for leading the Corporations Contracting, Industrial Development, and Estimating work encompassing policies, strategies, training, and procedures across the Corporation. Ms. Scheider is Past-President of NCMA and served on its Board of Directors for nine years. She is a Fellow of NCMA and currently serves on the Board of Advisors. She is a Director for the Procurement Round Table. Karla Smith Jackson, currently serving as the Senior Procurement Executive, Deputy Chief Acquisition Officer, and Assistant Administrator for Procurement at NASA, is a seasoned professional with extensive expertise with more than three decades of federal contracting experience. Her noteworthy background is in program management, acquisition, and contract planning. She is currently a member of the NCMA Board of Directors. Charlie Williams, President, CWilliams, LLC., held a number of pivotal roles that significantly contributed to the field of contract management., Notably, he served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary, Contracting for the United States Air Force, Director of the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), Commissioner on the Section 809 Panel, President of the NCMA Board of Directors, Chair of the NCMA Standards Consensus Body, a valued member of the NCMA Board of Advisors, and a distinguished Member of the NASA Advisory Council. CMI is dedicated to fostering excellence in contract management by conducting research, studies, and analyses that promote engagement, standards, professional development, and enhanced business practices. The new Governance Board will play a pivotal role in guiding the organization's strategic direction and ensuring the continued growth and success of CMI. For more information about the Institute and its Governance Board, please visit ncmahq.org/cmi. The National Contract Management Association (NCMA) – www.ncmahq.org – stands as the premier contract management organization whose mission is to collaborate towards a globally recognized contract management profession that strengthens its nexus with related acquisition communities. Serving approximately 20,000 members in both the public and private sectors, NCMA propels the growth, advancement, and impact of practitioners through a steadfast commitment to serve through the open exchange of ideas in neutral forums. Contact Details National Contract Management Association Holly DeHesa +1 281-865-3296 holly.dehesa@ncmahq.org Company Website https://www.ncmahq.org

December 12, 2023 05:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Ho-Ho-Holiday Gifts

News Media Group, Inc.

Contact Details News Media Group, Inc. Karl Wayne +1 334-440-6397 karl@newsmg.com Company Website https://newsmg.com/

December 08, 2023 09:24 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Minuteman Press Franchise Review: King's Lynn Owners Paula & Keith Boyce Share Key Lessons Learned & Growth Insights for 2024

Minuteman Press International Inc

For nearly two decades, Paula and Keith Boyce have been the dynamic duo behind the Minuteman Press franchise in the vibrant town of King's Lynn, Norfolk, UK. Their journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, transforming their business from a traditional high street print shop into a cutting-edge powerhouse, delivering ingenious print solutions to a roster of prestigious corporate clients. The highlight of their journey came in 2021 when they received the coveted invitation to join the Minuteman Press International President’s Club, a testament to their unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence. Keith Boyce shares the nearly 20-year journey of Minuteman Press in King’s Lynn as well as the key lessons learned, growth insights for 2024, and advice for other owners. History of the Business According to Keith Boyce, “it all began in 2004 with the introduction to Minuteman Press International’s invaluable network of suppliers and partners.” With a focus on marketing, the Boyces conquered new markets, concentrating on delivering unparalleled service that shifted the conversation from price to value. This blueprint for success has powered year after year of remarkable growth, with one notable exception—2021 (during the height of the pandemic). So, what makes Minuteman King’s Lynn such a tour de force? Keith shares, “The system isn't a rigid framework; it's a catalyst for innovation. The transition from the bustling High Street to our present location at 12 Campbells Business Park was a thrilling exercise in adaptability, rooted in Minuteman Press' fundamental principles. Through open channels of communication, our entire team embraced opportunities.” Keith continues, “Then came the curveball – COVID-19. The world changed overnight, and our customers needed novel ways to engage with clients and expand their online presence. We already had a head start serving this market and seized this unique moment, igniting a spark of reinvention in the business, setting us apart from the competition. The reward? A robust financial position to propel us through this thrilling metamorphosis.” Growing the Business Today Today, Keith shares, “Our business is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Traditional core products still make up 50% of our operations. However, more recently in 2023 we took a bold leap forward by acquiring an apparel company. The remaining 50% is a whirlwind of online services, with virtual shops, print-on-demand, fulfilment, and drop-shipping at the forefront. These cutting-edge solutions are on everyone's lips as they adapt to the evolving business landscape. In 2023 and beyond, we are elated to provide ‘managed print services’ to 10 customers, with grand plans to expand to 20 in the coming year. The magic lies in the fact that our relationships with these customers evolve into vital partnerships, creating a vibrant ecosystem of success and learning.” What's next for Minuteman Press in King’s Lynn? Keith says, “Thankfully, the close-knit team and deep customer connections put us in a unique position. We know our customers inside and out, and partner ourselves with industry leaders. It's about weaving all these threads into a tapestry of opportunity. The market may throw curveballs, but we have pumped up the excitement in 2023 and heading into 2024 with a multi-channel marketing push. We are covering Google, social media, and a reinvigorated campaign to meet our existing, dormant, and new customers face to face.” Keith continues, “As Minuteman Head Office puts it, there's direct marketing, and then there's everything else! This is the fundamental tenet of our ongoing quest for year-on-year growth. We also strive to achieve this with careful consideration of our environmental footprint and the need to focus on sustainability, which is a big point of focus here in the UK.” Key Lessons Learned & Advice for Others Keith concludes by sharing, “The most gripping lessons we’ve learned in our 19-year journey are that marketing and nurturing new & existing customers is an unending adventure. It's about keeping focus on profitability and aligning your employees with stretching objectives and lofty goals. Innovating, problem solving, establishing new revenue streams, all with a view to support customers’ needs is what being a part of the franchise family is all about—boldly venturing into the unknown, setting sights high, and writing our success story, one thrilling chapter at a time.” For more information on Minuteman Press in King’s Lynn, England, visit https://minuteman.com/uk/locations/england/kings-lynn/ Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at https://minutemanpressfranchise.co.uk Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

December 08, 2023 05:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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International business rep.: CISCE establishes platform for global cooperation

China News Network

BEIJING, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 7 December 2023 - China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), hosted by China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), was held in Beijing recently. Watch the 39-second video: http://www.ecns.cn/video/2023-12-06/detail-ihcvqepi7488707.shtml CISCE has established a new platform for global industrial cooperation and communication, said plenty of international enterprises. Their unwavering confidence in the Chinese market propels them to root themselves in this land and to be poised to provide products with higher quality for markets in and out of China. During the CISCE, 53 Fortune Global 500 companies, 57 Fortune China 500 companies, 25 top 500 Chinese private enterprises attended the exhibition. Apart from that, a bunch of specialized and sophisticated enterprises that produce new and unique products and hidden champions also took participation, presenting examples of supply chain cooperation between Chinese and international enterprises. "The inaugural supply chain expo is the right event at the right time," said Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, director-general of the World Trade Organization. She further noted that some of the impacts faced by the supply chain actually exposed the fragility of the global production networks. Therefore, internationalization in global trade and supply chains should be strengthened, so that all links can play a role. CISCE is indeed a brand-new concept where everyone can find a place to seek out how to optimize supply chains so that's why such an Expo is significant, said Clas Neumann, Senior Vice President and Head of Global SAP Labs Network. As an open platform for international cooperation, CISCE has also sparked enthusiastic responses among global business community. Ge Yue, Apple's vice president and managing director of Greater China, said, "We have brought several very representative suppliers to the Expo. Of our top 200 global suppliers, 151 are in China." According to Zhang Yihao, president and CEO of GE Healthcare China, the advantages and resilience of China's supply chains are globally acknowledged. "Over the past 12 months, we have opened two new factories in China. China's supply chain offers significant advantages and plays a crucial role in stabilizing global business and trade development." Lily Guan is the President of Cargill China and she commended that CISCE has established an excellent platform that provides businesses with chances for them to communicate with government agencies, clients, and partners, enabling them to seize better opportunities and comprehend industrial trends. She further pointed out that Cargill continues to have a positive outlook on the Chinese market due to its paramount strategic significance. CISCE integrates trade, investment cooperation, innovation aggregation, and exchanges, aiming to build an open international cooperation platform that connects upstream, midstream, and downstream industries, facilitates integration among businesses of all sizes, fosters collaboration between enterprises, universities, research institutes and end-users, and promotes interaction between domestic and foreign enterprises. It vividly displays China's ongoing efforts in high-level opening-up and highlights the country's commitment to maintaining stability and connectivity in global industrial and supply chains, showcasing China's role as a responsible major player. During CISCE, over 360 conversations involving more than 15,000 participants have been held, with more than 20 results including reports, announcements and standards published. According to incomplete statistics, more than 200 cooperation deals and intention agreements have been reached, worth over a total amount of over 150 billion Chinese yuan. Contact Details Wen Tianxia guojixinwenbu@chinanews.com.cn

December 07, 2023 11:26 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Minuteman Press Franchise in Londonderry, NH Wins Business of the Year

Minuteman Press International Inc

For over 8 years and counting, Bob Bean has been the proud owner of the Minuteman Press franchise in Londonderry, New Hampshire located at 44 Nashua Road, Unit 18. When Bob purchased the business in October of 2015, he followed the Minuteman Press system and immediately became involved with several community groups and organizations. Thanks to Bob’s hard work and dedication, Minuteman Press in Londonderry has won the Business of the Year award from the Greater Derry Londonderry Chamber of Commerce. Bob accepted the award at the special awards dinner that was held on Oct. 12, 2023 at the Tupelo Music Hall in Derry NH. Bob shares his humble reaction to winning the award and provides his insights on the importance of being an active member of local groups in order to build relationships and generate referrals. He also talks about his journey to Minuteman Press and how his passion for helping others drives him today. What does it mean to you to win Business of the Year? H ow are you active in your community? Bob Bean: “Receiving the Business of the Year is a humbling experience. It was a surprise, I did not know that we had made such an impact in the Chamber and business community for this recognition. We have just tried to provide services to the businesses and the community to the best of our ability. It is great to be recognized and know that we are doing a good job with in the communities that we serve. I am involved in two local Chambers, member of the Rotary Club of Londonderry, and have been an active member in BNI for 8 years. I have made many connections with a lot of the non-profits in the area and work with them to help with their needs and support their functions. With the local rotary we have sponsored Christmas on the Commons, Senior High School Graduation Banners have donated to many non-profits and helped with fuel assistance during the winter months. I am also involved with the Freemasons in the state.” How would you best describe your community? Bob Bean: “ The Derry/Londonderry community are the largest two towns that are in the chamber and we have several smaller towns in the chamber also. New Hampshire does not have a lot of large metropolitan areas; it is made up more of small towns that are convenient to bordering states. Other than small businesses and small business owners, the majority of the communities are made up of people that work out of state. The people and businesses in the community are open and always look for ways to help each other when possible. As business owners, we all want to support each other and do what we can to see that we can grow and thrive.” What are some of the key ways you’ve grown your business? Bob Bean: “Networking is the key that has worked for us. Since 2015, I have been a member of the chamber and of BNI. I have always been very active in the networking area by going to meetings, ribbon-cuttings, events, and visiting businesses. We took advantage of the upgraded minuteman.com website to get some traffic through online channels. One of the other biggest ways we’ve built the business is through referrals from our customers and the organizations we work with.” What are your high-demand products and services? Bob Bean: “We have been able to provide direct mail services for many of our clients; this has been a big part of the business over the last few years especially during the pandemic. We also do a lot of marketing catalogs and Playbills for several theater groups and music groups.” What was your previous background? Why did you choose Minuteman Press? Bob Bean: “I was in the computer industry for almost 40 years. Most of my career was in management both in manufacturing and support. I was a Field Service Representative for a computer company for many years. Then, for 20 years, I was a Technical Support Manager for a supermarket chain. I chose Minuteman Press because of the research I did on the company and talking to the Regional Vice President and several store owners.” What has the support from Minuteman Press been like for you? Bob Bean: “Minuteman Press International support has been good on all levels. When I have a question, we can usually get an answer quickly. When there is an issue, support has been good at assisting in resolving the issue.” What are the biggest personal and professional rewards of owning your business? Bob Bean: “Personal and professional goals are similar in that I enjoy helping people and organizations. This business has given me the chance to connect with many more people and organizations to be able to help and give my knowledge and experience to them so that they can succeed.” What advice would you give to other business owners right now? Bob Bean: “Get involved with your local Chamber of Commerce and BNI Networking Group. These two are very critical to the growth and success of the business. Also, look into other organizations and groups like the Exchange, Rotary, Kiwanis, or whatever is in your area and local to your business. But do not just join these groups; get involved and be active in what is going on with the groups and be involved in the community. You get out of them what you put into them, so if you are active and visible then you will be the person or business that others will seek out and rely on for help and advice.” For more information on Minuteman Press in Londonderry, NH, visit https://minuteman.com/us/locations/nh/londonderry/ Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com. Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

December 06, 2023 09:10 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Microsoft Shareholder Seeks Accountability for Transgender Policies; Opposes Reid Hoffman for Board

NLPC

At the annual meeting for Microsoft Corporation on Thursday, National Legal and Policy Center will present a shareholder proposal that demands the company deliver an analysis of potential discrimination in the insurance coverage it offers employees, as it pertains to gender. Specifically, NLPC has identified coverage for so-called “transgender” staffers who desire to switch from their birth sex. Meanwhile the tech giant – otherwise generous in its benefits coverage, which includes paying for women to travel out of their home states to get abortions, if it’s unlawful where they live – has no provisions in its health plans for those who rue their life-altering “transition” decisions. In support of the proposal, NLPC also filed a proxy memo with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which explains in greater detail the reasons why shareholders should support its resolution for the Microsoft meeting, which is Proposal 5 on the company’s proxy statement. As the nonprofit shareholder reports, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission prohibits discrimination “in the payment of wages or employee benefits” based on gender, and thus Microsoft’s failure to accommodate de-transitioning workers is clearly biased and inequitable treatment. “A ‘de-transitioner’ fits into Dept. of Labor- and EEOC-protected categories of prohibited discrimination, which include ‘sex’ – expressly incorporating ‘gender identity’ and ‘sexual orientation,’” NLPC reported. “Arguably, for a ‘de-transitioner,’ the protected categories of ‘disability’ and/or ‘genetic information’ could also be cited as possible bases for discrimination.” “While Microsoft boasts about its perfect score from the Human Rights Campaign for capitulating to their radical LGBT agenda, those who are permanently scarred as a consequence of their policies have nowhere to turn for help,” said Paul Chesser, director of NLPC’s Corporate Integrity Project. As NLPC’s proposal states, many regretful transitioners are harmed with “various long-lasting side effects like chronic pain, sexual dysfunction, unwanted hair loss and hair gain, menstrual irregularities, urinary problems, and other complications. Rather than resolve mental health problems, such ‘gender affirming’ care instead often exacerbates them.” NLPC also notes how sufferers are becoming increasingly litigious, which could present material risk to Microsoft shareholders, as noted in the proxy memo to the SEC: Michelle Zacchigna had her uterus and breasts removed, and is suing the eight providers who treated her over their “recklessness.” “Distress related to my gender was treated to the exclusion of other serious mental health issues which went undiagnosed for years. Blind affirmation of my stated identity closed the door to alternative treatment options. What happened to me should never happen again.” Those who desire to “de-transition” cannot find needed treatment, whether from providers or insurance companies… Prisha Mosley said every primary care physician, endocrinologist, obstetrician, and gynecologist she’s approached on her insurance list has turned her away or said they can’t help. “I could call and be rejected every single day.” Chloe Cole said, “I reached out to every physician, every therapist who is involved with this, and I haven’t really gotten any help at all.” Cat Cattinson said, “Because of the experimental nature of gender medicine, doctors know very little about the long-term effects of medical transition and even less about the health-care needs of those who de-transition.” “Microsoft is not only vulnerable legally and financially because it fails to cover care for de-transitioners,” Chesser said, “but also because the company’s stated policies affirm it is possible to change one’s gender. If a judge and jury were to decide the company lied and convinced an employee into undergoing chemical or surgical castration, that is a material risk that Microsoft must disclose in its 10-K annual report to shareholders.” In addition to its shareholder proposal, NLPC also filed another proxy memo with the SEC to oppose the re-election of LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman for Microsoft’s board of directors. The move follows a letter that Chesser sent to Microsoft’s board in October, which asked for the removal of the tech billionaire from the board, due to his hyper-partisan political activities and his connections to the late convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Founded in 1991, NLPC promotes ethics in public life and government accountability through research, investigation, education, and legal action. ### For more information or to schedule an interview with Paul Chesser, contact Dan Rene at 202-329-8357 or drene@nlpc.org. Please visit http://www.nlpc.org. Contact Details National Legal and Policy Center Dan Rene +1 202-329-8357 drene@nlpc.org Company Website http://www.nlpc.org

December 05, 2023 01:35 PM Eastern Standard Time

SIGMA America Announces First-Ever "Holiday Mirrorless Lens Giveaway"

SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA

SIGMA Corporation of America, a leading camera and lens manufacturer for both photography and cinema applications, today announced its first-ever "Holiday Mirrorless Lens Giveaway" which offers the chance to win SIGMA lens packages in the month of December for four mirrorless interchangeable lens camera systems. The four lens package prizes are: Week #1 (Dec. 4-10) Three ultra-fast SIGMA prime lenses for Fujifilm X Mount cameras (MSRP $1,267) 16mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary 30mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary 56mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary Week #2 (Dec. 11-17) Three pro-level F2.8 zoom lenses for Sony E-Mount cameras (MSRP $3,997) 14-24mm F2.8 DG DN | Art 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS | Sports Week #3 (Dec. 18-24) Three pro-level F2.8 zoom lenses for Panasonic, Leica & SIGMA L-Mount cameras (MSRP $3,997) 14-24mm F2.8 DG DN | Art 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art 70-200mm F2.8 DG DN OS | Sports Week #4 (Dec. 25-31) Three ultra-fast SIGMA prime lenses for Nikon Z cameras (MSRP $1,397) 16mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary 30mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary 56mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary "Four lucky photographers will win lens sets featuring some of the most well-regarded lenses available for each mirrorless camera platform, and bring their equipment portfolio to a whole new level," said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, President of SIGMA America. "The Holiday Mirrorless Lens Giveaway is our way of expressing gratitude to SIGMA's loyal customers during the holiday season, welcoming new customers, and supporting the growth of the art of photography." Interested photographers can complete the entry form here for a chance to win the first of four lens packages. Entrants can also earn bonus chances to win by browsing the SIGMA America website, answering some easy questions, and visiting SIGMA on social media. Entry information for additional giveaways can be found in the coming weeks on SIGMA America social media channels. Although there will only be four winners in SIGMA's first-ever "Holiday Mirrorless Lens Giveaway," all holiday shoppers have the chance to enjoy savings on dozens of SIGMA lenses through the 2023 Holiday Sale. ### About SIGMA Corporation Craftsmanship. Precision. Dedication. Since 1961, SIGMA has been devoted to the pursuit of advancing photographic technology. Unique to the industry, the family-owned business produces its high-quality, award-winning still photo and cinema camera lenses, DSLR and mirrorless cameras, flashes, filters and accessories from its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Aizu, Japan. In 2012, the company introduced SIGMA Global Vision with three distinct lens lines: Art, Contemporary and Sports. Designed for industry camera mount systems including Canon, Fujifilm, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Sony and SIGMA, each lens is handcrafted and tested in Japan to ensure a high-performance, premium product that is purpose-built to last. In 2016, the SIGMA CINE lens lineup was launched, further cementing SIGMA as an innovator in imaging engineering. Embodying the core optical DNA that has defined the SIGMA benchmark of excellence, SIGMA CINE lenses meet the needs of advanced 6k and 8k cinema production. Forming the landmark L-Mount alliance alongside Leica and Panasonic in 2018, SIGMA continues its storied tradition of imaging excellence through groundbreaking innovations such as the native L-mount SIGMA fp and fp L full-frame mirrorless digital cameras, announced in July 2019 and March 2021 respectively. These products, along with over 35 award-winning SIGMA Global Vision lenses available in native L-Mount format, demonstrate SIGMA's continued commitment to the creative community through expanded product offerings. With the fp, fp L and these lenses, even more users can now leverage SIGMA's renowned optical formula to achieve their creative vision with ease. For information about SIGMA America, please visit sigmaphoto.com and SIGMA Blog for helpful information about our products, or follow SIGMA America on social media. SIGMA Photo: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram SIGMA CINE: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Contact Details SIGMA +1 631-201-7381 SIGMA.PR@Sigmaphoto.com Stacey Doss Stacey@sddpr.com Company Website https://www.sigma-global.com/en/

December 04, 2023 12:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

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