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Trust Through Transparency: How AutoTechIQ Is Rebuilding Consumer Confidence In The Auto Repair Industry

Benzinga

When you google ‘trust,’ you’ll find “ Firm belief in the integrity, ability, or character of a person or thing; confidence or reliance. ” Surveys reveal that nearly half of car owners think auto repair shops overcharge them. In fact, more than half would like a better explanation of the condition, cause, and correction to make sure they know whether the money spent is a good investment in the safety, driveability, and longevity of their vehicle. AutoTechIQ.com addresses this uncertainty by adding vehicle-specific education content and recommending auto repair businesses certified by AutoTechIQ. A new way of gaining trust Digital inspection and communication tools have created a platform for car owners to address concerns about overpaying. The traditional trust in the shop to provide a safe and reliable means of transportation is accompanied by clear and transparent education for car owners to make decisions based on well-documented findings. They are the basis for a budget and appointment schedule for future visits. How does transparency create trust? Assume your car smells like burning oil, and it is hard for you to pinpoint the source, so you drop off your car at a repair shop. Modern shops will perform a Digital Vehicle Health Inspection, which not only documents the testing of your concern but adds 35-50 topics for a full bill of health. For example, in the case image below, a transaxle seal dripping was causing a burning oil smell; the red arrows and text document the details. Red arrows point out the leak, and the text provides The condition (the smell), The cause (the shaft seal is leaking.), and The correction (the seal needs to be replaced). This documentation provides complete transparency and, applied to all topics, will make you ask for a quote. You'll be more confident that the shop will perform high-quality work. Car Owners like me experience the same Another element of trust is people’s decisions who are in a similar or identical situation. For example, buying products and services online is almost unthinkable without reading reviews. Consumers not only browse the good and bad reviews but also prioritize reviews by people in the same situation, like car owners experiencing the same symptom and who drive the same vehicle type. AutoTechIQ.com will show, per symptom, how many car owners driving the same vehicle type have experienced the same symptom and what potential fixes auto repair shops perform to fix it. Since similar symptoms don’t mean a single fix, the website lists all typical and potential repairs to make you confident about what to discuss with your trusted auto repair shop. You can explore an example of the burning oil smell here: https://www.autotechiq.com/symptom/my-car-smells-like-burning-oil. Can I repair the car myself to eliminate a problem? Most symptoms need a professional inspection, test and/or diagnosis to pinpoint the cause. A key element of today’s auto repair is the ability of the shop’s service advisor to educate the customer about why the repair needs to happen and what safety, cost avoidance, and environmental impact it imposes. Then, with a list of options on the table, the customer can decide the best outcome for their vehicle and their goals. AutoTechIQ has introduced three certification levels for the shops near you: Certified Business Recommended Business Business in Good Standing All levels require at least 100 Google Reviews with an average score of 4.5 and higher. Certified businesses conduct a Digital Auto Checkup on every vehicle and recommend the right approach for longevity, reliability, and driveability instead of just replacing parts and correcting the car’s symptoms. Then, you ultimately choose what is budget-friendly for you. More details can be found here. Also, note that recommended businesses conduct a Digital Vehicle Health Inspection but have not been certified yet. A high level of transparency eases your concern about overpaying or not having the correct diagnosis. AutoTechIQ.com is extracting symptoms and fixes from millions of work orders across North America and making the results available to you in an easy-to-digest way and with a minimum of the technical lingo experts often say. How do I find the best professional auto repair shop for my car? There has been a significant change in how former ‘mom-and-pop’ shops focus on repairing vehicles after becoming professional businesses. Now, they focus on helping you determine your vehicle's best outcome by meeting your goals for longevity and dependability. This approach spans longer than just one visit. Check the auto repair shops near you! Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

November 08, 2022 01:14 PM Eastern Standard Time

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Sesame Milk Is The New Trend In Plant-Based Milk

MarketJar

The plant-based milk market is currently worth $38.9 billion, making it 7.7 times larger than the market for plant-based meat, and it’s only going to continue growing. In fact, the market is expected to quadruple over the next decade after doubling in the previous five years. According to Data Bridge Market Research, the market is projected to climb at a CAGR of 15.5% to reach a value of $123.2 billion by 2029. One key factor driving market growth is the rising prevalence of dairy intolerance, in fact, more than 70% of the planet is intolerant to dairy proteins. Plant milks provide a product that functions in cooking and coffee like dairy milk, but without the allergenic proteins. Another is a concern for the planet, given the high environmental stress from cultivating and feeding livestock and the ancillary methane/CO2 etc. Although plant milk alternatives like almond milk are still stressful agriculturally on the planet with high water usage and damage to bee populations, new alternatives like sesame milk use 95% less water than almond milk and thrive in arid climates around the globe, from South America to Africa to Asia. Add to that rising consumer awareness of animal health and you can see why the plant-based milk industry is primed to continue experiencing rising success in the coming years. Of course, it remains to be seen which plant-based alternative will hold onto the largest share of the market. Plant-Based Milk Market Constantly Evolving As the market grows and evolves, new plant-based formulations replace old ones as consumer favorites, meaning new products and new companies are consistently entering the market looking to take the top spot. First, soy milk became extremely popular, but it gave way to almond milk. Now oat milk is quickly rising in popularity. Almond milk, which currently holds the majority of the market share, is ripe for disruption. Why? Because it turns out that almond milk isn't good for your health or the environment. It loses grades for sustainability and nutrition...while oat milk doesn’t score much better. You see, even as oat milk gains popularity, a new plant-based milk trend is starting to emerge - sesame milk. Luckily, for environmentally conscious consumers and investors, The Planting Hope Company Inc. (TSXV:MYLK) (OTCQB:MYLKF) is a rapidly growing breakthrough company focused on producing the world's most planet-friendly and nutritious plant-based milk from sesame seeds. Planting Hope has spent more than 5 years developing the world’s first sesame milk, Hope and Sesame® Sesamemilk, levering cutting-edge ingredient formulations and processing technology to create a plant milk that performs like dairy milk in coffee and baking, with equivalent nutrition, including 8 grams of complete protein per serving. Hope and Sesame Sesamemilk has received numerous awards and nominations from groups like Good Housekeeping, the Specialty Coffee Association, and World Plant-Based Foods Expo. Hope and Sesame Sesamemilk is just one of four fast-growing food and beverage brands owned by this company. Planting Hope recently announced the launch of its Hope and Sesame® Sesamemilk line in Canada with Loblaw Companies Limited, Canada's largest grocery retailer. 382 stores across Canada will begin selling Hope and Sesame® Sesamemilk in dual-language packaging that meets Canadian standards in November 2022. Hope and Sesame® Sesamemilk, which is packaged in shelf-stable 946ml (32oz) cartons in three flavours, has been added to the plant milk section in stores (Barista Blend Sesamemilk, Original Sesamemilk, and Unsweetened Original Sesamemilk). “As a plant-based food and beverage company headquartered in Canada and listed on the TSX Venture Exchange, entering with our flagship Hope and Sesame® brand is an important milestone for Planting Hope. Loblaw has always taken an innovative approach to the grocery experience and expects the same from its brand partners,” said Julia Stamberger, CEO and Co-founder of Planting Hope. “Hope and Sesame® has brought important breakthrough innovation to plant-based milk, opening a whole new category, sesame milk, that unlocks the dense nutrition of the extremely sustainable and planet-friendly sesame seed. We’re very excited to bring our innovative Sesamemilk line, in our eye-grabbing, colorful new dual-language packaging, to Canadian consumers with Loblaw.” Planting Hope has committed to releasing the best-selling products under its Hope and Sesame®, MozaicsTM, and RightRice® brands in bilingual packaging that complies with Canadian regulations in the second quarter of 2022. In Q3 2022, the Company began producing these products in Canadian packaging for the first time. Planting Hope will introduce three shelf-stable Hope and Sesame® SKUs (Barista Blend Sesamemilk, Original Sesamemilk, and Unsweetened Original Sesamemilk) in Canadian packaging across 382 stores in the current quarter (Q4), adding 1,146 new Total Distribution Points in Loblaw locations. The Planting Hope Company Expands Distribution The Planting Hope Company has added more than 3,700 new grocery retail doors and more than 9,600 new total distribution points (TDP) in key retailers such as Loblaws, Whole Foods, Sprouts Farmers Market, Safeway, Fresh Thyme Market, and many others since the beginning of 2022. The total grocery retail TDP has surpassed 50,000 placements across product lines and brands. The Planting Hope Company announced in September that its Hope and Sesame® Sesamemilk is now available at Kroger stores nationwide under multiple retailer banners. In addition, the Company added top New York City area food service distributor Baldor Specialty Foods and increased trade and consumer visibility through events, new distribution, and in-store placements. Baldor distributes 6,000 food and beverage items to over 4,600 distribution locations in New York City's five boroughs, including restaurants (including over 70 Michelin-starred restaurants), retail, hospitals, corporate campuses, and schools. In addition, the Company has increased the distribution of its RightRice® brand in over 1,500 locations, including the leading Southeastern US retailer Publix. RightRice products are available nationwide in over 8,000 doors at conventional and natural product retailers such as Kroger, Wegmans, Whole Foods Market, and others. RightRice has also developed a strategic foodservice distribution network through quick service restaurants such as CAVA and menu additions to college/university and business food service operations. Planting Hope reported $3.3 million in revenue in Q2 2022, a 276% increase from $900,000 in Q2 2021 and a 32% increase over Q1 2022 revenues, representing a 22% increase over the entire fiscal year 2021. In Q2 2022, the Company earned $2.5 million in net revenue, a 205% increase from the previous quarter and a 24% increase year over year. The Planting Hope Company Inc. is continuing to execute on its business plan for this year, which includes expanding core products in key channels and establishing new products and distribution to achieve scale in 2023. For more information on The Planting Hope Company (TSXV: MYLK) (OTCQB: MYLKF), please visit this link or their website at https://plantinghopecompany.com. Disclaimer 1) The author of the Article, or members of the author’s immediate household or family, do not own any securities of the companies set forth in this Article. The author determined which companies would be included in this article based on research and understanding of the sector. 2) The Article was issued on behalf of and sponsored by, The Planting Hope Company Inc. Market Jar Media Inc. has or expects to receive from The Planting Hope Company Inc.’s Digital Marketing Agency of Record (Native Ads Inc.) eighty eight thousand and seven hundred and eighty USD for 25 days (19 business days). 3) Statements and opinions expressed are the opinions of the author and not Market Jar Media Inc., its directors or officers. The author is wholly responsible for the validity of the statements. The author was not paid by Market Jar Media Inc. for this Article. Market Jar Media Inc. was not paid by the author to publish or syndicate this Article. Market Jar has not independently verified or otherwise investigated all such information. None of Market Jar or any of their respective affiliates, guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any such information. The information provided above is for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Market Jar Media Inc. requires contributing authors to disclose any shareholdings in, or economic relationships with, companies that they write about. Market Jar Media Inc. relies upon the authors to accurately provide this information and Market Jar Media Inc. has no means of verifying its accuracy. 4) The Article does not constitute investment advice. Each reader is encouraged to consult with his or her individual financial professional and any action a reader takes as a result of the information presented here is his or her own responsibility. By opening this page, each reader accepts and agrees to Market Jar Media Inc.’s terms of use and full legal disclaimer as set forth here. This Article is not a solicitation for investment. Market Jar Media Inc. does not render general or specific investment advice and the information on PressReach.com should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Market Jar Media Inc. does not endorse or recommend the business, products, services or securities of any company mentioned on PressReach.com. 5) Market Jar Media Inc. and its respective directors, officers and employees hold no shares for any company mentioned in the Article. 6) This document contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, (collectively, “forward-looking statements”), which reflect management’s expectations regarding The Planting Hope Company Inc.’s future growth, future business plans and opportunities, expected activities, and other statements about future events, results or performance. Wherever possible, words such as “predicts”, “projects”, “targets”, “plans”, “expects”, “does not expect”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “anticipate” or “does not anticipate”, “believe”, “intend” and similar expressions or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative or grammatical variation thereof or other variations thereof, or comparable terminology have been used to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements relating to: (a) revenue generating potential with respect to The Planting Hope Company Inc.’s industry; (b) market opportunity; (c) The Planting Hope Company Inc.’s business plans and strategies; (d) services that The Planting Hope Company Inc. intends to offer; (e) The Planting Hope Company Inc.s milestone projections and targets; (f) The Planting Hope Company Inc.s expectations regarding receipt of approval for regulatory applications; (g) The Planting Hope Company Inc.s intentions to expand into other jurisdictions including the timeline expectations relating to those expansion plans; and (h) The Planting Hope Company Inc.s expectations with regarding its ability to deliver shareholder value. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and are based upon a number of estimates and assumptions of management in light of management’s experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, as of the date of this document including, without limitation, assumptions about: (a) the ability to raise any necessary additional capital on reasonable terms to execute The Planting Hope Company Inc.’s business plan; (b) that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner; (c) The Planting Hope Company Inc.’s ability to procure equipment and operating supplies in sufficient quantities and on a timely basis; (d) The Planting Hope Company Inc.s ability to enter into contractual arrangements with additional Pharmacies; (e) the accuracy of budgeted costs and expenditures; (f) The Planting Hope Company Inc.s ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; (g) political and regulatory stability; (h) the receipt of governmental, regulatory and third-party approvals, licenses and permits on favorable terms; (i) changes in applicable legislation; (j) stability in financial and capital markets; and (k) expectations regarding the level of disruption to as a result of CV-19. Such forward-looking information involves a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements of The Planting Hope Company Inc.. to be materially different from any future plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks include, without limitation: (a) The Planting Hope Company Inc.s operations could be adversely affected by possible future government legislation, policies and controls or by changes in applicable laws and regulations; (b) public health crises such as CV-19 may adversely impact PThe Planting Hope Company Inc.’s business; (c) the volatility of global capital markets; (d) political instability and changes to the regulations governing The Planting Hope Company Inc.’s business operations (e) The Planting Hope Company Inc. may be unable to implement its growth strategy; and (f) increased competition. Except as required by law, The Planting Hope Company Inc. undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future event or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Neither does The Planting Hope Company Inc. nor any of its representatives make any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy, sufficiency or completeness of the information in this document. Neither The Planting Hope Company Inc. nor any of its representatives shall have any liability whatsoever, under contract, tort, trust or otherwise, to you or any person resulting from the use of the information in this document by you or any of your representatives or for omissions from the information in this document. 7) Any graphs, tables or other information demonstrating the historical performance or current or historical attributes of The Planting Hope Company Inc. or any other entity contained in this document are intended only to illustrate historical performance or current or historical attributes of The Planting Hope Company Inc. or such entities and are not necessarily indicative of future performance of The Planting Hope Company Inc. or such entities. Contact Details Market Jar Media Inc. and PressReach James Young +1 800-340-9767 campaigns@pressreach.com Company Website https://pressreach.com

November 08, 2022 06:30 AM Pacific Standard Time

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READY FOR BUSINESS FUND IS DISTRIBUTING MORE THAN $200,000 IN CASH GRANTS TO 76 SMALL BUSINESSES IN WASHINGTON

Comcast Washington

SEATTLE, November 7, 2022 – The Ready for Business Fund – a relief program launched by GSBA, Washington State’s LGBTQ and allied chamber of commerce, and Comcast – is distributing $2,500 and $4,000 cash grants to 76 small businesses throughout Washington state. The Ready for Business Fund was founded in the summer of 2020 with an initial $100,000 investment from Comcast and designation of GSBA as the fund manager. To date, the fund has supported more than 200 small businesses in Washington with nearly $1 million in financial support and wraparound services. The Ready for Business Fund was renewed this year with an additional $75,000 in funding from Comcast and GSBA, reprising its role as the program and fund manager. Grants from the Ready for Business Fund will be made possible by more than $150,000 in additional donations from Pepsi, T-Mobile, US Bank, Meta, and Verity Credit Union and a $100,000 grant from King County. These funds will now support small business owners across all industries, including local restaurants, bookstores, bistros, shops and stores, which are an important part of the social fabric in our communities. “GSBA recognizes the importance of investing in the small businesses that are critical to a thriving community and economy,” said Ilona Lohrey, GSBA president and CEO. “We are proud to once again partner with Comcast to grow our Ready for Business Fund to support a diverse group of business owners who need our help now more than ever.” The Ready for Business Fund was created to support small businesses in Washington, especially those owned by LGBTQ people, Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), and women, who are at greater risk in today’s uncertain economy. Grant recipients also include small businesses located in rural areas of Washington that lack proximity to resources. “We're grateful for our continued partnership with the GSBA to recognize so many resilient small businesses through the Ready for Business Fund,” said Diem Ly, Community Impact director, Comcast Washington. “We at Comcast believe and act on our shared value that ensuring equitable access to resources for BIPOC and LGBTQ-owned businesses means all of our communities and neighborhoods benefit in the long-run.” Feel free to adjust as you see fit! “Between recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns over inflation, our small businesses have faced some of the most difficult struggles over the last few years, and it is up to our community to step up and support them. That’s why partnerships like the one between King County, GSBA and Comcast are so imperative right now,” shared King County Councilmember Joe McDermott. GSBA assembled a selection committee consisting of diverse community and business leaders to evaluate the applications received. Notifications to grant applicants about the status of their application have begun and awards will be delivered beginning this week. All grant recipients will also receive wrap-around services, including GSBA membership and consulting. Ready for Business Fund grant recipients include: More information is available at theGSBA.org/ready-for-business. About GSBA Established in 1981, GSBA is Washington State's LGBTQ and allied chamber of commerce and is the largest of its kind in North America. The chamber represents over 1,400 small business, corporate, and nonprofit members who share the values of promoting diversity, equity, equality, and inclusion in the workplace. GSBA proudly serves as a connector across the region, bringing communities together through business while advocating for civil rights and small business. GSBA also promotes LGBTQ tourism through Travel Out Seattle, advocates for small businesses in Seattle’s Capitol Hill Neighborhood through the Capitol Hill Business Alliance (CHBA) and invests in the next generation of LGBTQ and allied leaders through the GSBA Scholarship & Education Fund. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on broadband, aggregation, and streaming with over 56 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Andy Colley Andy_Colley@Comcast.com Company Website https://www.thegsba.org/business-resources/ready-for-business

November 07, 2022 08:56 AM Pacific Standard Time

Cold and Flu Season 2022: How Over-the-Counter Remedies Can Help

YourUpdateTV

Flu season has almost always been a predictable part of every winter, but the COVID-19 pandemic threw things out of whack. The 2020-2021 flu season was practically non-existent due to COVID-19 precautions and lockdowns, and last year’s flu season was definitely mild compared to pre-pandemic years. Recently, Best-Selling Author and Medical Contributor Dr. Ian Smith teamed up with Mucinex on a nationwide satellite media tour to discuss the upcoming cold and flu season and some resources that can help. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/c4AY6pLO1kU Many health experts are predicting the 2022-2023 flu season will be a severe one, due to several factors. The main reason the flu basically disappeared the last two years was the behavior changes people made to avoid COVID – staying home, avoiding public gatherings, wearing masks, and not traveling. That also prevented the flu virus from spreading like usual. Those measures have been mostly abandoned – in addition, without the last two ‘flu seasons’ many individuals’ immunity to seasonal flu will be decreased. It is possible that we could see a higher rate of severe illness due to the flu this year. Many experts have looked to Australia, where flu season runs from April to September. They are just coming out their most devastating flu season in five years, which could be a precursor as to what we can expect to see in the U.S. The best way to prevent and limit the effects if you do contact the flu is to get vaccinated. It can take up to two weeks for the vaccine to be most effective after administration, and since the influenza virus is already circulating, it is best to do this as soon as possible. Key preventative measures like washing your hands often and covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and sneezing into your elbow if you don’t have a tissue can be extremely effective in preventing the spread of germs. If you do find yourself with flu-like symptoms, such as cough and congestion, there are options available to help you feel better and over-the-counter remedies are the first stop. While over-the-counter remedies don’t cure the flu virus, they can go a long way towards helping treat the symptoms. Dr. Ian’s go-to is Mucinex Extended-Release Tablets, because they are clinically proven to last up to 12 hours. As the #1 pharmacist recommended expectorant, Mucinex Extended-Release Tablets relieve chest congestion and thin and loosen mucus, which can provide relief for your chest congestion, making your cough more productive. People must use over-the-counter products as directed. If symptoms persist, you should contact your healthcare professional and get checked out if deemed necessary. You can find Mucinex online at Mucinex.com or stop by Walmart or your local pharmacy retailer. About Dr Ian Smith Dr. Ian Smith is the author of the #1 New York Times bestselling books, SHRED: THE REVOLUTIONARY DIET, and SUPER SHRED: The Big Results Diet, and BLAST THE SUGAR OUT. Dr. Smith’s highly anticipated newest book, The Clean 20, became an instant New York Times best seller, helping hundreds of thousands of people reduce bad sugars from their diet, lose weight, lower blood sugar levels, and cut the cravings. Dr. Smith was appointed by President Obama to a second term on the prestigious President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition. He is currently the medical contributor and co-host of the nationally syndicated television show The Rachael Ray Show. He is a former co-host of the Emmy award winning syndicated daytime talk show, The Doctors. He also served as the medical/diet expert for six seasons on VH1’s highly-rated Celebrity Fit Club, and is the creator and founder of the national health initiatives The 50 Million Pound Challenge and The Makeover Mile. Dr. Smith is the former medical correspondent for NBC News network and for NewsChannel 4 in New York, where he filed reports for NBC Nightly News and The Today Show as well as WNBC’s various news broadcasts. He has appeared extensively on various broadcasts including The Oprah Winfrey Show, The View, Dr. Oz, Steve Harvey Show, The Talk, Larry King Live, Anderson Cooper 360, CNN, MSNBC and many more. He has written for various publications including Time, Newsweek, Men’s Fitness, and the New York Daily News, and has been featured in several other publications including, People, Redbook, Details Magazine, Essence, Ebony, University of Chicago Medicine on the Midway, Cosmopolitan, and Black Enterprise. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

November 04, 2022 10:05 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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MySize Acquires Naiz Fit To Consolidate Apparel Sizing Solutions And Position Company As A Potential Leader Helping Serve $1 Trillion Global Fashion Industry

MySize, Inc.

The nearly $1 trillion global fashion industry is no stranger to innovation. Thanks to technological advancements in the e-commerce fashion industry, apparel, footwear and accessories sales ballooned in 2021, hitting $180.5 billion in the U.S. alone. The sector is expected to grow by 13% this year, with consumers set to spend $204.9 billion on fashion items online. But while the industry looks promising, there are some disadvantages to shopping online — such as receiving an ill-fitting garment — that could affect the consumer experience and, ultimately, the sector’s growth. With returns being a commonly potentially huge blow to retailers’ bottom lines, MySize Inc. (NASDAQ: MYSZ) has developed solutions that could benefit both sides of the shopping experience. Measurement Solutions Founded in 2014, the company is an omnichannel e-commerce platform and provider of artificial intelligence (AI)-driven measurement solutions to drive revenue growth and reduce costs for its business clients. MySize ’s MySizeID is based on sophisticated algorithms and cutting-edge technology with broad applications for apparel sales in e-commerce and hybrid settings. The company recently launched FirstLook Smart Mirror, a mirrorlike touch display that provides in-store customers an enhanced shopping experience and contactless checkout. MySize says Orgad, its online retail platform, has expertise in e-commerce, supply chain and technology, operating as a third-party seller on Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), eBay Inc. (NASDAQ: EBAY) and other sites. To expand its portfolio and offerings, MySize announced on Oct. 12 that it acquired Spain-based Naiz Fit, a software as a service (SaaS) technology solutions provider that solves size and fit issues for fashion e-commerce companies. Naiz Fit’s SaaS Technology Naiz Fit’s SaaS technology acts as a digital tailor. It gathers more than 20 body measurements without asking customers to measure themselves by using its proprietary AI and computer vision capabilities to transform simple images into body measurements. For customers who do not want to use photos, Naiz Fit implements statistical modeling algorithms to determine the size and fit based on height, weight, age, gender and fit preference. MySize reports that Naiz Fit’s latest product — Smart Catalogue — will be launched following the acquisition. Smart Catalogue is designed to help retail products and design teams make the most informed decisions for their collections based on real-time customer data. With over 40 clients in Spain, Italy, Germany and France, Naiz Fit brings MySize a substantial customer base, including Desigual, Moschino, El Ganso, Philosophy, Alberta Ferretti, Silbon and Boglioli Milano. Financials Naiz Fit’s revenue and financial results will be fully integrated into MySize’s consolidated results for the fourth quarter of 2022, according to the company. As a result of the acquisition, Naiz Fit’s customers “will reap the benefits of a broader portfolio of products and solutions delivered by an unparalleled combined team of industry leaders with a deep understanding of the fashion e-commerce retail landscape,” the company said. Naiz Fit expects an estimated $400,000 in 2022 revenue, with substantial increases anticipated for 2023. MySize also anticipates its combined Naiz Fit and MySizeID sizing solution revenue to contribute an additional $1 million in revenues in 2023. “Combining the MySizeID and Naiz Fit sizing solutions, we expect to gain significant economies in sales and marketing and to deliver unparalleled sizing technology to fashion retailers,” MySize Founder and CEO Ronen Luzon said. “We believe the acquisition will be highly accretive in the near and long term as well as being a strategic play. By leading the consolidation of sizing solutions, MySize is positioning to build greater and broader offerings and become the leading technology provider in the industry.” The acquisition of Naiz Fit could position MySize as a leading company in measurement solution technologies for retail, helping the company boost revenue and grow its customer base. MySize, Inc. (NASDAQ: MYSZ) (TASE: MYSZ.TA) is an omnichannel e-commerce platform and provider of AI-driven measurement solutions to drive revenue growth and reduce costs for its business clients. Orgad, its online retailer platform, has expertise in e-commerce, supply chain, and technology operating as a third-party seller on Amazon.com and other sites. MySize recently launched FirstLook Smart Mirror, a mirror-like touch display that provides in-store customers an enhanced shopping experience and contactless checkout. FirstLook Smart Mirror extends MySize's reach into physical stores and is expected to contribute to revenues through unit sales and recurring service fees.MySize has developed a unique measurement technology based on sophisticated algorithms and cutting-edge technology with broad applications, including the apparel, e-commerce, DIY, shipping, and parcel delivery industries. This proprietary measurement technology is driven by several algorithms that are able to calculate and record measurements in a variety of novel ways. To learn more about MySize, please visit our website: www.mysizeid.com. This post contains sponsored advertising content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Or Kles, CFO ir@mysizeid.com Company Website https://mysizeid.com

November 03, 2022 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

How Much Should I Spend on an Engagement Ring?

Benzinga

Buying an engagement ring signifies a lifelong emotional investment in your future with your partner. An engagement ring purchase is also a significant financial investment. According to a 2021 BriteCo™ survey, 38% of respondents said that buying their engagement ring was the biggest purchase outside of buying a home or vehicle. Making such a significant financial decision requires considering how much to spend on an engagement ring. Find out how much you should spend on this sentimental piece of jewelry by exploring the average engagement ring cost and how to budget for a ring you and your partner love. What’s the Average Cost of an Engagement Ring in 2022? Engagement ring shopping can be stressful and confusing, so to help you determine how much an engagement ring should cost, it’s helpful to know the average price of an engagement ring to use as a baseline. The average engagement ring price in 2021 was approximately $7,011, an increase of 6.1% over 2020. Respondents of the BriteCo™ survey reported a slightly lower median price of $3,250, with 61% spending between $2,500 and $10,000 or more. BriteCo research showed the average spend on earth-mined diamonds increasing 11.9%, from $7,197 to $8,053 in 2021. The average spend for engagement rings with lab-grown diamonds, by comparison, was $4,383, up 8.6% over 2020 prices. BriteCo data also showed that lab-grown diamonds increased their market penetration in the past year from 18.7% of engagement ring sales in 2020 to 28.4% of sales in 2021. The average cost of an engagement ring also varies based on the buyer’s location. In the Mid-Atlantic region, including New York, rings cost an average of $9,343. States in the Pacific region, including California, saw an average spend of $8,626, and people in the central parts of the U.S. spend about $5,530 on average. Deciding on Your Engagement Ring Budget Deciding how much you should spend on an engagement ring involves understanding your budget for the purchase. Your income level, ring preferences and ring-related expenses like jewelry insurance all factor into how much you can and want to spend on your partner’s engagement ring. You can also use an engagement ring calculator tool to find out how much it will really cost to buy a stunning ring for your partner. What Can You Afford? The No. 1 consideration for buying an engagement ring is how much you can afford. In the past, many people determined how much to spend on an engagement ring based on salary. A 1930s De Beers Group marketing campaign suggested that a man had to spend at least three months’ salary on a diamond engagement ring or wedding ring to prove his devotion. While this rule may have worked in past decades, many modern ring buyers choose to spend much more conservatively. Most buyers forgo the salary-based budgeting method altogether. But if you are wondering, “How much should an engagement ring cost according to salary?” CNBC recommends only 5% of your income go toward the purchase. If you make close to the median household income of $70,784, that would mean a reasonable ring budget of about $3,539. What Materials Do You Prefer? Ring materials such as metals and diamonds affect the amount you’ll spend on your engagement ring. When deciding how much to spend, you’ll need to consider what ring materials you and your partner prefer, how much they cost and how to choose an option that matches your aesthetic desires with a price you can afford. Metals In general, platinum and palladium rings are the most expensive metals, with gold, including yellow, rose and white, coming in second. Cobalt and tantalum are less costly metals, and stainless steel and titanium rings are the most affordable, which can help cut engagement ring costs and save money. Diamond The most crucial consideration in most engagement rings is the diamond — the most expensive element. Diamonds are typically priced according to the 4Cs: cut, clarity, color and carat. Cut refers to the way a jeweler cuts a diamond to reflect light. More intricate cuts, rated 10 on the American Gem Society (AGS) scale, will be more expensive than lower-rated cuts. Diamonds with better clarity ratings or unique colorings may cost more than those with lower ratings. For example, a vivid yellow diamond ring may cost upward of $16,000 per carat, while a regular white diamond might sell for $1,000 per carat. Generally, the more a diamond weighs in carats, the more it will cost. Diamond prices typically move between weight groupings. For example, a diamond weighing between 0.01 to 0.90 carats will cost the same, but the price jumps for diamonds weighing between 0.98 to 1.5 carats. Where Will You Buy Your Engagement Ring? Where you buy your engagement will factor into how much you plan to spend. A ring from a high-end jeweler like Harry Winston Inc. or Tiffany & Co. may cost tens of thousands more than one from a brand-name retail store or local jeweler. Additionally, buying in-store versus online may offer different pricing options for engagement rings. The BriteCo™ survey showed that 81% of ring buyers prefer in-person sales, with 9% opting for online-only retailers and 11% purchasing from a known jeweler’s website. Because of distribution costs, an engagement ring online may be 30% to 40% cheaper, but buying from a trusted brand or local jeweler offers more security. Should You Insure Your Engagement Ring Purchase? Your insurance premiums should also factor into your budget for an engagement ring. High-value pieces require higher monthly premiums. But compared to other types of insurance, getting specialty jewelry coverage is very affordable, ranging from 0.5% to 1.5% of your ring’s appraised value. Many people believe that their homeowners or renters insurance will fully cover their engagement ring if something happens to it. But the average coverage provided by homeowners or renters insurance for fine jewelry is approximately $1,500. This falls significantly short of the average cost of an engagement ring, leaving you with substantial out-of-pocket costs if your ring is damaged, lost or stolen. Dedicated or specialty jewelry insurance ensures that you are covered for the full replacement cost of the piece. Look for a policy with no deductible that also covers preventative maintenance and repairs. It’s easy to get affordable engagement ring insurance online. Before applying for jewelry insurance, you must have your engagement ring appraised. You can get an appraisal online, at the jewelry store where you purchased the ring or through a professional certified appraiser. You will pay a small fee for the appraisal, typically between $50 and $150. Buy a Ring Your Partner Will Love Your engagement ring represents your commitment and connection to your partner. So, while there are archaic ideas about how much you should spend on an engagement ring, the ideal ring price ultimately depends on your budget and your partner’s style preferences. Regardless of how much you spend on a ring, ensure that you get comprehensive jewelry insurance to protect your investment. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

November 02, 2022 01:03 PM Eastern Daylight Time

A Simple Guide to Permanent Jewelry

Benzinga

One glance at TikTok and you’re likely to see stories about permanent jewelry. This trend is taking over the jewelry scene, and people are waiting in line for hours just to have a piece of jewelry welded to their body. What is permanent jewelry, and why is it so popular? You’ll learn everything you need to know about the trend in this guide to permanent jewelry. What is Permanent Jewelry? Permanent jewelry is a type of jewelry that is welded onto the wearer, a popular example being forever bracelets or friendship bracelets. Getting the jewelry put on is an easy and totally pain free process. The jewelry is made from dainty, delicate chains and can be put on your wrist, neck, finger or ankle. You can add small charms to personalize the jewelry even more. The idea behind permanent jewelry is that it never comes off, and it becomes a part of your everyday wear. You wear it night and day. For instance, a permanent or forever bracelet is welded together at both ends on your wrist, and you will never have to worry about taking it off and putting it back on. If you decide that you no longer want to wear the jewelry, you will have to cut it off. But as long as you have it on, it’s like having your favorite jewelry with you at all times! Where Can You Get Permanent Jewelry? Not all jewelry stores offer permanent jewelry, so if you want a welded bracelet, ankle bracelet, ring or necklace, you will have to do a little research in your local area. You can look online for jewelry stores that offer permanent jewelry, talk to specialty stores in your area or keep a watch on social media for pop-up stores that offer the product. Where Are the Most Popular Areas to Wear Permanent Jewelry? The most popular places to get permanent jewelry are on the wrists, ankles, and fingers. However, you can get it done anywhere on your body. Some people even get it welded onto their teeth! Advantages of Permanent Jewelry Things don’t become hot trends unless there are advantages that people can identify with. And the welded bracelet trend has plenty of them. Here are a few you may not have considered. Effortless Jewelry Addition Have you ever lost your favorite piece of jewelry? If you have, you understand one of the biggest advantages of permanent jewelry. Because you won’t have to put it on and take it off every day, the chances of losing it are minuscule. And that effortlessness extends into other aspects of jewelry wearing. You will no longer have to struggle with the clasp every day as you put on your bracelet. Instead, it will already be sitting ever-so-pretty on your wrist. Commemorating Special Occasions Some people get tattoos to commemorate special occasions. They may get a tattoo when their child is born, on the day they married or to remember some special occasion. But tattoos aren’t the only way to commemorate a special person or occasion. When you get a permanent bracelet welded onto your wrist, it can serve as a special reminder of a friendship, a major life event or an occasion you want to remember such as bridal showers and bachelorette parties. The same is true for a permanent necklace, ring or ankle bracelet. And by adding a special charm, it can add even more meaning. Representing an Important Time or Person Everyone remembers loved ones in their own way. They may keep mementos from someone they loved who is no longer with them, or they may celebrate their life at a certain time of year. The same is true for celebrations — when you reach a difficult goal or get that promotion you’ve been vying for, you likely want a way to remember it. Permanent jewelry is a great way to remember someone who is no longer with you and mark an important milestone such as getting through a difficult time. The jewelry can also be used to mark joyous times in your life. Disadvantages of Permanent Jewelry Along with advantages, permanent jewelry has a few disadvantages you should be aware of. Not Interchangeable When you wear a permanent necklace and it doesn’t quite go with the top you want to wear, you won’t have the option of trading it out for one that does. Permanent jewelry is just that — permanent — and that’s why you should choose jewelry you can wear with a variety of clothes and styles. The only Removal is to Break it What happens when you get tired of wearing your permanent jewelry? You have to cut it off — literally. Because the jewelry is welded onto you, the only way to remove it is to cut it off. Luckily, the chains that are used in this type of jewelry are thin and delicate, so you can cut off the jewelry with a pair of scissors. But once you cut it off, you can’t put it back on. The good news? You can take it to a jeweler who does permanent fine jewelry and have it welded to your arm, leg, ankle or finger again. How Long Will Permanent Jewelry Last? Permanent jewelry is made to last. Because people want to wear the jewelry for a long time, it is made with high-quality materials like solid gold, sterling silver, stainless steel and other metals that are durable and long-lasting. You can even swim with your permanent jewelry. However, you should be careful not to pull on it or catch it on anything. As long as you take care of your jewelry, it should last for as long as you want to wear it. Keep Your Permanent Jewelry Protected Do you have a special occasion or person to commemorate? Do you want to create something special to mark the date when you reached a goal? Or maybe you just want to enjoy the ease of being able to wear beautiful jewelry every day without having to struggle with clasps or remember where you left it. If you decide permanent jewelry is right for you, don’t forget to insure it. Jewelry insurance is an affordable way to ensure your investments are protected. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

November 02, 2022 12:58 PM Eastern Daylight Time

HIBBETT | CITY GEAR 2022 SOLE SCHOOL COMMUNITY GIVEBACK PROGRAM SPONSORS 92 HIGH SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE

Hibbett, Inc.

Hibbett, Inc., (NASDAQ:HIBB), a Birmingham based premium footwear and athleisure retailer with more than 1,100 Hibbett and City Gear stores nationwide, today announced the launch of the 2022 Sole School initiative in partnership with Nike, supporting 92 underserved high schools and athletic programs nationwide. The philanthropic Sole School program was created for Hibbett and City Gear stores to directly connect with schools in need, in their local neighborhood and provide both financial and intellectual resources. “We founded the Sole School initiative in 2015 as a grassroots program at City Gear, to connect with schools that did not have the basic resources needed for their athletic programs,” said Ben Knighten, Senior Vice President, Store Operations, Hibbett. “Each year our dedicated leaders continue to grow the reach of our program and we hear from educators, coaches and students about the positive impact Sole School has had on their students.” This year, in partnership with Nike, Hibbett has pledged more than $500, 000 to support the 2022 class of 92 Sole Schools. Each school will be gifted a financial donation to be used toward much needed supplies such as athletic equipment, school materials, footwear, team apparel and other essentials. Hibbett and City Gear leaders will present checks in person to each of the recipient schools through the end of December. Since the Sole School program began more than 8 years ago, Hibbett and City Gear have positively impacted hundreds of schools and students and provided much needed support. Through mentoring and career opportunities, many students have taken jobs at Hibbett and City Gear and begun their first careers. Hibbett regularly connects with schools and programs in the markets they serve to lend support through philanthropy and engagement. “This donation means a lot not only to the kids, but the athletic program and the school. These ladies have been putting in work, day in and day out and the biggest thing is that we just want to be recognized and we are grateful to have been chosen to be a recipient of the Sole School donation,” said Jemiah Harrison, Head Girls’ Basketball Coach, Kenwood High Sole School.“With this donation we are able to purchase team shoes, equipment and other needs that can help rebuild our program here for the Kenwood Lady Knights Girls’ Basketball team.” About Hibbett, Inc.Hibbett, headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, is a leading athletic-inspired fashion retailer with 1,117 Hibbett and City Gear specialty stores, located in 36 states nationwide. Hibbett has a rich history of convenient locations, personalized customer service and access to coveted footwear, apparel and equipment from top brands like Nike, Jordan, and adidas. Consumers can browse styles, find new releases, shop looks and make purchases online or in their nearest store by visiting www.hibbett.com. Follow us @hibbettsports and @citygear on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Contact Details Wendy Yellin pr@hibbett.com Company Website https://www.Hibbett.com

November 01, 2022 10:00 AM Central Daylight Time

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Minuteman Press Florida Franchise Owners Celebrate 15-plus Years in Business

Minuteman Press International Inc

Minuteman Press International is proud to acknowledge the following franchisees in Florida who are celebrating 15 years in business. Below you will find their insights on owning a business as well as their advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs and Minuteman Press franchise owners. Kathy Collier Alford Minuteman Press, Town ‘n’ Country, FL “I am not sure where 15 years has gone. Before I opened my shop in November 2007, I was in retail management for 25 years opening new markets all over the country. When I decided to do something different, all I knew is that I wanted to work for myself. Minuteman Press was in the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 and looked interesting. My brother originally brought Minuteman Press to my attention as I would have never thought about owning a print shop because I did not know anything about the industry. We contacted the Florida Regional VP, went on a few shop tours, and here I am 15 years later! In the beginning, Minuteman Press has a system for growing your business, and I followed it. You must get plugged in! I did not even know what networking meant. I joined and visited various local groups and met so many people in the beginning that I still print for today. I joined a Chamber of Commerce; I got involved in philanthropy groups that I never had time for in my corporate life. I got involved in the community around my shop, and all of these experiences have been super rewarding. I would never have thought that owning my own printing franchise could help me grow as a person. I learned about all of these amazing things that I did not even know were going on, and I feel super blessed. Minuteman Press also has systems in place to help with pricing and growing my customer base. The Minuteman Press FLEX software has helped tremendously; FLEX has taken us to a whole new level of technology, pricing, emailing, invoicing, etc. If I was to dole out any advice to a new owner it would be to: Teach your staff customer service and treat them right; you cannot do this alone (they are part of my family) Get to know your neighborhood, join groups, and get involved Do the things that have worked that Minuteman Press has already proven can work Build relationships and customer referrals (referrals are the best compliments you can get) Use SEO to your advantage Work hard and you will earn it!” Ken & Lisa Rose Minuteman Press, Clermont, FL Ken Rose is the former Co-Director of Training for Minuteman Press International. Ken and his wife Lisa moved to Florida and from Long Island and they have now owned Minuteman Press in Clermont for 15+ years. Ken shares the following advice that carried over from his time at Minuteman Press International that has helped him achieve success and longevity over the years as a Minuteman Press franchisee: No matter what is going on, you have to have a positive attitude Plan your day the night before and arrive early Do what you say you’re going to do, and do it (Roy Titus, co-founder, Minuteman Press International) Be proud of what you do & always tell people who you are & what you do (Roy Titus) Be active in the community through clubs and organizations, and be visible Pay yourself a fair wage (Roy Titus) Jeff Reich Minuteman Press, Cape Coral, FL Jeff Reich has been the owner of Minuteman Press in Cape Coral, FL for 15+ years. Short and sweet, the advice Jeff shares is as follows: Understand your customers' expectations and exceed them Be persistent Deliver great quality In congratulating these owners, Florida Regional Vice President Larry Trimble says, “I am thrilled to be able to celebrate these impressive milestones with Kathy, Ken & Lisa, and Jeff as well as all of the incredible Minuteman Press franchisees across Florida who have achieved such accomplishments. It is a pleasure to be able to support them with their businesses and I look forward to continuing to do so.” For more information on #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and to see more Minuteman Press franchise reviews, visit https://minutemanpressfranchise.com. Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

November 01, 2022 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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