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Revenue Management Solutions Reveals Groundbreaking Comparisons to Pre-Pandemic QSR Performance

Revenue Management Solutions

First-half 2023 traffic is down by nearly 20% compared to 2019 Average check increases of more than 40% contribute to higher sales Revenue Management Solutions, a world leader in addressing profitability challenges for the restaurant industry, has unveiled groundbreaking insights with a comparative analysis of current Quick-Service Restaurant (QSR) performance with pre-pandemic levels. RMS compared sales, traffic and average check in the first halves of 2022 and 2023 to the same period in 2019, shedding light on how the extreme market forces of the past three years have affected the industry. “Most of the industry compares month-over-month or year-over-year data. For example, August 2023 traffic was down just half a percent compared to 2022,” said RMS Senior Vice President Richard Delvallée. “This approach reveals gradual changes but not the seismic shifts our comparisons indicate. The landscape has indeed changed for QSR and its customer base.” Not back to normal Standard indices suggest consumers have resumed pre-pandemic behavior. However, the RMS analysis found otherwise. Here are some key observations: QSR traffic is down nearly 20% (18.4%) when comparing June 2023 to June 2019, with traffic consistently trending downward since January 2022, when it was just 15.5% lower than 2019. Overall, QSR average check is 40% higher than pre-pandemic. Average check grew by 51% in specific dayparts. Consumer behavior has shifted permanently away from QSR dine-in. The channel lost nearly half of overall traffic in the past two years. Lunch traffic is consistently down by about 20%, likely due to hybrid work. Similarly, breakfast traffic took a nosedive in 2023 compared to last year. Performance by channel Performance is not created equal when comparing QSR channels. RMS’ analysis reveals a drastic shift towards drive-thru long after dining rooms reopened. Drive-thru: Traffic is down an average of 12% in 2023 compared to 2019. Net sales remain positive (+25%) due to steep increases in average check, which is up 42% for the year — jumping as high as 49.5% in January 2023. Drive-thru accounts for 2/3 of QSR revenue. Dine-in: Across 2023, dine-in traffic was down an average of 47%, finishing Q2 at a 43.6% loss. Average check growth was more conservative — up 36%, keeping net sales in negative territory (-25%). Takeout: Traffic is down an average of 36% in 2023 compared to 2019, with 42% average check growth and net sales down nearly 10%. “Pandemic dine-in restrictions forced a complete halt to dine-in,” said Delvallée. “As restrictions lifted, labor shortages forced operators to limit in-store service. Now, three years out, the convenience-driven behaviors adopted by guests remain and are being reinforced by improved drive-thru technology and operations.” Performance by daypart Daypart analysis further suggests dining behavior has not returned to “normal.” Average check growth of nearly 50% (47.5%) kept net sales positive for all dayparts, but traffic is significantly down. Breakfast: Traffic was down an average of 21.5% in 2023. Breakfast performed much better in 2022, when decreases were just 8% lower than in pre-pandemic 2019. Net sales remain positive (+16%). Lunch: Traffic is down an average of 18% for 2023 compared to 2019. Net sales are up an average of 18%, driven by a 45% growth in average check. Dinner: Traffic remained most stable but still experienced a decrease — down 15% across the first half of 2023. Net sales were up an average of 25%. Upcoming Pricing Pressure Price increases have been pivotal in sustaining QSR revenue, but how much can customers bear before breaking? When RMS surveyed over 1,000 US consumers, 31% reported spending less at restaurants. Among those consuming less, 1 in 2 are doing so by ordering less frequently from restaurants. “Going into the last quarter of 2023, operators have to be very surgical in their pricing strategy,” notes Delvallée. “This data will undoubtedly help restaurants adapt to the new landscape and enter 2024 stronger.” About Revenue Management Solutions Revenue Management Solutions specializes in delivering actionable insights and providing solutions that drive sales, streamline costs and maximize profitability. With a data-driven approach, RMS supports iconic brands and emerging concepts in over 40 countries, spanning more than 100,000 locations. For more information on how RMS helps executives and finance professionals in the restaurant industry overcome profitability challenges, visit revenuemanage.com. Contact Details Center Reach Communications Tracy Henderson +1 720-989-3530 tracy@centerreachcommunication.com Company Website https://www.revenuemanage.com

September 14, 2023 08:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Marketplacer Helps FINN Give Refurbished Electronics A Second Life

Marketplacer

Marketplacer, a global technology platform that enables brands, retailers, suppliers, communities, and innovators to build and grow successful online marketplaces at scale, is proud to announce today that one of the most well-known brands in Norway - FINN - is experiencing record growth on its new Marketplacer-powered e-commerce site for used smartphones and accessories, FINN Nybrukt. Based in Oslo, Norway, FINN is the country’s largest online marketplace, allowing consumers to purchase anything from cars to houses to general merchandise. In February 2023, the company expanded these offerings with the launch of FINN Nybrukt, a new e-commerce marketplace for used smartphones and accessories, where buyers can choose from a variety of pre-owned, refurbished phones, and sellers can help their used phones find a second “life” and avoid the landfill, which is a key mission for FINN. Essentially functioning as a boot-strapping startup within the larger Schibsted family of brands, the team at FINN considered building an e-commerce platform on its own. Instead, the team decided that its business objectives would be better served by choosing a technology partner that it could collaborate with in order to meet its business objectives. FINN chose Marketplacer because the company’s fast, flexible and easily-scalable marketplace platform technology aligned perfectly with FINN’s accelerated time-to-market target. “FINN was already a household name in Norway, but what the team was looking to do with FINN Nybrukt was a new adventure,” said Marketplacer CEO and Co-Founder Jason Wyatt. “We have a deep understanding of the different needs and approaches start-ups have compared to their more established corporate counterparts. FINN knows how to sell almost anything and we know how to create the infrastructure to make it happen and how to make it happen fast.” Ultimately, FINN was able to launch its new Marketplacer-powered e-commerce platform in less than six months and the site continues to experience a tremendous uptick in interest over the first few months of operations. In fact, while July is traditionally a slow month for sales in Norway, FINN Nybrukt saw an all-time high in sales. “We are always looking for new business models for marketplaces and the demand for refurbished electronics is hot,” according to Emilie Høstmark, team lead for refurbished electronics at FINN/Schibsted’s Nordic Marketplaces division. “Since so many people have used electronics, giving them a simple way to re-circulate them not only makes economic sense, but also helps the environment by reducing e-waste. The partnership also enables us to scale and expand into other countries across the region which was a key consideration for us.” Following the success of its refurbished smartphones marketplace, FINN plans to expand into additional categories, including tablets, smartwatches and AirPods, with the potential to further expand into gaming equipment and more. The company is also looking to expand geographically, leveraging its sister marketplaces across the Nordic region. The FINN Nybrukt marketplace is live and interested sellers in the Nordics can find more information here. About Marketplacer Marketplacer is a global technology Software as a Service (SaaS) platform equipped with all the tools and functionality needed to build successful and scalable online marketplaces, at speed. To date, Marketplacer has helped build and deploy over 100 Marketplaces connecting over 13,000 businesses worldwide. The Marketplacer platform exists to make growth simple, from implementing marketplace strategies such as shipment from drop-ship sellers, adding new categories or third-party range extension, through to consolidating markets and rolling out modern revenue models such as recurring memberships that allow businesses to grow faster and beyond the constraints of capital inventory. Born and bred from the award-winning BikeExchange, the biggest online marketplace for anything and everything bike, founders Jason Wyatt and Sam Salter saw the opportunity to license the online software platform and apply it to new marketplaces. Marketplacer is responsible for the creation of online e-commerce solutions and business transformations of companies around the world. Visit www.marketplacer.com for more information. About FINN FINN.no is Norway's largest online marketplace with almost 500 employees and was founded in 2000. Ever since, FINN has gained enormous popularity among Norwegians, its reputation is one of Norway's strongest and almost every Norwegian has a relationship with FINN. Every year Norwegians spend an average of almost 33 hours on FINN.no. and more than 14 million ads are published. FINN has the #1 position in the markets they are in and connects millions of buyers and sellers. Whether it is to buy or sell products, looking for a house or a new job, browse cars or boats, or dreaming of the next holiday - FINN offers the opportunity to realize dreams and make sustainable choices. As part of Schibsted Nordic Marketplaces, which consists of strong, local marketplaces across the Nordics, FINN also has a cross-Nordic perspective and view. Contact Details Marketplacer Press Inquiries: Michael Herrera michael.herrera@marketplacer.com Company Website https://www.marketplacer.com/

September 12, 2023 12:00 AM Mountain Daylight Time

Unleashing Pet Industry Trends to Keep Your Furry Friend Healthy, Happy & Pampered

YourUpdateTV

A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/Z2YHiW3ehKw Pets are undeniably cherished members of our families and ensuring their happiness, health and comfort is a top priority. In today's world, our furry, feathered, and scaly companions live the good life alongside us, and we strive to provide them with the very best—from their favorite treats to specialized diets, stylish collars, interactive toys and even high-tech gadgets. But what's the next big thing for your beloved pet? That's where SUPERZOO comes in, the pet industry's premier retail event that sets the stage for the latest trends and groundbreaking new products ready to elevate your pet's lifestyle to new heights! With pet spending on the rise, the range of trending products is ever-expanding—from pet health solutions and grooming tools to groundbreaking advancements featuring automation and artificial intelligence, the possibilities to enhance your pet's life are endless. A nationwide media tour was conducted to discuss these topics and more live from the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, where SUPERZOO took center stage. Organized by the World Pet Association, SUPERZOO is the pet industry’s largest and most comprehensive pet retail event in North America. Topics that were discussed during the media tour included: The latest pet product news and industry insights live from SUPERZOO Pet products that will be hitting retail shelves later this year How technology is taking pet care to the next level What’s next in pet health and wellness trends, including unique foods and diets, specialized supplements, creative habitats and more For more information, visit www.SUPERZOO.org Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

September 11, 2023 02:15 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Minuteman Press Franchise Owner Mark Barnes Shares Keys to Tripling Sales & Growing Into Million-Dollar Business in Bakersfield, CA

Minuteman Press International Inc.

In the three and a half years since Mark Barnes purchased the Minuteman Press franchise in Bakersfield, CA located at 4500 Easton Drive, he has more than tripled his sales. Mark shares, “Before the acquisition in December of 2019, the prior year’s sales totaled just under $500,000. Our current 12-month sales (as of August of 2023) is just over $1.75 million.” In 2023, Mark became one of the newest members of the Minuteman Press International President’s Club for top performers (based on 2022 yearly sales). Mark shares his keys to growing the business as well as his journey to Minuteman Press in Bakersfield. He also gives his thoughts on the printing industry today, what it’s like owning a business in Bakersfield, the ongoing franchise support he’s received from Minuteman Press, and more. What does it mean to you to be a member of the Minuteman Press President’s Club? Mark Barnes: “Making the President’s Club has always been a goal from the very beginning! We knew it wouldn’t be easy and it would take a lot of hard work and a little time, but we knew with the right team, and the right approach, it was only a matter of time before we got it. 3 years in, and we made it!” What are the 3 biggest keys to your sales growth and success? Mark Barnes: “Our sales growth success has been through a variety of factors. I feel like we have taken an ‘all of the above’ approach. We incrementally increased our ad spend, and tested and adjusted as necessary We took a focused approach on our networking opportunities We added product lines and revenue streams to our offering mix, and we have looked for strategic partnerships that made sense We were already doing wholesale print for what you might consider our competitors, but we are equipped and positioned to do more, better, with our facility and equipment mix, so when we realized there was some untapped potential to expand on that, we actively pursued those opportunities as well. If we don’t get the account directly, due to, perhaps, a relationship, we will look to get them indirectly through wholesaling to our competition that can’t offer what we can.” What are your high-demand products and key growth areas? Mark Barnes: “We have many high-demand products and services. Our high growth areas have been direct mail marketing and compliance mailings, programs for events, signs, branded apparel, and “operational” things like blueprints. Promotional items have also played a large role.” Why do you think printing remains so vital to businesses today? Mark Barnes: “Print remains vital because it drives behavior. Think about your daily life, do you stand in the wine aisle and judge a wine by its label when looking for a decent wine? Imagine if all of those labels were blank and you just had rows of bottles, how would you ‘know’ what to choose? You wouldn’t. If this is you, you are relying on print to drive your behavior. Maybe you casually look at a speed limit sign to adjust your driving speed, those are printed folks, and you have just relied on print to change your behavior in that moment. Print is ubiquitous and has been around all of us our entire lives; for that reason, print has an inherent trust built in because we rely on it day in and day out, and we don’t even realize it. I have had people ask me if print was dying and I asked, ‘Why because the credit card companies want you to go ‘green’ by paying your bills online?’ They certainly do this, but they turn around and send you all of these offers for new credit cards via direct mail, because they know direct mail works to drive revenues and new acquisitions. Need more proof that print is here to stay? Just ask the savvy marketers that rely on us for their campaigns, and even their clients’ campaigns. Spend a day in our office and you will see how high emotions can run when a marketer has waited until the last minute for something, or when blueprints are needed to submit plans by a deadline, and then ask yourself why these people bring us food and snacks as a way of saying thank you. How many businesses have their clients bringing them food? Print is vital – and everyone from marketers to admins that need to make sure they have the things they need for their team – understands this.” How would you best describe your business community in Bakersfield? Mark Barnes: “I would put our business community up against any in the nation. We have a robust and growing business community in both our local Bakersfield area and our county as a whole. In fact, this entire region is that way. The San Joaquin Valley where we are located feeds the world when it comes to many fruits and vegetables and nuts. The scale of the reach of businesses here blows my mind. Maybe more importantly, our business community is active and involved, supports one another, and I am honored to have developed personal relationships with so many of the business owners and leaders here. Many have become friends, and even mentors (whether they realize it or not).” What was your previous background and why did you choose Minuteman Press? Mark Barnes: “I was in the corporate world in the oil and gas industry for nearly 15 years. Prior to acquiring Minuteman Press, I was the Regional Manager for an oil and gas manufacturer and supplier of key products for the industry. I was tasked with leading a turnaround effort in that role where the company was looking to regain market share. I earned the trust of the tenured staff, got some wins early, and then we added a completely new product line that I had background with from a previous career. After getting market share with that product line, we then identified other locations to expand. We opened a new location a few hours away, secured the business we were going after there, and began due diligence on the next location. I was traveling back and forth to our manufacturing facility in Texas and learned a ton about manufacturing processes in general, being lean, and I felt like there was a lot of overlap with Minuteman Press. Minuteman Press is a manufacturer and I felt like there were a lot of similarities – the processes, the tenured staff in place, the reputation and book of business in place, and I felt like Minuteman Press was simply producing ‘a different widget’ and that the transition would be relatively smooth as a result. Of course, we didn’t account for a global pandemic three months after taking over, supply chain issues, employee shortages, and those things. With that said, because of my corporate experience and with the support of Minuteman Press, we were well-equipped to manage through these challenges when they did come up. As you can see, we managed through them relatively successfully. We continue to learn and improve as we go. That’s what it’s all about, continuous improvement.” What has the franchise support from Minuteman Press been like for you? Mark Barnes: “The support from Minuteman Press has been great. Obviously, something like the pandemic presented many challenges for all businesses, but being new in business for myself, the support we received was critical. They rolled out new programs; they provided marketing support and operational support when we needed it; and my favorite part has been the best practice training we continue to get regionally. Every 3-6 months, we have the 54 owners in my region get together and exchange best practices on just about everything from marketing, operations, product/service mix, staffing, accounting, etc. This has been vital as the different owners have their own experiences and insights that we get to learn from. They are also at different locations in the region so we get to see how they have their operation set up and it just goes a long way with exposure to new ideas or confirming what we are already doing. The President’s Club meeting was also important because those owners were top performers and the advice and conversations there, along with the new relationships established, have elevated us even further.” What are the biggest personal and professional rewards of owning your business? Mark Barnes: “The biggest personal reward of owning my own business is simply fulfilling the long-standing desire to own my own business. I’ve always been entrepreneurial and I feel so good every single day that I am in control of my own destiny. I love that I’m able to help provide for staff that can then provide for their families, and that we are able to help our business partners provide for their families (because at the end of the day we are helping businesses grow or become more efficient, and that improves their own lives by extension). Even when things are hard or stressful, that feeling overrides all of that for me, and I feel lucky. Professionally, I’m just proud to have developed great new friendships and mentorships in the business community here. I’ve been able to give back in various ways; I’m on the board of a non-profit, I’m on the board of the Bakersfield Rotary, and these have led to wonderful opportunities to give back but also to learn from such strong and high level leaders; I’m just very fortunate.” What are 1 or 2 key pieces of advice would you give to other owners? Mark Barnes: “My biggest piece of advice for other Minuteman Press owners is to think big. We look at ourselves as commercial printers, marketers and designers. We are not a quick copy model; we are a commercial level organization helping other organizations achieve their business goals by being a trusted and valued partner of theirs. We look to align ourselves with organizations as partners – the Robin to their Batman – supporting them from recruiting employees and marketing their value propositions in the marketplace to supporting their operations internally with critical items used in the day-to-day operation of the enterprise. We don’t need the limelight; we just aim to add value to the full life cycle of a given day in their operation. As our clients succeed, we will succeed… so we have a vested interest in their success and making sure we are acting as a good partner in every way we can.” Minuteman Press in Bakersfield is located at 4500 Easton Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93309. For more information, visit their website: https://minuteman.com/us/locations/ca/bakersfield/ 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

September 08, 2023 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Newport Beach Plastic Surgeons Dr. Joseph Cerni and Dr. Nadir Qazi Sued for Fraud and Retention of Stolen Property

Stone LLP

Karen A. Sunday & Associates Inc., a well-regarded commercial real estate broker, recently filed a multi-count lawsuit against Dr. Joseph S. Cerni and Dr. Nadir Qazi, along with their affiliated medical practices and others, for failing to pay, and unlawfully withholding, an earned real estate commission. The lawsuit alleges fraud, breach of contract and unlawful retention of stolen property, among other counts. According to the lawsuit, in May 2022, Dr. Nadir Qazi reached out to Karen Sunday, President of Karen A. Sunday & Associates, seeking her expertise to acquire a building for his Newport Beach cosmetic surgery practice, the Qazi Cosmetic Center. Responding quickly, Sunday reached out to one of her long-time clients, well-known Newport Beach plastic surgeon, Dr. Joseph S. Cerni, owner of Forever Ageless in Newport Beach, inquiring about his interest in selling his office to Qazi. According to court documents, in July 2022, Sunday sent a binding letter of intent to both doctors for the sale of the building, located at 20271 Southwest Birch Street, Suite 100, in Newport Beach with a sale price of $4.75 million. The lawsuit contains various transactional details, including the purchase price, deposit contingencies, escrow conditions, and most crucially, the broker commission. As part of the agreement, Sunday was set to receive a 4% commission from Cerni. Additionally, Court documents allege Qazi was to pay an additional 2% commission for his participation in the transaction. Neither Cerni nor Qazi ever paid for the brokerage services rendered by Sunday and instead aided and abetted each other by unlawfully withholding Sunday’s earned commission. According to the complaint on file in Orange County Superior Court, when the sale closed in December 2022, both Dr. Cerni and Dr. Qazi reneged on their commitment, denying Sunday her rightfully earned commission totaling $285,000. The lawsuit sheds light on the doctors’ intentional deceit, alleging they misled Sunday with a promise to pay their respective commissions to Sunday upon the close of escrow yet failed to do so. The lawsuit seeks damages of no less than $4 million, citing California’s fraud statute in addition to the breach of contract claims. Sunday is represented by Elliott H. Stone, Esq., of Stone LLP, in Irvine California. The lawsuit names among the defendants: Joseph S. Cerni, D.O. a Professional Corporation, JSC Holdings LLC, Rockitgram LLC, Belle Vie Wellness and Medical Aesthetics Inc., Beautiful Reflections Inc., Forever Ageless, Inc., Nubella Med Spa, Inc., Pure Fix Medical Institute, Inc., Qazcorp, Qazi Cosmetic and Monumental Investments LLC. Karen Sunday & Associates, Inc., is a commercial real estate broker specializing in both Tenant and Landlord Representation headquartered in Newport Beach, California. Karen’s expertise is in the leasing and sales of office, industrial, and retail real estate in Southern California. More information at karensunday.com. Stone LLP is a law firm that represents businesses throughout California in complex litigation involving business, construction, real estate, and employment disputes. Download a copy of the lawsuit here and at LawsuitPressRelease.com. Contact Details LawsuitPressRelease.com John P. David +1 888-859-6637 john@LawsuitPressRelease.com Company Website https://stonellp.com/

September 05, 2023 11:16 AM Pacific Daylight Time

BOUNDARY BREAKING BEAUTY BRAND, THE LIP BAR, DEBUTS IN OVER 3,000 CVS STORES NATIONWIDE

The Lip Bar

TLB, the beauty brand pioneering in maximum impact cosmetics, announces its expansion with retail partner CVS. Following TLB ’s continued success with current retail partners Target and Walmart, the brand has recently been named the largest Black-owned brand available at Target in 2023. Now the indie brand breaking barriers in promoting inclusive beauty standards will have its largest in-store retail presence to date in 3,300 CVS locations nationwide. Customers will have access to The Lip Bar ’s range of award-winning and best-selling lipsticks and lip glosses, intentionally formulated for all complexions. In-store displays will feature product education highlighting the longevity of The Lip Bar ’s clean, vegan, and cruelty-free product formulations, and extensive shade ranges, all made with the consumer in mind. To celebrate The Lip Bar ’s retail expansion and further building the brands longstanding community of confident ‘Bawse’ women, the brand is hosting a cash and product giveaway with a grand prize of $3,000, to coincide with the 3,300-store launch, on September 4 th through September 15 th, for customers who share their lip product purchased at a CVS store. “We are excited to take The Lip Bar nationally in over 3,000 CVS stores and continue growing the brand to be accessible for all beauty lovers nationwide. What started as developing lipsticks in my kitchen over ten years ago, to touring cross country in The Lip Bar mobile truck, it’s beautiful to reach the masses with an amazing retail partner like CVS, who share our mission to drive innovation forward and create beauty solutions for everyone to experience our number one selling lip products that empower our supporters!” shared The Lip Bar Founder and CEO, Melissa Butler “The Lip Bar’s continued success and expansion into CVS stores is an exciting representation of the continued demand for a brand that connects with its community of diverse beauty lovers at their nearest convenience. We are excited as The Lip Bar is already the largest Black-owned brand in its existing retail partners, and we’re looking forward to making history with CVS.” said Lauren DeVor, The Lip Bar’s Director of Sales Since launching in 2012, The Lip Bar has challenged the beauty standard by creating innovative, clean, and exciting products to represent all beauty lovers, growing from lip products to eye, face, and skincare. Founder Melissa Butler strives to deliberately cater to women who have like her, write their own story, and live their unfiltered truth to achieve success. Following launching in select Target stores in 2018 and Walmart stores in 2021, The Lip Bar has garnered cult status with TLB’s matte liquid lipstick Bawse Lady as the retailer’s #1 red lipstick across all multicultural color cosmetics brands, matte liquid lipstick Rich Auntie as the #1 innovation at Target, and TLB has consistently remained the #1 independent, Black owned beauty brand amongst all multicultural color cosmetics. In September 2022, TLB’s parent company, The Lip Bar Inc. announced that it had raised an oversubscribed $6.7M fundraising round to further grow its house of brands including TLB. The funding positioned TLB for growth in both existing and new retail channels, leading to the expansion with CVS. Butler plans to scale and grow her business while continuing to disrupt the beauty industry, challenge societal norms of the past continuously and engage with TLB’s core consumer. About The Lip Bar TLB is a beauty brand started in the kitchen of Founder and CEO, Melissa Butler while working on Wall Street. Since her early days of developing formulations, The Lip Bar has become a pioneer on clean beauty and inclusion, proudly founded and owned by a self-made Woman of Color. Since its launch in 2012, Butler has been on a mission to change the way people think about beauty. Believing that all beauty brands have the capacity to represent all beauty lovers, while creating clean and exciting products. Contact Details First and Last PR thelipbar@firstandlastpr.com Company Website http://www.thelipbar.com

September 05, 2023 08:57 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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News Release

Toggle3D.ai secures new revenue source with addition of generative AI photo rendering

Toggle3D.ai Inc

Toggle3D chief product officer Dasha Vdovina joined Steve Darling from Proactive to discuss a significant breakthrough in the company's artificial intelligence (AI) lab for generative AI photo rendering. Vdovina shared how this innovation is set to drive substantial revenue growth as part of the exclusive Toggle Pro Paid Subscription plan. Vdovina explained that this revolutionary AI tool enables users to achieve realistic photo rendering for their 3D models, whether they are pre-textured or not. By uploading a 3D model, the AI rendering tool swiftly generates high-quality 2D images showcasing various texture design concepts for the user's model. The AI technology situates the 3D object within a 2D scene and applies textures based on user-provided prompts. These 2D images offer users a rapid method for prototyping and visualizing different textures, styles, and materials for their 3D models. Notably, this feature holds immense value for professionals, especially designers in the manufacturing sectors, as they prototype designs for diverse products such as furniture, automotive components, machinery, and more. The ability to swiftly experiment with textures and visual concepts can significantly streamline the design process and enhance creativity within these industries. The integration of AI-driven generative photo rendering into Toggle3D's offerings underscores the company's commitment to innovation and providing practical solutions to its users. As this feature becomes part of the Toggle Pro Paid Subscription plan, Toggle3D is poised to provide enhanced value to its customers while capitalizing on the growing demand for advanced AI-driven design tools in the market. #proactiveinvestors #nextech3d.ai #cse #NTAR #otcqb #metaverse #toggle3d #AIPrototy Contact Details Proactive Canada +1 604-688-8158 na-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

September 04, 2023 01:26 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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SIGMA Announces release of 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary and 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary for Fujifilm X Mount System

SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA

SIGMA Corporation of America is pleased to announce the release of two lenses for the Fujifilm X Mount camera system. The addition of the 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary and 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary expands the line of SIGMA products for Fujifilm X Mount to six versatile lenses. The 100-400mm F5-6.3 is the second zoom lens for Fujifilm X Mount, joining the compact 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary lens; while the 23mm F1.4 joins the fast F1.4 prime lineup, which also includes the 16mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary, 30mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary and 56mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary lenses. The X Mount versions of these lenses join the Leica L and Sony E-mount versions which are currently available for purchase through authorized retailers. The SIGMA 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary ($949 US) and SIGMA 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary ($549 US) will be available for Fujifilm X Mount cameras at Authorized US Dealers on September 21, 2023. Learn more about the SIGMA 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary lens: https://www.sigmaphoto.com/100-400mm-f5-6-3-dg-dn-os-c Learn more about the SIGMA 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary lens: https://www.sigmaphoto.com/23mm-f1-4-dc-dn-c Launch schedule of SIGMA 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary in FUJIFILM X Mount SIGMA Corporation is pleased to announce the launch schedule of the SIGMA 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary in FUJIFILM X Mount. Supplied Accessories: LENS HOOD LH554-01, FRONT CAP LCF-52mm III, REAR CAP LCR II Available Mount: FUJIFILM X Mount Barcode: 0085126 348755 Available: September 21, 2023 * The appearance and specifications of the product are subject to change. #SIGMA #SIGMA23mmContemporary #SIGMAContemporary #SIGMADCDN #SIGMAXMount Long-awaited X Mount addition The SIGMA 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary ― a large-aperture wide-angle lens designed exclusively for APS-C mirrorless cameras ― will now be available for the Fujifilm X Mount. A control algorithm including AF drive and communication speed optimization has been developed specifically for X Mount interchangeable lenses. In addition to realizing high-speed AF, the lens also supports AF-C (Continuous AF) and in-camera aberration correction*. The mount is rubber-sealed to cater for use in a variety of environments. *Function available on supported cameras only. Functionality may vary depending on the camera model. Mount Conversion Service is available to convert other mounts of SIGMA 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary to FUJIFILM X Mount. https://www.sigma-global.com/en/support/purpose/mcs/ [ Key Features ] 1. Large aperture F1.4 brightness and excellent resolution from maximum aperture The SIGMA 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary has an easy-to-use angle of view equivalent to 35mm in 35mm format, as well as the brightness of a large F1.4 aperture and high descriptive power. The optics is composed of 13 elements in 10 groups, including 3 SLD glass elements and 2 aspherical lens elements, to achieve sharp, clear images. The lens delivers excellent resolving power from the maximum aperture. Furthermore, the large F1.4 aperture allows for large, beautiful bokeh effects. The compact, palm-size body allows you to enjoy the rich descriptive power of mirrorless cameras. Careful countermeasures against flare and ghosting enable clear shooting even in backlit environments. 2. Compact body optimized for APS-C mirrorless cameras To take advantage of the mobility of APS-C mirrorless cameras, the lens body is compact and lightweight, with a weight of 335g*, length of 79.2mm*, and filter diameter of 52mm. At the same time, the quality of the lens body itself has not been compromised. The high-precision machining technology of SIGMA's sole production facility in Aizu, Japan, has enabled the lens body to achieve the ideal balance between excellent optical performance based on the latest optical and mechanical design, and compactness. The AF drive system uses a quiet, high-speed stepping motor. The latest algorithm enables quick focusing for easy shooting. * The figures are for X Mount. * The length of a lens is measured from the filter surface to its mount. 3. Expands the variety of APS-C format F1.4 prime lenses The SIGMA Contemporary line offers a wide variety of APS-C format F1.4 prime lenses. All of them share the concept of combining superior resolution with compactness and light weight. By combining them according to your needs, you can build a compact photographic system without compromising image quality. * The figures are for X Mount. * The length of a lens is measured from the filter surface to its mount. [ Additional Features ] • Lens construction: 13 elements in 10 groups (3 SLD, 2 aspherical elements) • Inner focus system • Compatible with high-speed autofocus • Stepping Motor • Compatible with lens aberration correction *Function available on supported cameras only. Available corrections or auto correction functionality may vary depending on the camera model. *On cameras where lens aberration correction is controlled with ‘ON’ or ‘OFF’ in the camera menu, please set all aberration correction functions to ‘ON'(AUTO). • Support DMF and AF+MF • Compatible with AF assist (Sony E-mount only) • Super Multi-Layer Coating • Mount with dust and splash resistant structure • Lens Hood LH554-01 • Designed to minimize flare and ghosting • Every single lens undergoes SIGMA’s proprietary MTF measuring system • 9-blade rounded diaphragm • High-precision, durable brass bayonet mount • "Made in Japan" craftsmanship [ Key Specifications ] The figures below are for the X Mount version. Lens Construction: 13 elements in 10 groups (3 SLD, 2 aspherical elements) Angle of View: 63.4° Number of Diaphragm Blades: 9 (rounded diaphragm) Minimum Aperture: F16 Minimum Focusing Distance: 25cm / 9.8 in. Maximum Magnification Ratio: 1:7.3 Filter Size: 52mm Dimensions (Max. Diam. x Length*): 65.8mm x 79.2mm / 2.6in. x 3.1in. Weight: 335g / 11.8 oz. * The length of a lens is measured from the filter surface to its mount. Launch schedule of SIGMA 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary in FUJIFILM X Mount SIGMA Corporation is pleased to announce the launch schedule of the SIGMA 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary in FUJIFILM X Mount. Supplied Accessories: LENS HOOD LH770-05, FRONT CAP LCF-67mm III, REAR CAP LCR II, PROTECTIVE COVER PT-31 Available Mount: FUJIFILM X Mount Barcode: 0085126 750756 Available: September 21, 2023 * The appearance and specifications of the product are subject to change. #SIGMA #SIGMA100400mmContemporary #SIGMAContemporary #SIGMADGDN #SIGMAXMount Long-awaited X Mount addition The SIGMA 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary, which was created in 2020 as the "Handy Tele Master", the DG DN version of the ultra-telephoto zoom dedicated for full-frame mirrorless cameras, will now be added for the Fujifilm X Mount. With the mirrorless large-aperture F1.4 APS-C size single focal length (16mm, 23mm, 30mm, 56mm), F2.8 zoom (18-50mm), and the addition of this super-telephoto zoom lens, SIGMA's X Mount lens lineup has expanded to six lenses. The new lineup covers a wide range of applications, from wide-angle to ultra-telephoto. A control algorithm including AF drive and communication speed optimization has been developed specifically for X Mount interchangeable lenses. In addition to realizing high-speed AF, the lens also supports AF-C (Continuous AF) and in-camera aberration correction*. The mount is rubber-sealed to cater for use in a variety of environments. *Function available on supported cameras only. Functionality may vary depending on the camera model. The switches have also been optimized for X Mount. The "AF Function Setting Switch" allows the user to select a function while the AF Function Button is pressed on the lens side. Mount Conversion Service is available to convert other mounts of SIGMA 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary to FUJIFILM X Mount. About Mount Conversion Service: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/support/purpose/mcs/ [ Key Features ] 1. Compact ultra-telephoto zoom equivalent to 600mm in 35mm format The SIGMA 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary for X Mount, the sixth lens to be converted to X Mount, is a ultra-telephoto zoom lens covering an angle of view equivalent to 150-600mm in 35mm format. Despite covering the 600mm equivalent ultra-telephoto range, the lens has a compact design with an length of 199.5mm, a maximum diameter of 86mm, and a weight of 1,135g. It enables ultra-telephoto photography utilizing the compact Fujifilm X Mount system. The SIGMA 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary, designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras, can be used with an APS-C format X Mount body to deliver extremely high descriptive performance right up to the extreme periphery. 2. Uncompromising image quality The lens construction of the SIGMA 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary comprises 16 groups and 22 elements, with one FLD and four SLDs used for the effective correction of aberrations and distortions. Built on the latest optical design technology and optimized for mirrorless systems, the lens ensures the same high-resolution image quality all the way to the edges. In addition, it constantly achieves high levels of optical performance and makes the most of its capabilities as a zoom lens in any condition, at every focal length from wide to telephoto, and from close-up shots to telephoto photography. 3. A full range of functionalities that enables smooth and easy ultra-telephoto shooting In addition to a high-speed and smooth AF enabled by the stepping motor optimized to the latest algorithm, the SIGMA 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary incorporates powerful image stabilization (OS) of five steps* built into the lens. When combined with a camera body with image stabilization built in, the lens corrects for pitch and yaw axis rotations, providing even more powerful image stabilization. It also features the AF function setting switch to which the user may select AF lock/AF activation, and the focus limiter switch that allows optimizing the AF range according to the purpose of shooting, Zoom lock switch that fixes the zoom ring at the widest end, preventing it from rotating and causing the lens barrel to extend under its own weight during transportation, OS Switch which the user may switch between Mode 1 for general photography and Mode 2 for motor sports and other applications requiring panning. In addition, the SIGMA 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary supports straight zoom, which allows photographers to zoom in and out by adjusting the hood, enabling intuitive and quick view angle adjustments. It features a “Dual action zoom” which supports both straight zoom and ring zoom. * Based on CIPA guidelines (Measured in 400mm with an APS-C size image sensor) 4. Lightweight & Compact lens body SIGMA designed a light and durable ultra-telephoto zoom lens addition to its Contemporary line. The SIGMA 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary packs functionalities required for angles of view corresponding to focal lengths of 100-400mm in a compact, lightweight body. It is not merely about weight reduction, but the lens is durable, with careful selections to utilize the right materials in the right place. For instance, magnesium alloy is used for the part where a tripod socket is attached, which needs to be very strong. To allow for a pairing with camera bodies of different sizes, a tripod socket, TS-111 kit (sold separately) is available. As this helps reduce any strain on the camera body, photographers can shoot long hours without worrying about it. The tripod socket comes with a strap which also helps reduce strain on the mount when carrying the lens around or during transportation. [ Additional Features ] • Lens construction: 22 elements in 16 groups (1 FLD, 4 SLD) • OS (Optical Stabilizer) function • Inner focus system • Compatible with high-speed autofocus • Stepping motor • Compatible with Lens Aberration Correction *Function available on supported cameras only. Available corrections or auto correction functionality may vary depending on the camera model. *On cameras where lens aberration correction is controlled with ‘ON’ or ‘OFF’ in the camera menu, please set all aberration correction functions to ‘ON'(AUTO). • Super Multi-Layer Coating • AF function button • Focus Limiter • AF function setting switch • OS switch • Zoom lock switch • Mount with dust and splash resistant structure • LENS HOOD LH770-05 • PROTECTIVE COVER PT-31 • Compatible with TRIPOD SOCKET TS-111 Kit • Designed to minimize flare and ghosting • Every single lens undergoes SIGMA's proprietary MTF measuring system • 9-blade rounded diaphragm • High-precision, durable brass bayonet mount • "Made in Japan" craftsmanship [ Key Specifications ] The figures below are for the X Mount version. Lens Construction: 22 elements in 16 groups (1 FLD, 4 SLD) Angle of View (APS-C): 16.2° (W) - 4.1° (T) Number of Diaphragm Blades: 9 (rounded diaphragm) Minimum Aperture: F22-29 Minimum Focusing Distance: 112cm (W) – 160cm (T) Maximum Magnification Ratio: 1:4.1 (at 400mm focal length) Filter Size: 67mm Dimensions (Max. Diam. x Length*): 86mm x 199.5mm / 3.4 x 7.9 in Weight: 1,135g / 40.0 oz. * The length of a lens is measured from the filter surface to its mount. [Contact] For further information, please contact your local authorized SIGMA Service Station listed at the link below: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/world-network/ [Information] SIGMA Corporation: https://www.sigma-global.com/ SIGMA 23mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary product page: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/lenses/c023_23_14/ SIGMA 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary product page： https://www.sigma-global.com/en/lenses/c020_100_400_5_63/ SIGMA X Mount special page: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/magazine/m_series/others-lenses/fujifilm-x-mount/sigma_xmount_lenses/ ### 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 +1 631-585-1144 SIGMA.PR@Sigmaphoto.com Company Website https://www.sigma-global.com/en/

August 31, 2023 09:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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BELLAMI Launches World's First Professional Grade Hair Extension Care Collection

BELLAMI

BELLAMI, the global leader in hair extensions’ billion-dollar industry, launches BELLAMI Professional Hair Care, the world’s first professional-grade hair extension care collection for in-salon and at-home use. In collaboration with its network of renowned hair stylists, who have close to a million hair extension installs under their belts, BELLAMI developed uniquely formulated, clinically proven extension-driven hair care solutions, designed to double the lifetime of hair extensions, protecting the investment of a growing customer base, while strengthening the health and integrity of natural hair. “There is beauty in innovation,” says John Costanza, Group Vice President of Beauty Industry Group leading the charge for BELLAMI. “We know hair better than any brand on the market. This isn’t just a hair care line that happens to work with extensions. We spent the last three years collaborating with industry professionals, chemists and BELLAMI educators, who work with hair every single day, to perfect the formulas and deliver a comprehensive solution-oriented approach to hair and extension treatment in-salon and at-home.” BELLAMI’s professional and at-home collections are infused with first of its kind H-2™ and proprietary Vita-Seal™ complexes. Unlike other bond-building technologies, the brand’s revolutionary H-2™ Complex contains both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties, rather than just one, which allows formulas to target different areas of damage and achieve maximum results. The Hydrophilic portion balances and reconstructs the hydrogen and ionic bonds fundamental to hair structure, creating a smooth and even surface. The hydrophobic component replenishes lipids stripped from the hair during coloring or heat styling. BELLAMI’s at-home formulas complement the brand’s professional line by offering salon-quality maintenance to protect hair from UV exposure and thermal damage. Each product is designed to seal in the professional H-2™Complex while BELLAMI’s proprietary vitamin-rich Vita-Seal™ Complex locks in nutrients to preserve the hair’s integrity and prevent future breakage, while improving the overall condition and appearance of hair with continued use. BELLAMI Professional Hair Care launches in Canada with ten professional products, available in-salon and at BELLAMI Professional, and eight at-home products which are now available at BELLAMIhair.com and at the BELLAMI Beauty Bar located at 1168 Robson St., Vancouver, BC V6E 1B5, Canada. The collections incorporate clarifying and moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, a scalp detox, treatment masks and a bond fusion system that reduces breakage by up to 63% and tangling by up to 89% (TRI Princeton). All products are paraben-free, sulfate-free, cruelty-free and inclusively formulated for all hair types and textures, and some of the products are vegan and gluten-free. Refill pouches are available for shampoos and conditioners and all aluminum and plastic components are recyclable. ABOUT BELLAMI Founded in 2012 by Nikki Eslami and Julius Salerno, BELLAMI is a global leader of high end, luxurious, ethically sourced and sustainably produced full-cuticle 100% Human Remy hair enhancement solutions for consumers and salon professionals. As the largest hair extensions brand in the world, collaborating with certified hair stylists, BELLAMI offers a full range of clip-in extensions and the four pro hair extension methods - Wefts, Tape-Ins, K-Tips, I-Tips. It is the only brand to have complete control over the sourcing and international manufacturing process, ensuring that all products are ethically sourced and sustainably produced. BELLAMIâs hair enhancement solutions and hair care are available via its e-commerce platform and company-owned stores, the BELLAMI Beauty Bars. BELLAMI is headquartered in Chatsworth, California. ABOUT BEAUTY INDUSTRY GROUP Established in 2004, Beauty Industry Group is an industry leader for professionally installed and DIY hair extensions and related beauty products. Beauty Industry Group's professional products are sold in more than 1,200 stores throughout North America and its collective brands service more than 30,000 salons across over 165 countries. Beauty Industry Group has offices in 6 countries and is headquartered in Salt Lake City, UT. Contact Details Linsey Tilbor Rubin +1 732-991-5294 ltilbor@rellmc.com Company Website https://www.bellamihair.com/

August 30, 2023 08:54 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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BELLAMI Launches World's First Professional Grade Hair Extension Care Collection