Asia Pacific to Add 600 Million New Mobile Subscribers by 2020, Finds Latest GSMA Mobile Economy Study

Mobile Ecosystem Adds $1.3 Trillion in Economic Value to Asia Pacific Economy

SHANGHAI - Thursday, June 30th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The number of mobile subscribers in the Asia Pacific region reached 2.5 billion at the end of last year and will grow to 3.1 billion by 2020, according to a new GSMA study published at GSMA Mobile World Congress Shanghai this week. The new report, ‘The Mobile Economy: Asia Pacific 2016’, finds that 62 per cent of the Asia Pacific population was subscribed to a mobile service in 2015, forecast to rise to almost three-quarters of the population by 2020 as a further 600 million new subscribers are added over the period. It is calculated that mobile technologies and services made up 5.4 per cent of Asia Pacific’s GDP last year, equivalent to $1.3 trillion in economic value; this economic contribution is set to increase to $1.7 trillion by 2020.

“More than half the world’s mobile subscribers are based in Asia Pacific and the region will be the main engine of global subscriber growth for the remainder of the decade,” said Mats Granryd, GSMA Director General. “Rising subscriber penetration, alongside accelerating migration to faster networks and more advanced services, continues to fuel innovation and digitisation across both advanced and emerging markets in this highly diverse region. Mobile is helping Asia build digital societies that allow its citizens to access services, anytime and anywhere – and these mobile-powered digital societies are becoming major drivers of social and economic development.”

Growth in Subscribers, Mobile Broadband and Smartphones Across Asia

Asia Pacific will account for 60 per cent of the one billion unique mobile subscribers1 that will be added to the global total by 2020, with the region continuing to add subscribers at a faster rate than the global average2. The four largest markets in the region – China, India, Indonesia and Japan – together accounted for more than three-quarters of the region’s total subscriber base. India alone is expected to add nearly 250 million new subscribers by 2020 but smaller countries in the region such as Bangladesh, Indonesia, Myanmar and Pakistan will also make major contributions to subscriber growth.

Mobile broadband (3G/4G) accounted for 45 per cent of total mobile connections3 in Asia Pacific last year, forecast to rise to 70 per cent by 2020 as operators continue to invest in 4G network build-outs and subscribers migrate to higher-speed networks. 4G is on track to account for more than a third of total connections in Asia Pacific by 2020. At the end of 2015, the region had 76 live 4G-LTE networks and 20 live VoLTE networks. According to the report, 4G migration is now gathering pace in markets such as Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand. Meanwhile, the region’s 4G pioneers – such as South Korea, Japan and China – are driving the development of 5G mobile technologies in readiness for deployments before the end of the decade.

The number of smartphone connections in Asia Pacific totaled 1.7 billion at the end of 2015,

accounting for 45 per cent of regional connections. China, India and Indonesia have been the main drivers of smartphone growth, helping the region double its overall smartphone base over the last two years. The region will add a further 1.3 billion smartphone connections by 2020, reaching 3 billion, or two-thirds of the region’s total connections base by that point.

Mobile Ecosystem a Rising Contributor to the Asian Economy

The $1.3 trillion in economic value generated by the Asia Pacific mobile industry last year (5.4 per cent of Asia Pacific GDP4) is expected to rise to $1.7 trillion by 2020 as the region continues to benefit from the improvements in productivity and efficiency made possible by increased take-up of mobile services and the adoption of new technologies such as machine-to-machine (M2M).

The mobile ecosystem in Asia also supported 15 million jobs in 2015. This includes workers directly employed in the ecosystem and jobs that are indirectly supported by the economic activity generated by the sector. In addition to the mobile sector’s impact on the economy and labour market, it makes a substantial contribution to public sector funding; approximately $111 billion was raised in the region last year via general taxation.

Asia’s mobile industry is also playing a leading role in delivering digital inclusion and addressing the digital divide. According to the report, there were 1.8 billion citizens across Asia Pacific accessing the internet over mobile devices at the end of last year, equivalent to 45 per cent of the region’s population. It is predicted that a further 800 million people in Asia will connect to the mobile internet by 2020 (63 per cent of expected population). As a result, mobile has become a platform that enables digital identity, financial inclusion, and a range of social and developmental services that are helping to deliver the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)5.

“Mobile is the primary tool for extending connectivity and internet access to all corners of Asia, delivering a myriad of economic and social benefits,” added Granryd. “But there is still work to be done. The mobile industry must work with regulators and ecosystem players to address the key barriers to digital inclusion in Asia Pacific, such as lack of locally relevant content, affordability and a lack of digital skills.”

The new report ‘The Mobile Economy: Asia Pacific 2016’ is authored by GSMA Intelligence, the research arm of the GSMA. To access the full report and related infographics please visit: http://www.gsma.com/mobileeconomy/asiapacific/



About the GSMA

The GSMA represents the interests of mobile operators worldwide, uniting nearly 800 operators with almost 300 companies in the broader mobile ecosystem, including handset and device makers, software companies, equipment providers and internet companies, as well as organisations in adjacent industry sectors. The GSMA also produces industry-leading events such as Mobile World Congress, Mobile World Congress Shanghai and the Mobile 360 Series conferences.

For more information, please visit the GSMA corporate website at www.gsma.com. Follow the GSMA on Twitter: @GSMA.

1 A unique mobile subscriber represents an individual that can account for multiple mobile connections (SIM cards)

2 Subscriber growth rates, 2015-2020. Asia Pacific: 4.5% CAGR; global: 3.9 per cent CAGR

3 A mobile connection refers to an active SIM card registered with a mobile network, including M2M connections. The total number of mobile connections in Asia Pacific reached 3.9 billion in 2015 and is forecast to rise to 5 billion by 2020

4 GDP total includes contribution from mobile operators (1.1%); related industries such as devices and infrastructure players (0.7%); indirect impact (0.6%); and productivity impact (3.0%)

5 In September 2015, the UN introduced a set of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The 17-point plan aims to end poverty, combat climate change and fight injustice and inequality. The GSMA is supporting the SDGs as part of its #betterfuture campaign. http://www.gsma.com/betterfuture/



Contacts

For the GSMA

Charlie Meredith-Hardy

+44 7917 298428

CMeredith-Hardy@webershandwick.com



Ava Lau

+852-2533 9928

alau@webershandwick.com



GSMA Press Office

pressoffice@gsma.com





Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18267/en

ICSC Appoints Bill Kistler as Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Europe, Middle East & Africa

NEW YORK - Friday, July 1st 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) today announced the appointment of Bill Kistler as executive vice president and managing director of EMEA. Kistler will join the leadership team and provide strategic counsel and input on global matters to support the organization’s global footprint. He will report directly to president and CEO, Tom McGee.

“At a time where retail real estate is a catalyst of the global economy, Bill’s deep understanding of matters related to the industry and previous experience growing ULI EMEA will be an asset to ICSC,” said Tom McGee, ICSC’s president and CEO. “We are committed to working with our members in EMEA and Bill’s strong partnerships with media, capital markets and government organizations make him best aligned to lead and expand our presence there.”

Kistler brings more than 30 years of international experience and most recently served as managing partner at UK-based Kistler & Company, providing investment, development and organizational strategy support to the global real estate industry. He also founded the Urban Innovation Network (UIN), a platform connecting cities, universities and business and will continue serving as its non-executive chairman.

“I am pleased to be joining ICSC and look forward to working with the team across EMEA to advance the interests of the retail real estate industry,” Kistler commented. “ICSC members play a vital role in shaping communities and in the wider economy. Helping to create more opportunities for our members to connect, collaborate and share knowledge and ideas is a privilege that I look forward to. ”

Previously, Kistler was a senior partner at Korn/Ferry International leading the Real Estate practice in EMEA. From 2003 - 2009 he was president of the Urban Land Institute–EMEA a non-profit, research and education institute dedicated to the built environment. Prior to this he was General Manager of the Disney Development Company, responsible for Val d’Europe at Disneyland Paris. Throughout his career, Kistler also held senior roles at JMB Properties in Chicago, Cushman & Wakefield in New York and IBM where he oversaw the company’s real estate in New York and Paris.

About ICSC

Founded in 1957, ICSC is the global trade association of the shopping center industry. Its more than 70,000 members in over 100 countries include shopping center owners, developers, managers, investors, retailers, brokers, academics, and public officials. The shopping center industry is essential to economic development and opportunity. They are a significant job creator, driver of GDP, and critical revenue source for the communities they serve through the generation of sales taxes and the payment of property taxes. These taxes fund important municipal services like firefighters, police officers, school services, and infrastructure like roadways and parks. Shopping centers aren’t only fiscal engines however; they are integral to the social fabric of their communities by providing a central place to congregate with friends and family, discuss community matters, and participate in and encourage philanthropic endeavors. For more information about ICSC visit www.icsc.org and for the latest news from ICSC and the industry go to www.thecenterofshopping.com.

Contacts

ICSC

Noelle Malone, 646-728-3540

Nmalone@icsc.org









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18283/en

Construction Begins on Hines and Qatari Diar’s Conrad Washington, D.C. Luxury Hotel at CityCenterDC

 Hines and Qatari Diar start 360-room Herzog & de Meuron-designed Conrad hotel and 30,000 square feet of additional retail space at CityCenterDC

WASHINGTON - Thursday, June 30th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Hines, the international real estate firm, Qatari Diar, the real estate development entity of the Qatar Investment Authority (the co-developers of CityCenterDC), Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Worldwide’s (NYSE: HLT) smart luxury hotel brand, and D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser confirmed today the start of construction of the Conrad Washington, D.C., a 360-room luxury hotel with 30,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space at CityCenterDC; the landmark 10-acre, mixed-use development located in the heart of the nation’s capital. Initial occupancy for the hotel is expected in the first quarter of 2019.

In addition, Hines, Qatari Diar, and Conrad Hotels & Resorts are pleased to announce that Chef Bryan Voltaggio, of Frederick, MD, will be the signature chef for the hotel restaurant, responsible for the concept and menu. Voltaggio is the executive chef and owner (with his business partner, Hilda Staples) of several acclaimed restaurants in Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland, including VOLT, RANGE, AGGIO, Lunchbox, and Family Meal. A James Beard Foundation Award finalist, Voltaggio was also a finalist on Top Chef Season 6 and Top Chef Masters Season 5, and is the co-author of VOLT.Ink and author of HOME.

The Conrad Washington, D.C. marks the seventh building developed by Hines and Qatari Diar at CityCenterDC. Not only does this represent an additional investment by Hines and Qatari Diar in the CityCenter project, it demonstrates the continued commitment to long-term investment in the nation’s capital.

The Conrad Washington, D.C. will further enhance the architectural excellence at CityCenterDC. The lead designers for the Conrad Washington, D.C. are Herzog & de Meuron, led by five senior partners including Pritzker Prize Laureates Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron, with HKS Architects, Inc. as architect of record. The elegant hotel interiors are being designed by Rottet Studio. Turner Construction Company is the project’s general contractor.

“We are excited to break ground on the Conrad Washington, D.C. because it means more jobs and opportunities for District residents and businesses,” said Mayor Bowser. “This development is another positive signal of our growing economy and our emergence as a national leader in hospitality and tourism.”

“We are thrilled with the opportunity to continue our successful partnership with Qatari Diar on our additional investment in the Conrad Washington, D.C.,” said Hines Managing Director Michael Allen, project officer for the Hines/Qatari Diar master developer team.

Commenting on behalf of Qatari Diar Americas, Fabien Toscano, chief executive officer, said, “Commencement of construction on the Conrad Washington, D.C. is a historic milestone for the CityCenterDC project. With exceptional hotel rooms and exclusive retail elements, this new venture is in keeping with our vision of reflecting local characteristics and influences to create a destination designed to enhance the experience of everyone who stays and visits, and to inspire the way they choose to live, work and play for future generations. We are excited for this next phase of the project as we continue to watch it grow into a world-class development set to become a new landmark in one of the world’s most influential cities.”

“We are also pleased to work with Hilton Worldwide as our hotel partner at CityCenterDC,” said Hines Managing Director Jonathan Fuisz. “The Conrad flag has an excellent reputation in the luxury segment, both domestically and internationally, and we are excited to bring the brand to D.C.”

“Conrad is known for creating inspired experiences for our guests in gateway cities and the most sought-after destinations,” said John Vanderslice, global head, Conrad Hotels & Resorts. “Washington, D.C. is one of the few epicenters of political, cultural and economic power in the world, which makes this future hotel the perfect destination for global luxury travelers. We look forward to working with Hines and Qatari Diar introducing Conrad Washington, D.C. to the nation’s capital.”

The initial phase of CityCenterDC is comprised of 191,000 square feet of retail space, 216 for-sale residential units, 458 apartment units, 522,000 square feet of office space, and public open space that was initially occupied in December 2013. CityCenter’s master plan design was led by London-based Foster + Partners, the internationally acclaimed studio for architecture, design and planning, which also designed the office and residential condominium buildings.

The Conrad Washington, D.C. will add an additional 30,000 square feet of retail space that will complement the already successful luxury retail component of the first phase of CityCenterDC. CityCenterDC features a unique mix of local, national and international retail brands, cafes and restaurants with extensive street frontage. Several retail tenants have already entered into negotiations for space in the Conrad Washington, D.C. project.

Hines and Qatari Diar have committed to certain goals established for the project with the District of Columbia for employment of D.C. residents and utilization of District-based businesses:

    Job Creation. Conservatively, the project is estimated to create more than 450 full-time positions during the development and construction period. Following construction, 350 permanent full-time positions are anticipated, along with approximately 200 indirect “spin-off” jobs created as a result of the impact of the project on the surrounding community.
    First Source Commitment. At least 51 percent of new hires related to the design and construction of the project will be District residents.
    CBE Commitment. The development will create significant opportunities for District of Columbia Certified Business Entities (CBE). At least 35 percent of eligible development and construction services will be performed using CBE contractors. CBE development and construction related contracting is estimated to be more than $60 million. In addition, CBE equity partners own 20 percent of the developer equity in the project.

About CityCenterDC

CITYCENTERDC (www.citycenterdc.com) is a unique, pedestrian-friendly, 10-acre mixed-use development, located in the heart of downtown Washington, D.C., on a 4.5-block parcel bounded by New York Avenue, 9th, H and 11th Streets, NW. The initial phase of the project consists of than 191,000 square feet of retail space situated at the base of six buildings that encompass 522,000 square feet of office space, 458 rental apartment units, and 216 condominium units, a public park, a central plaza and pedestrian-oriented streets and alleyways.

Foster + Partners, an international studio for architecture, planning and design based in London, served as the master-plan architect and the design architect for the office and for-sale-housing components. Shalom Baranes Associates, P.C., a Washington-based architectural firm, served as the associate master-plan architect and led the design effort on the residential rental component.

Construction of the project commenced in March 2011, with initial occupancy in December 2013 for the residential buildings and early 2014 for the office and retail components. A joint venture between Clark Construction Group, Smoot Construction of Washington, D.C., and McKissack and McKissack was the general contractor. The Conrad Washington, D.C. is under construction with initial occupancy expected in the first quarter of 2019.

The third component of CityCenterDC will be constructed by the Gould Property Company and its partner, Oxford Properties Group and will consist of 500,000 square feet of office space and 40,000 square feet of additional retail. A start date for this component has not been set.

About Hines

Hines is a privately owned global real estate investment firm founded in 1957 with a presence in 182 cities in 20 countries. Hines has $89.1 billion of assets under management, including $42.5 billion for which Hines provides fiduciary investment management services, and $46.6 billion for which Hines provides third-party property-level services. The firm has 109 developments currently underway around the world. Historically, Hines has developed, redeveloped or acquired 1,126 properties, totaling over 351 million square feet. The firm’s current property and asset management portfolio includes 457 properties, representing over 193 million square feet. With extensive experience in investments across the risk spectrum and all property types, and a pioneering commitment to sustainability, Hines is one of the largest and most-respected real estate organizations in the world. Visit www.hines.com for more information.

About Qatari Diar

QATARI DIAR is a global leader in sustainable real estate, building landmark projects of unrivalled scope and vision. We create vibrant communities dedicated to capturing the hearts and imaginations of the people we serve. These developments are conceived from our commitment to preserving and reflecting local characters and traditions and our visions have created places with a sense of identity and purpose where people aspire to live, work and visit.

Qatari Diar is currently involved in over 39 signature projects in more than 21 countries around the world, with a combined value of over $35 billion. We have created some outstanding, world-class real estate developments in landmark locations across Europe and the Americas. These include several projects in prime locations in London, Paris, Panama, Tunisia and Washington, D.C.

Qatari Diar seeks to harness the world’s greatest architectural and design talent in order to create sustainable communities that will stand the test of time.

www.qataridiar.com.

About Conrad Hotels & Resorts

Conrad Hotels & Resorts is the destination for the new generation of smart luxury travelers for whom life, business and pleasure seamlessly intersect. Conrad offers its guests an innovative way to Stay Inspired through a curated collection of 1, 3, or 5 hour experiences, available through www.StayInspired.com or through the intuitive Conrad Concierge mobile app. Consisting of 26 properties across five continents, Conrad is part of Hilton Worldwide, a leading global hospitality company. Connect with Conrad by booking at www.conradhotels.com. Learn more about the brand by visiting http://news.conradhotels.com or following us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About Herzog & de Meuron

Established in 1978, Herzog & de Meuron is a Swiss architectural office led by five senior partners that is known for its wide range of projects, from the small scale of a private home to the large scale of urban design. Many of their projects are highly recognized public facilities, such as their stadiums and museums; they have also completed several distinguished private projects including apartment buildings, offices and factories. The company’s landmark projects comprise the Olympic Stadium in Beijing (also known as the Bird’s Nest), The Tate Modern in London and the iconic 56 Leonard Street, a new condominium tower in New York’s Tribeca neighborhood. Herzog & de Meuron have received numerous awards for their work including The Pritzker Architecture Prize (USA) in 2001.

About HKS Architects, Inc.

HKS Hospitality Group specializes in the design of sophisticated urban hotels, unique destination resorts and luxurious spas, entertainment, gaming and convention hotels, boutique properties, hospitality interiors and world-class golf clubhouses. With construction underway on five continents, HKS’ hospitality practice is ranked as one of the top in the nation and the world, according to BD World Architecture, Hotel Business and Hotel Design. Operating from 24 offices worldwide, the firm has designed projects in 45 countries, garnering numerous awards and coverage in national and international publications.

About Rottet Studio

Rottet Studio, an international architecture and interior design firm specializing in corporate, hospitality and multifamily projects for the world’s leading companies and brands, designed the interior concept for the Conrad Washington, D.C. The concept carefully blends the historic significance of D.C.’s early American design with the elegant contemporary design of Herzog & de Meuron producing a project fully integrated from exterior to interior experience. Rottet Studio’s previous hospitality projects include The Surrey Hotel and Loews Regency Hotel in New York City, The Beverly Hills Hotel Presidential Bungalows in Beverly Hills, California, and the St Regis Aspen Resort and Residences in Aspen, Colorado.

About Turner Construction Company

With more than 40 years of experience in the Greater Washington area, Turner’s Mid-Atlantic office has developed a reputation for high-quality execution of many of the region’s land mark projects. Turner is a North America-based, international construction services company. Founded in 1902, Turner first made its mark on the industry pioneering the use of steel-reinforced concrete for general building, which enabled the company to deliver safer, stronger, and more efficient buildings to clients. The company continues to embrace emerging technologies and offers an increasingly diverse set of services. With an annual construction volume of $11 billion, Turner is the largest builder in the United States, ranking first in the major market segments of the building construction field. For more information please visit www.turnerconstruction.com.



View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160629005469/en/

Contacts

Hines

George C. Lancaster, +1-713-966-7646

George.Lancaster@hines.com



Mark Clegg, +1-713-966-7848

Mark.Clegg@hines.com



Conrad Hotels & Resorts

John Walls, +1 703 883 5232

John.Walls@hilton.com





Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18280/en

Beechwood Bermuda Renames Old Mutual Bermuda as Beechwood OMNIA & Expands Offerings for Guaranteed Investment Plans

HAMILTON, Bermuda - Thursday, June 30th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Beechwood Bermuda, which through its affiliates is one of the largest providers of international investment plans with more than $1 billion in assets, announces the renaming of Old Mutual (Bermuda) to Beechwood OMNIA as part of its commitment to providing international investors with access to guaranteed investment plans.

The renamed Beechwood OMNIA, which has been integrated into Beechwood’s existing platform, includes clients from approximately forty distribution partners throughout Asia, Latin America and the Middle East. The completed integration provides Beechwood with the scale necessary to continue to meet demand from new and existing clients for innovative investment plans.

Although Beechwood OMNIA has been closed to new investors since 2009, existing clients of the business will now have access to enhanced features and fixed accounts with higher rate options than are currently offered. In addition, as more financial institutions add Beechwood’s Preferred Rate Plus and Escalator Plus investment plans to their platforms, many Beechwood OMNIA clients will have the opportunity to transition their investments to these products, which offer attractive rates and unique investment features such as principal protection guarantees.

“We are committed to providing international investors with guaranteed investment plans, and there is a clear opportunity in this market, which contracted during the financial crisis but now is experiencing strong growth in client demand,” said David Lessing, Executive Vice President of Products and Services at Beechwood. “Our purchase and integration of Beechwood OMNIA uniquely positions us to meet this client demand by sending a clear message to our clients that we are in this market for the long-term.”

Beechwood Bermuda’s investment solutions are featured on the platforms of over eighty banks and brokerage firms around the world. The investment plans are supported by Beechwood’s seasoned portfolio managers, a senior management team consisting of the former Chief Operating Officers of both Merrill Lynch’s and Morgan Stanley’s U.S. Wealth Management groups, and Beechwood’s experience in managing risk as a reinsurer to leading global financial institutions.

About Beechwood Bermuda International Ltd. and Beechwood Re, Ltd.

The Beechwood family of companies includes Beechwood Bermuda International Ltd., a licensed long-term insurer located in Hamilton, Bermuda and regulated by the Bermuda Monetary Authority (BMA) -- and Beechwood Re, a reinsurer domiciled in Grand Cayman and regulated by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA). The companies were formed to provide solutions that address significant demand from: (1) non-U.S. or Bermudian high net worth investors seeking innovative, guaranteed investment products; and (2) U.S. and international insurers in need of attractive capacity in the life insurance and annuity reinsurance market.

Forward Looking Statements:

This press release may include information that might be considered forward-looking. While any such forward-looking statements represent our current judgment on what the future holds, they are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which reflect our opinions only as of the date of this release. Please keep in mind that we are not obligating ourselves to revise these forward-looking statements in light of new information or future events.    

Contacts

Media:

For Beechwood Bermuda

John Eddy, 212-319-3451, ext. 648

john@goldin.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18276/en

Cooltech Applications Launches Its Magnetic Refrigerated System in the USA

 The company announced an agreement with Structural Concepts for deploying the first magnetic cooling display cases in North America

CHICAGO - Thursday, June 30th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Cooltech Applications S.A.S. (Cooltech), the world’s leading magnetic refrigeration company, today announced a partnership with Structural Concepts, a leading display cases manufacturer in Michigan (USA), to integrate Cooltech’s magnetic refrigeration system (MRS) into some of Structural Concepts’ display cases.

The MRS utilizes a water coolant instead of a refrigerant gas—a major contributor to climate change—resulting in an eco-friendly solution. Besides eliminating the use of pollutant refrigerant gases and noisy compressors, MRS cuts energy consumption by up to 50 percent, and boosts reliability and safety.

“As the leader in manufacturing the foodservice market’s most energy efficient and environmentally-friendly refrigerated food display cases,” said Dave Geerts, President of Structural Concepts, “our company is thrilled to announce our partnership with Cooltech as our next major investment in disruptive technology. Our partnership with Cooltech and their MRS technology will give us the unprecedented opportunity to be on the leading edge of a refrigeration revolution.”

“After successful product integrations in Europe, we are delighted to introduce the technology in the USA,” said Christian Muller, President of Cooltech. “Due to new and stricter regulations and the perpetual quest for reducing the energy bill, we are convinced magnetic cooling can disrupt the refrigeration and air conditioning markets and become a true green alternative to vapor-compression refrigeration.”

Both companies exhibited their products to major food retail chains at the recent FMI connect show in Chicago.

Availability

The MRS is in beta testing at several sites in Europe in various configurations and is presently available to OEMs for integration. An MRS version generating high cooling power—20 kilowatt (kW) and over—is under development.

About Cooltech Applications

Cooltech Applications is the world’s leading magnetic cooling company offering an energy efficient and ecological gas-free refrigeration solution. Owner of about 300 patents issued in 40 different countries and supported by major organizations and large market players through developments agreements, Cooltech Applications is now entering the commercialization process with equipment manufacturer partners across Europe, North America and Asia. Founded in 2003 and backed by well-established investors, Cooltech Applications’ offices are located in France. More information about the company is available at www.cooltech-applications.com.    

Contacts

Cooltech Applications

Vincent Delecourt, +33-(0)-3-88-10-47-90

v.delecourt@cooltech-applications.com



Structural Concepts

Chris Latta, +1-231-798-6246

clatta@structuralconcepts.com







Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18278/en

Mobile Tech Expert, DJ & Composer Who Collaborated with U2 and Depeche Mode to Host IBC Rising Stars 2016 Event

LONDON - Thursday, June 30th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- IBC today announced that media and technology expert Oisin Lunny will host the IBC Rising Stars event on Saturday 10 September in Amsterdam. The Rising Stars initiative is provided by IBC to empower the next generation of media and entertainment professionals, and features carefully selected broadcast leaders, celebrities, innovators and experts.

Oisin is part of the Market Development team at leading mobile engagement specialists OpenMarket. He speaks and moderates at conferences globally and contributes to The Guardian, B2B Marketing, Digital Doughnut and others. Oisin also sits on the advisory board for The Economist Big Think, chairs the Fundraising Online advisory panel and maintains a parallel profile as film composer, producer, and DJ.

“IBC has without doubt been the essential conference covering tech innovation around broadcast interaction, and with the accelerated pace of transformation today it’s never been more important to support the industry leaders of tomorrow. I’m honoured to be a part of the Rising Stars initiative and looking forward to a great event!” Comments Oisin.

With over 25 years’ experience working in the creative and technology industries, Oisin is perfectly positioned to help a new generation navigating through the Rising Stars sessions and get the most out of the opportunity as part of the IBC event.

Oisin’s career spans from being part of the Hip-Hop collective “Marxman” who collaborated with Gangstarr and Sinead O’Connor, and supported Depeche Mode & U2, to managing the world’s largest social space for teens, Habbo Hotel. He has released music as “Firstborn”, including the club hit “The Mood Club”, and composed music for films such as After The Dance, Men Of Arlington, The Mean Machine and Human Traffic as well as various TV and advert commissions.

As IBC Rising Stars host, Oisin will give the audience a fresh perspective on how to pursue opportunities and find a dream career path in a fast paced environment. Together with other successful media leaders, Oisin will lead sessions providing career guidance and advice on new and future skills to supercharge careers in media and entertainment, at a time when the accelerating power of technology is transforming workplaces and jobs.

Oisin adds; “When it comes to career strategy I’m a great believer in following not only your intellect but also your heart. I believe these specially curated Rising Stars sessions from global leaders in media and technology will offer some career-changing inspiration. This is a perfect opportunity for learning, sharing and serendipity, and also the chance to connect with the creative business leaders of today and tomorrow.”

The programme will also cover essential developments in the media and entertainment world in the course of one day. Top industry experts will share actionable insights about complex broadcast setups and creative solutions to deliver new viewing experiences. VR experts will unleash the power of immersive storytelling enabled by technology and present exciting projects that will fire up imagination and uncover new opportunities for entertainment professionals.

Sessions are designed to help attendees to see through the hype and learn about what really matters.

To find out more about IBC2016 Rising Stars programme taking place at the RAI in Amsterdam from 10 to 11 September 2016, visit IBC.org/rsprogramme

To book a place visit IBC.org/RSregister

Note to Editors:

About IBC

IBC is the premier annual event for professionals engaged in the creation, management and delivery of entertainment and news content worldwide. Attracting 55,000+ attendees from more than 170 countries, IBC combines a highly respected and peer-reviewed conference with an exhibition that exhibits more than 1,600 leading suppliers of state of the art electronic media technology and provides unrivalled networking opportunities.

IBC2016 Dates:
Conference:                       8 - 12 September 2016                
Exhibition:                       9 - 13 September 2016                

For more information visit ibc.org

Find out more about the IBC Conference – IBC.org/conference

Find out more about the IBC Exhibition – IBC.org/discovermore

Find out more about IBC Content Everywhere – IBCCE.org

Find out more about Oisin Lunny - oisinlunny.com

Find out more about OpenMarket – openmarket.com

Contacts

Bubble & Squeak

Sadie Groom

E: Sadie.groom@bubblesqueak.agency

T: 07715 422414    









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/18277/en

INMARK™ now enrolling: first study to evaluate the effect of OFEV® (nintedanib) on biomarkers reflecting the underlying fibrotic process in IPF patients

INGELHEIM, Germany - Thursday, June 30th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

First time the effect of OFEV® is being explored on change of biomarkers reflecting the fibrotic process in the lungs

INMARK™ will assess whether temporal changes in these biomarkers can predict the clinical course of IPF earlier

Identifying biomarkers to predict the clinical course of IPF early in individual patients remains one of the most important challenges to improve overall patient management

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Boehringer Ingelheim today announces that the first patient has been enrolled in a new study, INMARK™, investigating the effect of OFEV® (nintedanib) on changes in specific blood biomarkers. These changes in biomarkers indicate the excessive scarring (fibrosis) in the lungs of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).

Biomarkers are measurable indicators of the presence or severity of a condition and used to monitor and predict the disease course of patients so that appropriate treatment can be planned. INMARK™ will measure changes in various extracellular matrix (ECM*) turnover biomarkers already shown to predict disease progression in IPF patients. ECM turnover is part of healthy tissue maintenance. However uncontrolled or excessive turnover is a key driver for the structural changes seen in IPF lungs, leading to progressive scarring and loss of lung function.

IPF is a debilitating and fatal lung disease with a high mortality, which causes permanent scarring of the lung tissue and loss of lung function over time. Early initiation of treatment may be crucial to help slow disease progression. Recent advancements have been made in the management of IPF with the availability of specific antifibrotic drugs such as OFEV®, which has been shown to slow disease progression by approximately 50% across three key studies. However despite these advances, physicians are still uncertain when to start treatment in individual patients. This is due to the unpredictability and differences in disease progression across patients with IPF and the lack of biomarkers to inform how the disease will progress in individual patients and who may respond best to treatment.

“The initiation of this new study marks a major milestone. The trial is of great scientific value in that it will provide better understanding of IPF and the value of nintedanib treatment in individuals with preserved lung function. Importantly this is the first time we are investigating the effect of any antifibrotic treatment on changes in specific biomarkers in IPF,” commented Dr Toby Maher, Consultant Respiratory Physician at the Royal Brompton Hospital in London, United Kingdom and principle investigator. “Being able to identify biomarkers that will predict how the disease will progress in a specific patient will allow physicians to start their patients on appropriate treatment at the earliest opportunity to help slow disease progression. It remains one of the most urgent challenges for effective management for IPF patients.”

Early diagnosis of IPF is critical to helping patients manage their condition. The median survival of IPF patients following diagnosis is just 2-3 years, underlining the importance of early and accurate diagnosis and the vital role of treatments to help slow disease progression. OFEV® has been shown to slow disease progression with approximately 50% reduction in the decline of lung function across a broad range of IPF patient types.

Dr William Mezzanotte, Therapy Area Head, Respiratory Medicine, Boehringer Ingelheim, said: “In a disease that displays variable rates of progression, identification of biomarkers that could allow physicians to identify and monitor individual disease progression and treatment successes in patients with IPF is essential. We hope that the identification of these biomarkers, particularly early in the disease, has the potential to improve overall patient management and enable better delivery of patient care.”

INMARK™ is one of a number of new trials recently initiated by Boehringer Ingelheim to provide the scientific community with important information on the safety and tolerability of OFEV® in combination with other drugs and across different patient populations. This is part of Boehringer Ingelheim’s continued commitment to tackling the global burden of progressive fibrotic lung diseases.

* The ECM is the network of proteins and carbohydrates that surround a cell and is part of all living tissues. As well as providing structural support for cells, the ECM supports a tissue’s division, growth and development. ECM turnover is part of healthy tissue maintenance. Assessment of ECM turnover may serve as biomarkers for disease activity and progression in IPF.



Please click on the link below for ‘Notes to Editors’ and ‘References’:

http://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/press-release/ipf-ofev-inmark-biomarker-trial

Intended audiences:

This press release is issued from our Corporate Headquarters in Ingelheim, Germany and is intended to provide information about our global business. Please be aware that information relating to the approval status and labels of approved products may vary from country to country, and a country-specific press release on this topic may have been issued in the countries where we do business.    

Contacts

Boehringer Ingelheim

Corporate Communications

Media + PR

Anja Konschak

55216 Ingelheim/Germany

Phone: +49 6132 – 77 182415

Fax: +49 6132 – 77 6601

Email: press@boehringer-ingelheim.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18281/en