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Tag: shake

  • Samsung Set to Shake Up Personal Finance: Barclays Partnership Brings Samsung Credit Card to Compete with Apple

    Samsung Set to Shake Up Personal Finance: Barclays Partnership Brings Samsung Credit Card to Compete with Apple

    Samsung is reportedly preparing to launch a Samsung-branded credit card in the United States, in a strategic collaboration with Barclays that will capitalize on Visa’s extensive global payment network.

    Samsung Eyes U.S. Financial Sphere

    Samsung is reportedly planning to broaden its financial services portfolio in the U.S. market. A partnership with the British banking giant, Barclays, would provide a solid foundation for both companies to further penetrate the U.S. market. For Samsung, this means fostering increased loyalty within its client base; for Barclays, it opens up opportunities for greater lending scope.

    The formal announcement of the partnership is expected by the end of the year, with Visa being selected to manage the payment network.

    If successful, the Samsung credit card is unlikely to be a singular venture. It has been suggested that the credit card could be the cornerstone of a more expansive financial product offering, potentially involving a high-yield savings account, a digital prepaid account, and even a buy-now, pay-later option.

    Samsung’s Bid to Emulate Apple’s Success

    With this move, Samsung is evidently looking to replicate Apple’s successful foray into the U.S. financial sector. Apple has already established a strong foothold in the country with the Apple Card and Apple Pay, while Samsung’s financial tools have yet to achieve similar success.

    Samsung anticipates that by launching its own credit card, it can further solidify its ecosystem through Samsung Wallet. The card could provide cashback rewards that are directly deposited into users’ Samsung accounts, offering them an easy way to finance future purchases. This setup is expected to encourage users to remain within Samsung’s ecosystem, regardless of whether they’re purchasing a new Galaxy phone, a TV, or even a smart refrigerator.

    This strategy reflects the approach taken by Apple back in 2019 when it launched the Apple Card, in cooperation with Goldman Sachs and Mastercard. The card, which offers cashback benefits and interest-free financing for Apple products, has been successful in substantial growth of Apple’s financial presence.

    Broadening Samsung’s Ecosystem

    Samsung and Apple have been longstanding competitors in the smartphone market, but as hardware advancements slow down, the focus of competition is shifting towards ecosystem services. Financial products such as the prospective credit card could enable Samsung to fortify its relationship with U.S. consumers, thereby enhancing the relevance of Samsung Wallet.

    If Samsung’s plans come to fruition, it could be a significant step into the realm of personal finance. It’s clear that the ongoing rivalry with Apple is evolving, moving from a battle over pocket space to a contest for wallet share.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Samsung’s projected strategy for the U.S. financial market?
    Samsung reportedly plans to launch a Samsung-branded credit card, in partnership with Barclays and utilizing Visa’s global payment network, with potential future offerings including a high-yield savings account and a digital prepaid account.

    What is the aim of Samsung’s credit card venture?
    Samsung hopes to enhance customer loyalty and keep users within its ecosystem by offering incentives such as cashback rewards which can be easily used for future purchases.

    How does this move reflect the changing competition between Samsung and Apple?
    As hardware development slows, competition is shifting to ecosystem services. Both companies are expanding into the financial sector, with Samsung’s credit card venture marking a new stage in its rivalry with Apple.

  • Melbourne Startup Jim Revolutionizes Fitness Drinks With Protein-packed, Prebiotic Soda

    Melbourne Startup Jim Revolutionizes Fitness Drinks With Protein-packed, Prebiotic Soda

    Melbourne-based start-up, Jim, has recently introduced a novel functional soda into the market. This unique beverage combines proteins and prebiotics, targeting both health-conscious consumers and those seeking high-quality fitness recovery options.

    The Details

    The innovative soda line comes in three distinct flavours: Golden Pash, Lem’n’Ade and Rarr-Berry. According to the company, each 330ml soda can is packed with 5 grams of protein, organic prebiotics, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and L-glutamine. Additionally, these soda variants are free from added sugars and caffeine.

    Jim’s founders, Aimee Tawhai, a former elite athlete turned entrepreneur, and her companion Jono, envisioned a fitness recovery drink that would be both beneficial and enjoyable. They aimed to move past the conventional ‘gym bro’ beverage market, with a drink that appeals to a broader consumer base.

    Breaking Away from the Norm

    Aimee Tawhai, co-founder of Jim, shed light on the brand’s unique approach. “Fitness recovery drinks have been primarily targeted towards the ‘gym bro’ culture for quite some time. These drinks often have intimidating labels, excessively sweet and artificial tastes, and ingredients that offer no real benefits. Our intention was to cater to the everyday consumer, the ones who value their health and appreciate effective recovery drinks but don’t necessarily identify with the ‘gym bro’ culture. We wanted to create a beverage that I would personally drink, something I could confidently offer to my mother, a drink that delivers on promises and also tastes great.”

    Currently, Jim’s health-focused sodas are available in over 100 wellness centres, health food shops, and recovery hubs across the country. They can also be found through Kelly’s Distributors in Queensland. Plans are in place to expand online availability via Healthylife, the official health and wellness partner of Woolworths, in the near future.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the unique selling point of Jim’s new functional soda?
    The soda combines protein and prebiotics, targeting both health-conscious consumers and those seeking high-quality fitness recovery options. It also avoids added sugars and caffeine.

    Who are the founders of Jim?
    Jim was founded by Aimee Tawhai, a former elite athlete turned entrepreneur, and her companion Jono.

    Where can consumers purchase Jim’s functional sodas?
    Jim’s sodas are available in over 100 wellness centres, health food shops, and recovery hubs nationwide, and through Kelly’s Distributors in Queensland. There are plans to expand online availability via Healthylife, Woolworths’ official health and wellness partner.

  • True Protein Revamps Electrolyte Formula: Introduces New Flavours, Convenient Packaging

    True Protein Revamps Electrolyte Formula: Introduces New Flavours, Convenient Packaging

    True Protein, a leading health and wellness brand, is set to revamp its True Electrolyte Formula. The refreshed product will sport a fresh look alongside the introduction of two exciting new flavours – strawberry and blueberry. Additionally, the company will offer the formula in convenient single-sachet travel packs, making it ideal for customers on the go.

    The True Electrolyte Formula is a unique blend of sodium, potassium, and magnesium. True Protein asserts that this concoction has been meticulously formulated based on scientific research. The purpose of this blend is to restore essential minerals in the body and promote optimal hydration.

    True Protein emerged from the vision of its founder, Ben Kierath. On returning to Australia from the UK, Kierath spotted a gap in the market for pure, science-backed supplements that were locally sourced and devoid of unnecessary fillers or artificial ingredients.

    “We set out with a mission to inspire a world of healthier people,” Kierath stated, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to creating clean, science-backed products free from artificial and unnecessary additives.

    True Protein’s products are fully certified by Human and Supplement Testing Australia (HASTA), reflecting the company’s dedication to using only clean, natural ingredients in its products.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the True Electrolyte Formula?

    The True Electrolyte Formula is a unique blend of sodium, potassium, and magnesium that is intended to replenish essential minerals in the body and promote hydration.

    Who is the founder of True Protein?

    True Protein was founded by Ben Kierath, who identified a gap in the market for clean, science-backed, locally sourced supplements.

    What certification does True Protein hold?

    True Protein’s products are fully certified by Human and Supplement Testing Australia (HASTA), demonstrating the company’s commitment to using only pure, natural ingredients.

  • Chapanda Prepares To Launch First U.s. Store In NYC, Aiming To Reach Larger Demographic

    Chapanda Prepares To Launch First U.s. Store In NYC, Aiming To Reach Larger Demographic

    Chinese tea retail chain Cha Bai Dao, widely known as ChaPanda, is preparing to launch its inaugural US-based store in Flushing, a neighborhood in Queens, New York City.

    Main Street Debut

    The new store is slated to open on Main Street, an area identified by the company as the bustling commercial heart of Flushing and a locale with one of America’s largest Chinese populations.

    Wang Huan, the Overseas CEO of ChaPanda, explained that the expansion intends to introduce the brand to a much larger demographic. “ChaPanda is committed to providing an unrivaled selection of products and a superior service experience for American consumers. Through our standardized operating systems and extensive global supply chain network, we ensure that our products and services remain consistent across all our international stores,” Huan elaborated.

    Spreading its Wings

    This development comes in the wake of numerous global inaugurations throughout the current year. In May, ChaPanda opened its premier European store in Paris, and just last month, it made its debut in Singapore with two new outlets.

    Notable market analysts from Galaxy Securities and Huaxin Securities have pointed out the effectiveness of ChaPanda’s unique “one location, one strategy” model in yielding positive outcomes in foreign markets. They anticipate that, with the acceleration of its international expansion, the firm is well-positioned to capitalize on a dual growth strategy encompassing both domestic and international markets.

    Questions & Answers

    What is ChaPanda’s expansion strategy?
    ChaPanda’s expansion strategy involves a unique “one location, one strategy” model, which allows the company to customize its approach for each specific market it enters.

    Where is ChaPanda’s first US store going to be located?
    ChaPanda’s inaugural US store will be located on Main Street in Flushing, Queens, New York City, an area known for being a bustling commercial hub and having one of the largest Chinese populations in America.

    What does Wang Huan, Overseas CEO of ChaPanda, say about the company’s approach to maintaining quality and consistency?
    Wang Huan stated that through standardized operating systems and a comprehensive global supply chain network, ChaPanda ensures the consistency of its products and services across all its global stores.

  • Shake Shack Announces Major Expansion Into Vietnam With 15 Outlets By 2035

    Shake Shack Announces Major Expansion Into Vietnam With 15 Outlets By 2035

    American fast-food chain, Shake Shack, is set to expand its reach to Vietnam, aiming to open 15 outlets throughout the country by the year 2035. This expansion initiative is facilitated by a fortified collaboration with Maxim’s Caterers Limited, a Hong Kong-based licensee. This move further consolidates Shake Shack’s existence in the Asia-Pacific region.

    The Vietnam Shack

    The inaugural Vietnamese Shake Shack is slated to open its doors in the coming year. It aims to appeal to food enthusiasts with its signature offerings such as the ShackBurger, crinkle-cut fries, hand-spun frozen custard, the Chicken Shack, and the ShackMeister beer.

    Investing in Vibrant Cultures

    Michael Kark, president of global licensing at Shake Shack, expressed his enthusiasm about the expansion. “Breaking ground in Vietnam marks an exhilarating progression for Shake Shack,” he stated. “By planning 15 outlets over the coming decade, we are making a strong commitment to one of Asia’s most dynamic, food-loving societies.”

    Maxim’s Caterers presently operates 52 Shake Shack outlets across Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Thailand.

    “Maxim’s proves to be the ideal collaborator to implement our vision, thanks to their unrivaled local knowledge, operational proficiency, and a deep-seated passion for hospitality. Together, we are excited to introduce Shack to a brand new community of fans in Vietnam,” Kark added.

    Shake Shack’s global presence includes over 610 locations, with more than 210 restaurants in key metropolitan cities such as London, Tokyo, Seoul, and Dubai.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Shake Shack’s expansion plan in Vietnam?
    Shake Shack plans to open 15 locations across Vietnam by 2035.

    When is the first Shake Shack outlet expected to open in Vietnam?
    The first Shake Shack outlet in Vietnam is scheduled to open next year.

    Who is Shake Shack’s partner in its Vietnam expansion?
    Shake Shack’s expansion in Vietnam is facilitated by Maxim’s Caterers Limited.

  • Burger King Is Launching an Ice Cream Shake Made from Cereal Favorite Fruit Loops

    Burger King Is Launching an Ice Cream Shake Made from Cereal Favorite Fruit Loops

    Restaurant Brands International is launching the Fruit Loops shake. Yes, for real. The company confirmed to TheStreet the shake will be available for a limited time only at participating restaurants nationwide starting April 17 for a recommended price of $2.99. It’s made from vanilla-flavored soft serve ice cream, Fruit Loops cereal pieces (compliments of Kellogg’s) and sweet sauce.

    Burger King is no stranger to thinking outside the box when it comes to fast-food. The company teamed up with beverage and snack giant Pepsi  last year to develop what it called Mac n’ Cheetos. The snack mashup was a portable combination of mac n’ cheese covered with crispy Cheetos flavor. Last March, it unveiled the “Angriest Whopper,” a burger with a red bun, jalapenos and hot sauce.

    And in September 2016, Burger King sold a black-bunned burger filled with Kraft Heinz’s A1 steak sauce called the Halloween Whopper for a limited time.