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Tag: Singapore

  • Singapore company buys 51% stake in SunMoon Food Company

    Singapore company buys 51% stake in SunMoon Food Company

    Singapore-listed SunMoon Food Company Tuesday said it had reached a deal to buy 51 per cent stake in Harvest Season Singapore, that runs fruit stores in China, for S$3.1 million.

    SunMoon will buy 510,000 ordinary shares in Harvest Season as part of the deal.

    The deal will see SunMoon issue 60 million new shares at 5.18 cents each to seller Zhang Jiang Quan, who owns Harvest Season. At this price point, SunMoon’s purchase consideration is S$3.11 million.The new shares constitutes 18.82 per cent of SunMoon’s current issued share capital.

    Harvest Season operates six fruit stores in and around Shanghai, PRC. The company claims to be a “fast expanding, premium-concept fruit retailer” operating six stores in Zhenjiang and Nanjing in the Jiangsu province. The province is home to a population size of more than 100 million and is one of the fastest growing middle income regions in China, SunMoon said in its regulatory filing.

    “Harvest Season operates complementary online and store-based delivery channels, thereby allowing it to reach out to a wider field of consumers who can benefit from both the convenience of delivery and immediate purchase of fresh, quality fruits from its physical stores. The fresh, stylish and upbeat concept for its stores which sell a combination of imported and domestic fruits, juices and convenience foods attracts all age groups,” the regulatory filing added.

    Explaining the rationale behind the proposed acquisition, SunMoon said: “The company believes that it can tap on and benefit from this growing consumption in China of fruit staples through retail and online delivery channels by acquiring a controlling stake in Harvest Season SG, which will, by completion, have a cash and NTA (net tangible assets) position of at least S$3 million earmarked for working capital and the development of more stores in China.”

  • Singaporean retailers thrive on on-line market

    Singaporean retailers thrive on on-line market

    A research by eBay exhibits that Singapore’s tech savvy retail exporters, who use the corporate’s on-line market place, promote to a mean 41 worldwide markets.

    eBay defines retail exporters as these sellers on its website who garner US$10,000 in gross sales to international clients (that’s consumers outdoors of Singapore).

    In accordance with an eBay spokesman, Singaporean retail exporters have been experiencing strong progress on the again of a revitalised US greenback. In South-east Asia, Singapore is ranked second when it comes to attain behind Thailand. Apparently, Singapore’s rating is 5 locations greater than US retail exporters.

    Jason Lee, director, eBay South-east Asia, famous that the US is the highest commerce hall for Singaporean retail exporters.

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  • Singaporeans spend money on Sogo Malaysia

    Singaporeans spend money on Sogo Malaysia

    A Singaporean funding firm has taken a strategic stake within the Malaysian licenceholder of Japanese division retailer model Sogo.

    Singapore-listed LTC Company, by way of a wholly-owned subsidiary, has taken a 50 per cent share of USP Fairness in equal partnership with USP Assets, which has acquired USP’s shareholding in SKLDS, which operates Sogo beneath licence from Sogo & Seibu  of Japan.

    LTC, historically concerned in property improvement, metal buying and selling and investments in Malaysia, China and Singapore, says in a regulatory submitting the mover is a part of a strategic initiative to broaden its enterprise base.

    “The LTC Group has been in search of a brand new enterprise to generate further revenue streams and diversify its asset and income base. Venturing into the retail and distributive enterprise in Malaysia is a step within the course of attaining these aims,” it stated.

    The funding value LTC MYR70.14 million (US$18.17 million).

    Sogo Malaysia is a full-line division retailer concentrating on home shoppers within the center market, ranging grocery, cosmetics, fragrances, attire and homewares.

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  • Singapore pulls plug on 2G mobile networks, to reuse airwaves for newer 4G services

    Singapore pulls plug on 2G mobile networks, to reuse airwaves for newer 4G services

    All 2G voice and messaging services will end in Singapore as the airwave-starved island moves to reuse existing 2G airwaves to boost the capacity and speeds of newer 4G services.

    The three local telcos Singtel, StarHub and M1 said in a statement on Monday afternoon that the number of customers affected are an “extremely small percentage” of their current base.

    “Mobile networks have evolved since the launch of 2G services in 1994… Singapore’s extensive modern 3G and 4G mobile networks have led to high smartphone ownership and usage,” the telcos said.

    “To cater for consumers’ increased demand for mobile data and faster access speeds, the spectrum currently used for 2G will be used to provide faster, more advanced 3G and 4G services.”

    The Infocomm Development Authority (IDA) of Singapore said there are some 250,000 2G mobile users today, forming only 3 per cent of the total mobile user base of 8 million subscriptions. The authority expects the proportion of 2G users to taper off in the next two years.

    Customers on 2G-only handsets will only need to place their existing SIM cards into a 3G or 4G handset. Their mobile services will not be disrupted. Those currently using 3G and 4G handsets will also not be affected.

    In the last few years, the three telcos said they have been conducting outreach programmes to encourage customers to migrate to newer networks. They have pledged to continue reaching out to affected 2G users through SMS, calls and posters at their retail outlets in the run-up to the service cessation.

    Singapore is not the first country to end 2G services. Korea and Japan ceased offering 2G services in March 2012. Australia is expected to pull the plug on its 2G networks, starting with Telstra, by the end of next year.

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  • Singapore Metro revenue dives

    Singapore Metro revenue dives

    Singapore’s Metro Holdings has reported an 82.7 per cent fall in its internet revenue to S$7.6 million within the fourth quarter.

    Full yr earnings, nevertheless, rose 33.7 per cent to $142.9 million on income up four.78 per cent to $145.eight million.

    The property improvement group stated revenues within the final quarter rose 19.2 per cent on account of greater turnover in its retail operations following the opening of its new retailer at Metro Centrepoint within the third quarter.

    The corporate blamed the quarterly earnings decline on greater operational prices and overheads within the retail division, largely from the brand new retailer. The corporate additionally booked a writedown within the worth of plant and gear at Metro Centrepoint.

    Metro operates a sequence of department shops and specialty shops in Singapore and Indonesia.

    In Singapore, it has 4 department shops, 9 Monsoon Decorate and one M2 specialty shops. Metro Paragon, its flagship retailer situated on Orchard Rd is positioned on the excessive finish of the market, whereas Metro Woodlands and Metro Sengkang within the suburbs and Metro Metropolis Sq. on the town fringe are positioned as ‘family-friendly shops’.

  • Sands Retail rewarded for a transformed luxury experience

    Sands Retail rewarded for a transformed luxury experience

    Sands Retail, the leading operator of luxury retail properties around the world, has won the prestigious RLI Shopping Centre Renovation Award 2015 for upgrading The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore’s iconic luxury shopping mall.

    The award forms part of the Global RLI Awards 2015, the retail industry’s premier awards program.
    This year’s award builds on Sands Retail’s achievement in the Global RLI Awards last year, when another Sands Retail property, Shoppes at Four Seasons in Macao, also took the RLI Shopping Centre Renovation Award. As well as properties in Singapore and Macao, Sands Retail’s shopping mall portfolio also spans retail property in the US.

    David Sylvester, Executive Vice President of Global Retail, Las Vegas Sands Corp said: “Despite the current challenging economic conditions, we have delivered an unequalled shopping experience by drawing on our extensive experience and success in the retail sector. RLI’s recognition of The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands reinforces our position as one of the world’s leading operators of premium luxury shopping malls.”

    Following its 12-month transformation, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands has redefined itself as one of the most compelling luxury shopping destinations in Asia. Already home to one of the largest and most spectacular collections of luxury labels in the region, the renovated 800,000 sq. ft. mall has transformed single units into stunning duplexes and even triplexes, driving several ‘first to market’ brands to open there.

     

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  • Indian Retail Market to Reach USD 1.3 Trillion by 2020

    Indian Retail Market to Reach USD 1.3 Trillion by 2020

    India’s retail market is expected to expand at USD 1.3 trillion by 2020 and the GDP is set to grow at 8 per cent over the next three years, making it the world’s fastest-growing major developing market, a consultancy firm has forecast.

    The current retail sales in India is worth USD 925 billion and had grown at 5.8 per cent on compounded annual growth rate in 2010-2014, A T Kearney said in a report on the 2015 Global Retail Development Index.

    “Consumer and investor sentiment have seen an uptick, as the pro-reform government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi sets out on an ambitious goal of improving its Ease of Doing Business ranking from 142nd to 50th in the next two years,” it said.

    “India’s retail market is expected to grow to USD 1.3 trillion by 2020, and GDP is expected to grow at 8 per cent over the next three years, making India the world’s fastest-growing major developing market,” the report said.

    India has risen five positions to rank 15th in the latest edition of the index, the London-based consultancy firm said.

    “India represents a good opportunity for international retailers in single-brand retail, cash-and carry, and e-commerce, as the country appears to be on the cusp of a strong growth phase over the next five years,” it said.

    The tipping point for brick-and-mortar retail continues to be the opening up of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) norms in multi-brand retail, a move that is not expected in the near-term.

    After two years of dormancy, Walmart will open a new outlet in Agra this year and plans to add 50 wholesale stores to its existing 20 in the next five years, the report said.

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  • Accolade for Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

    Accolade for Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

    The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands has gained the RLI Purchasing Centre Renovation 2015 title in The International RLI Awards 2015 held in Dubai, UAE.

    The Shoppes gained the award forward of worldwide contenders the Armada Purchasing Centre in Turkey, CapitaMall Jinniu in Chengdu, China, and the Victoria Place Buying Centre within the UK.

    John Postle, VP of retail with Marina Bay Sands stated: “We’re honoured to as soon as once more be recognised by RLI for our efforts to reinvent and redefine the last word luxurious buying expertise for our international guests. The constructive momentum we have now witnessed because of a three-year lengthy strategic retail re-mix technique reinforces our imaginative and prescient to ship a world-class product unmatched by some other purchasing locations within the area.”

    Postle thanked retail companions and clients for contributing to The Shoppes’ success.

    “We’re assured of taking our product and repair high quality to the subsequent degree with many extra thrilling openings and signature occasions to return.”

    Organized by Retail & Leisure Worldwide (RLI) journal, The International RLI Awards recognise and reward probably the most revolutionary and imaginative retail and leisure ideas worldwide. The judging panel consists of world business leaders in retail, leisure, improvement and design, representing the very best requirements in at this time’s retail area.

    The Shoppes gained its first international accolade – the RLI Worldwide Buying Centre 2012 – awarded by the RLI again in 2012. It was additionally awarded Greatest Buying Expertise on the Singapore Expertise Awards 2014 by the Singapore Tourism Board.

    Since opening in 2010, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands has grouped the most important assortment of luxurious labels beneath one roof within the area, with greater than 170 luxurious and premium manufacturers, spanning bespoke menswear, ladies’s collections, luxurious youngsters’s labels, in addition to luxurious watch and jewelry manufacturers.

  • Singapore, Taiwan, Korea to get Apple Watch

    Singapore, Taiwan, Korea to get Apple Watch

    Singaporeans, Taiwanese and South Koreans will be capable of purchase the Apple Watch from later this month.

    “The response to Apple Watch has surpassed our expectations in each approach, and we’re thrilled to convey it to extra clients around the globe,” stated Jeff Williams, Apple’s senior vice chairman of Operations. “We’re additionally making nice progress with the backlog of Apple Watch orders, and we thank our clients for his or her endurance. All orders positioned via Might, with the only exception of Apple Watch 42 mm Area Black Stainless Metal with Area Black Hyperlink Bracelet, will ship to clients inside two weeks. At the moment, we’ll additionally start promoting some fashions in our Apple Retail Shops.”

    Apple says the Apple Watch might be obtainable in Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Italy, Mexico Spain and Switzerland from Friday, June 26 from the Apple On-line Retailer, Apple’s retail shops and chosen authorised resellers.

    The world’s developer group has already created hundreds of apps for Apple Watch with new apps for patrons to discover and uncover. Apple Watch wearers can already hold monitor of a Singapore Airways flight, keep in contact with associates in South Korea with KakaoTalk, discover the close by YouBike station in Taiwan and entry film tickets with Cinepolis in Mexico.

  • Thomas Sabo opens in VivoCity

    Thomas Sabo opens in VivoCity

    Jewelry and watch model Thomas Sabo has opened its new VivoCity boutique in a star-studded offical opening occasion.

    Situated within the newly opened B1 retail space of VivoCity – Singapore’s largest shopping center – the 565 sqft boutique options handcrafted jewelry items, displ;ayed in an surroundings greatest described as ‘basic trendy design’ providing shoppers a singular buying surroundings.

    Supermodel Georgia Might Jagger was the particular visitor for the opening, additionally attended by Rebecca Tan, Jaymee Ong, George Younger and Alan Wong.

    “I actually like the range of the Sterling Silver Assortment, particularly the Karma Beads impressed by Far-Japanese philosophies. You can also make your personal creation. At the moment I´m sporting the Koi fish, a press release piece and image of power, which matches so nicely with the Karma Beads that every have a person which means ,” stated Georgia Might Jagger.

    Thomas Sabo is among the globally-leading jewelry, watches and wonder corporations, designing, promoting and distributing way of life merchandise for men and women. The corporate, established in 1984 byThomas Sabo in Lauf an der Pegnitz, southern Germany, operates virtually 250 of its personal outlets throughout all 5 continents with a complete of round 1750 staff.

    Globally, Thomas Sabo collaborates with some 2600 commerce companions in addition to main airways.

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  • how one can keep away from them 6 style sourcing perils

    how one can keep away from them 6 style sourcing perils

    Trend is a worldwide enterprise, and the world is a burgeoning market.

    The US$1.5 trillion trend commerce is on a double-digital progress trajectory pushed by creating economies, and large retailers will not be the one beneficiaries. Begin-ups and smaller entrepreneurs are discovering recent progress potential cross-border within the type of new clients, or distinctive finishes and componentry for clothes.

    Nevertheless, whether or not it’s style sourcing, manufacturing or promoting trend gadgets internationally, getting sensible on customs could make or break a budding empire.

    Shoe entrepreneur, Christy Ng, cites “recent design, distinct artisanship and aggressive pricing” as motivations for sourcing shoe charms, materials and uncooked supplies outdoors her residence of Malaysia for her eponymous model.

    For Juan David Martinez, proprietor of Industrias Suárez, a Colombian biking put on producer, the standard and pricing of abroad sourced zips, dyes, adhesives and reflective tapes are integral to their value mannequin and product integrity.

    Nevertheless, understanding customs guidelines earlier than you’re taking the leap into international sourcing, is a should, as Ng and Martinez will attest. Customs guidelines are fluid and differ markedly from nation to nation. Lengthy hold-ups and penalties can ensue if guidelines aren’t adopted. Ng has skilled the pitfalls first hand, the place complicated or altering customs guidelines have resulted in “unprecedented monetary losses with clothes left on the docks for weeks at a time.”

    In the event you’re a trend entrepreneur able to take the subsequent step of both sourcing or promoting gadgets internationally, listed here are some recommendations on navigating customs to get you began.

    1. Examine textile quotas and licensing necessities.

    The textile business has lengthy been the topic of worldwide commerce negotiations. Within the 1960s there was a posh international quota system, which has since been abolished. Nevertheless some nations nonetheless keep choose quotas, resembling Costa Rica, which controls commerce in sure wool materials. Markets reminiscent of Mexico require textile or materials importers to carry a license or visa.

    2. Assessment banned or restricted substances lists.

    Many textiles and supplies utilized by the style business include plastics or chemical compounds, that are topic to ban or restrictions, similar to textiles containing formaldehyde in Europe. Acquire an inventory of banned substances from native authorities, and verify with distributors that textiles and supplies move the check earlier than buying.

    three. Ensure valuations are correct and items are clearly labelled intimately.

    When importing or exporting items, be certain that to offer an correct valuation to calculate duties together with an in depth description of the contents of a cargo – for instance moderately than ‘bolt of silk’, the outline ought to learn ‘bolt of blue silk with embroidered element’.  These particulars will assist customs officers to calculate the duties and taxes to be paid on shipments.

    four. Examine the authenticity of products and report any counterfeit merchandise.

    It’s estimated the sale of counterfeit items makes up 10 per cent of trend commerce with belts, purses and footwear the preferred gadgets.  We’re not simply speaking closely branded luggage and clothes – at this time’s counterfeit items could be a lot more durable to detect. You could inadvertently end up sourcing (or being topic to) ‘knock-off’ merchandise to finish a seasonal line-up.

    5. Be clear on conventions and native guidelines prohibiting or proscribing sure animal merchandise.

    The Conference on Worldwide Commerce in Endangered Species (CITES) is a world governmental settlement prohibiting the commerce of untamed animals.  Along with this, many nations have supplemental legal guidelines that govern commerce of animal merchandise, which differ between markets. For instance, it’s unlawful to import canine or home cat hair to Europe nevertheless it’s permissible in some elements of Asia.

    6. Safe mandatory certification the place required.

    In some situations further certification to import items shall be required.

    Sourcing or promoting items internationally can appear complicated nevertheless there are a selection of organisations that may help, from authorities businesses to transportation companions. Open to Export, sponsored by UK Commerce & Funding, is a wonderful useful resource to get began on constructing your style model internationally. When you’re in your approach, speak to your transportation supplier to learn how instruments similar to FedEx International Commerce Supervisor may also help estimate duties and taxes, handle documentation and achieve up-to-date insights into native market circumstances.

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  • Singapore cryptocurrency developer begins retail payment trials

    Singapore cryptocurrency developer begins retail payment trials

    Local blockchain solutions provider Tembusu Systems will begin its first real-world implementation of digital currency payments in Singapore using the TRUST framework on 10th June.

    The TRUST system, a proprietary platform based on the blockchain technology that drives cryptocurrencies and digital economies, makes payment using different currencies — real-world, digital or even gold and silver — possible.

    The system was developed to integrate traditional currency platforms with the emerging blockchain technology that drive today’s commonly known digital currencies.

    “We’re planning to try out several possible use cases with current payment systems in Singapore and the success of this trial will see the use of digital currency payment systems being extended into real-world context,” said Andras Kristof, Co-Founder and CEO of Tembusu Systems.

    A demo of the platform, conducted in local uptown bar The Spiffy Dapper, which also hosted Singapore’s first Bitcoin ATM in 2014, showed how the TRUST framework could be easily implemented. The trial implementation only requires a computer or mobile device to be attached to existing POS systems, and successful integration will see businesses having a simplified, self-auditing, cashless payment system with low-running cost.

    With blockchain technology keeping each transaction in check, businesses like The Spiffy Dapper can expect easier reconciliation of their accounts from their daily sales as well.

    Tembusu Systems said the core of the TRUST platform is a network of payment gateways which allows consumers to pay with any currency of their choice. The platform can also accommodate establishments with loyalty rewards programs such that users can pay using accumulated loyalty points.

    The company  will also be exploring human ATM applications as well; the TRUST platform allows consumers to withdraw cash through participating businesses by processing currencies from their digital wallets to the POS systems. Businesses will then be able to cash out the digital payment into cash for consumers over the counter.

    “Our goal is not to replace other payment systems like NETS and credit cards, or even cheques. In fact, we are hoping the TRUST platform can be developed to integrate with these other systems, to become an organic payment integrator in time to come,” explained Jarrod Luo, Co-founder and COO of Tembusu Systems.

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  • Johnnie Walker House opens in Singapore

    Johnnie Walker House opens in Singapore

    Diageo partners DFS group to launch first Johnnie Walker House in southeast Asia at Singapore Changi airport.

    Diageo Global Travel together with DFS Group have launched the Johnnie Walker House retail showcase within DFS Group’s new wines and spirits flagship store in the central atrium of the departures concourse at Singapore Changi Airport, Terminal 3.

    The establishment of Johnnie Walker House Singapore marks the seventh addition to the expanding international network of whisky embassies.  This follows the success of existing flagships in Shanghai, Beijing, Seoul and Chengdu, as well as travel retail theatres in the airports of Taipei and Mumbai.

    The milestone also celebrates the first Johnnie Walker House in Singapore and Southeast Asia.

    “With global airport sales growing by more than 12% every year since 2009, and the strategic location of Singapore Changi Airport as a travel hub, Johnnie Walker House Singapore is set to be a game-changer for the luxury spirits segment,” says Doug Bagley, MD, Diageo Global Travel and Middle East. “We combine our revolutionary hospitality concept with our successful travel retail model – providing an enticing experience to modern luxury consumers during the ‘golden hour’ before they board.”

    The design of Johnnie Walker House Singapore is inspired by the combination of two elements.  The first draws from the rich, progressive travel heritage of epic ocean voyages that took Johnnie Walker from the four corners of Scotland to the four corners of the world, making it the world’s first global brand.  The second is the evergreen custom in luxury retail of using trunk shows to provide tailored, exclusive experiences to valued clients.

    “Our long partnership with Diageo has been instrumental in creating the ultimate destination for the best in wines, spirits and tobacco at Changi Airport. It is our shared vision to bring personalized and unique shopping experiences to the traveler. The Johnnie Walker House Singapore at DFS’s new wines & spirits flagship store represents these aspirations and we are delighted to unveil it today,” says Brooke Supernaw, senior VP global merchandising – spirits, wine, and tobacco.

    When travellers step into Johnnie Walker House Singapore, they are transported into a retail theatre of a larger-than-life luxury steamer trunk.  Designed and built by award-winning Singapore-based design agency Asylum, the highly tactile environment of leather, copper, marble, bronze, wood and steel finishing, brings to life the history, provenance and pioneering spirit of Johnnie Walker with:

    • a multi-sensory retail setting, complete with a signature scent ambience emitting the six flavour characteristics of Johnnie Walker Blue Label instantly transporting travellers to the Scottish Highlands;
    • exclusive “theatrical mentoring” sessions, which are immersions in the Johnnie Walker brand and product universe, through a combination of education and entertainment, and storytelling and trial, led by brand ambassadors;
    • a tasting bar where clients can enjoy the pinnacle of whiskies from the Johnnie Walker Super Deluxe portfolio;
    • a ‘whisky constellation wall’ dedicated to the Johnie Walker heritage of the art of blending, and provides a comprehensive index for single malt Scotch whiskies; and
    • privileges extended to members of the Johnnie Walker House with the World of Privileges loyalty programme.

    To commemorate the inauguration of the Johnnie Walker House Singapore, a limited edition of the Johnnie Walker Blue Label will be exclusively available at Singapore Changi Airport. The ivory-coloured ceramic bottle puduced by Wade features the landscape of Scotland and the skyline of Singapore in the brand’s hallmark Willow design.  The collectible was illustrated by Dawn Ng and pictorially depicts the historic journey of Johnnie Walker from Scotland to Singapore – from the time John Walker & Sons was established in 1820, in Kilmarnock, to 1885, when the Johnnie Walker whiskies had made their way to Singapore as one of the world’s first modern luxury icons.

    Pictured above: the limited edition Johnnie Walker Blue Label bottle with the brand’s hallmark Willow design exclusively available at Singapore Changi Airport. Below is the interior of the Johnnie Walker House at Chaigi Airport

    Johnnie Walker Blue Label boutique opens in Taipei

    A multi-sensory Johnnie Walker Blue Label boutique has opened in the Terminal 2 Departures Concourse of Taoyuan Airport, Taipei.

    On first entering, travellers will experience the scents of honey and citrus fruits and brand ambassadors guide them through the flavours on a tasting journey of the whisky.

    The story of the casks is told on a wall of oak barrels. These explain how the brand has the largest reserves of Scotch whisky in the world but only 1 in 10,000 of these casks drawn from the four corners of Scotland contain whiskies of sufficient character to produce the signature taste.

    The craftsmanship is reflected on the second wall. It tells the story of the lineage of master blenders and how today’s master blender selects and blends.

    A video animation at the centre of the installation describes how the whisky is produced in limited quantities and how it evokes the authentic, powerful character and flavour of a traditional 19th century blend – 1867 Old Highland Whisky.

    Visitors can also take away a special memento of their travels – any bottle purchased in the adjacent travel retail unit can be engraved with a personal message, free of charge.

    Fairbrother explains: “Our aim is to provide shoppers with an extraordinary retail experience – this beautiful, multi-sensory retail activation follows the success of similar pop-ups in the Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris and Johannesburg International Airport in South Africa last year.

    “This luxury boutique and the recent launch of our pioneering Johnnie Walker House in Taoyuan Airport is testament to our focus and commitment to innovation in travel retail in this region.”

    The store officially opened for business in March and it will welcome global travellers in the Terminal 2 Departures until the end of June 2015.

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  • Launches and Deals Announced at CommunicAsia, EnterpriseIT and BroadcastAsia 2015

    Launches and Deals Announced at CommunicAsia, EnterpriseIT and BroadcastAsia 2015

    Asia’s leading infocomm technology and broadcasting industry event maintains its position as platform of choice for companies to announce major launches and partnerships

    Over the past four days, Marina Bay Sands has been abuzz with activity as CommunicAsia2015, EnterpriseIT2015 and BroadcastAsia2015 brought the movers and shakers of the infocomm technology (ICT) and broadcasting industry together under one roof.

    Dell, Panasonic, Samsung and Sony, household names renowned for their consumer electronics chose CommunicAsia, EnterpriseIT and BroadcastAsia to announce major launches in their B2B segments.

    Panasonic, an exhibitor at both CommunicAsia and BroadcastAsia, announced seven new business technology products and solutions for the Asia Pacific markets. These include the Toughpad FX-X1, a fully-rugged 5-inch tablet, the new AG-DVX200, the world’s first 4K integrated zoom lens camcorder and the world’s lightest 4K+ 3-Chip DLPTM Laser Projector alongside the latest in mobile surveillance technology, blu-ray data storage, and professional broadcast video equipment.

    “Asia Pacific is a fast-growing dynamic marketplace, and presents huge opportunities for Panasonic across all our B2B business segments from integrated solutions to audio visual products,” said Hiro Sakamoto, Managing Director of Panasonic System Solutions Asia Pacific. “Our commitment to delivering total end-to-end solutions in the region is an integral part of our growth strategy. CommunicAsia2015 and BroadcastAsia2015 was an ideal platform for us to launch new products and solutions for the Asia Pacific markets as part of our commitment to strengthen our B2B business.”

    At CommunicAsia, Dell launched its new Internet of Things Gateway, while at BroadcastAsia, Samsung unveiled the world’s first low temperature video wall, and Sony – their new HXR-NX100 professional camcorder.

    Handset makers Huawei, PHICOMM and RugGear also launched their flagships P8, P660 and GranTour Series – RG730 respectively at CommunicAsia.

    “CommunicAsia, EnterpriseIT and BroadcastAsia are cornerstone events in the Asia Pacific ICT and broadcasting industries. With experts and decision-makers from a wide range of fields, the events provide an important Asian platform for companies and industry leaders alike to announce new, best-of-breed launches, and deliver key announcements that not only signal a pivotal shift in how enterprises are embracing technology in the way business is conducted, it also demonstrates clearly how technology has become indispensable in the new generation of business growth strategies. We continuously aspire to deliver great, if not better, quality events as countries and regions make further inroads in their smart cities journey towards a hyper-connected digital world,” said Lindy Wee, Chief Executive of event organiser, Singapore Exhibition Services.

    “I had no idea how big CommunicAsia was. There are so many high profile companies and people here. It has been great to meet these people in person and develop new friendships and business relationships that are going to help my own business grow,” said CommunicAsia2015 Summit speaker and CEO of MCOI, Joshua Steimle.

    Smart Technologies to realise Singapore’s Smart Nation initiative Dr. Yaacob Ibrahim, Minister for Communications and Information announced at the opening ceremony of CommunicAsia, EnterpriseIT and BroadcastAsia that Singapore has entered the “build” phase of its Smart Nation initiative.

    In support of Singapore’s Smart Nation vision, local company ST Electronics launched the Intelligent Aggregation Gateway (iAG) Box – a key enabler to ubiquitous connectivity for smart cities. Facilitating sensor communication infrastructure on a single secure platform, the iAG box can be deployed in an urban environment to help with the management of a city’s key infrastructure for public safety, healthcare, transport, environment and utilities.

    Alongside major conglomerates, also playing a significant role in paving the way for Singapore becoming a ‘Smart Nation’ are start-ups like CtrlWorks, Neeuro and Zap!. At CommunicAsia, CtrlWorks showcased Axon, an intelligent robot powered by cloud robotics technology, easing manpower needs for areas such as logistics and hospitals. Neeuro pioneered an innovative EEG brainwave headgear that, when paired with Memorie – a mobile app with entertaining games suited for people of all ages, can train different aspects of the brain’s cognitive functions through completion of specific tasks, and enable them to apply the attained skills to daily activities. Another exciting product launch is Zap!, an ‘Uber’ courier service that offers less than two-hour deliveries from as low as S$5.

    Australian firms announced major deal at CommunicAsia2015

    On the international front at CommunicAsia, ICT companies from Australia marked a decade of participation. The 49-strong delegation from the Victoria region of Australia announced a range of new partnerships, expansions, licensing deals and international joint ventures centred on ICT health and medical technology industries. UnityHealth licensed its award winning eLearning platform, iTherapeutices, to Singapore based MIMS. Proximiti announced the expansion of company operations through two new regional hubs in Singapore and India. flexAnswer Solutions signed a five-year renewal contract with Changi Airport Group, and new contracts with seven Singapore government agencies.

    “Victoria has a strategy to help our ICT, health and medical technology companies to become part of global supply chains in knowledge creation, research, product development and commercialisation. The Andrews Labor Government is proud to be showcasing our state’s world class ICT capabilities at CommunicAsia2015, the most important ICT expo in South East Asia,” said Australian Minister of Training and Skills, Steve Herbert.

    Shifts in broadcasting economics addressed at BroadcastAsia2015

    With consumers increasingly taking control of where and when they want to access content, BroadcastAsia2015 responded by bringing together the latest in OTT and 4K technology, media asset management (MAM) and video analytics.

    ARRIS, a global innovator in IP, video and broadband technology gave BroadcastAsia attendees an exclusive first look of its 2015 Consumer Entertainment Index. It is one of the only global studies of its kind undertaken annually that looks at the evolution of entertainment through the lens of consumer engagement with content, connected devices, and each other.

    “This week at BroadcastAsia2015, we shared a first look of the findings of our ARRIS Consumer Entertainment Index. This event provided the perfect platform for us to talk about the evolving trends of consumers from across APAC. This year’s study revealed that while consumers’ consumption habits are changing, there are many frustrations, such as challenges with streaming and Wi-Fi connectivity, and experiencing quality mobile TV content through cellular and mobile Wi-Fi streaming services,” said Tim Gropp, Senior Vice President, Sales, Asia Pacific, ARRIS. “Understanding their concerns present significant opportunities for service providers. Beyond addressing these issues, businesses can look at developing new and differentiated offerings that would be most relevant to viewers.”

    “BroadcastAsia is THE meeting place for broadcasters in the region. The wide spectrum of products and variety of exhibitors allow me to choose the ideal digital solutions for our company’s ICT strategy,” said BroadcastAsia2015 visitor Alain Roger Poirier, Chief Operating Officer, Bloomberg TV Malaysia.

    Best Practices and Growth Potential – The Focus of Industry Discussions

    More than 1,000 industry leaders and professionals gathered at CommunicAsia2015 Summit, BroacastAsia2015 International Conference and the Creative Content Production Conference to discuss latest ICT trends, fundamental shifts in broadcasting economics, and digital media challenges.

    “BroadcastAsia2015 International Conference was a good combination of both technical and commercial aspects of cloud and virtualisation, as it applies to all video applications. Attendees were a good balance between IT, enterprises and those with broadcast experience,” said Ian Trow, BroadcastAsia2015 International Conference speaker and Senior Director of Emerging Technology and Strategy at Harmonic.

    “The social TV and second screen track was absolutely outstanding this year. 2014 and 2015 has seen some of the biggest changes in OTT, social media and the second screen and our panelists and speakers represented all different parts of the business. From gamification to analytics and video this year’s BroadcastAsia was truly enlightening when it came to understand the future of TV,” said BroadcastAsia2015 delegate and Senior Vice President of the Shorty Awards & Muck Rack, Natan Edelsburg.

    “The session was especially enlightening in terms of service providers’ business plans to leverage convergence to deliver cross platform services that are engaging to customers,” said Yuvarami T, Director, Media Development Authority, a CommunicAsia2015 Summit delegate.

    More than 48,000 attendees from 101 countries and regions, including visitors, exhibiting staff, conference speakers and delegates, and members of media, got to witness at CommunicAsia, EnterpriseIT and BroadcastAsia how technology could be harnessed to better connect cities, governments, enterprises and consumers.

    The event will return to Marina Bay Sands on 31 May – 3 June 2016.

    About CommunicAsia

    At CommunicAsia2015, the latest innovative technologies from Big Data, Business Analytics, Cloud technologies, IoT, to Zigbee will be unveiled. These advances are poised to change the way we live and work. www.CommunicAsia.com

    As Asia’s largest integrated ICT event, CommunicAsia2015 is held concurrently with EnterpriseIT2015 and BroadcastAsia2015.

    EnterpriseIT2015 is the leading event for businesses to source for the latest innovations and solutions that enable them to stay relevant in the rapidly digitalising and consumer-led business landscape. These innovations include connected home, smart office, wearable devices and technologies, mobile payment, mobile health and more. www.goto-enterpriseit.com.

    BroadcastAsia2015 is the largest representative integrated event for film, TV and entertainment industries. www.Broadcast-Asia.com.

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  • Travel specialist DFS Group unveils store at Changi Airport

    Travel specialist DFS Group unveils store at Changi Airport

    Luxury travel specialist DFS Group has opened its largest global store: a wine, spirits and tobacco flagship at Singapore’s Changi Airport.

    The store, in the airport’s Terminal 3, covers 11,400 sq ft across two floors. Designed by award-winning interior designer Masamichi Katayama, the shop features the Raffles Long Bar, in collaboration with Singapore’s famous Raffles Hotel. The ground floor also includes atrium tasting bars and a private lounge.

    Drinks brands Absolut, Dom Pérignon, Glenfiddich, Hendrick’s, Hennessy, Johnnie Walker, The Macallan, Martell, and Penfolds are showcasing their heritage and products within individually designed boutiques.

    DFS Group chief executive and chairman Philippe Schaus said: “When we embarked on this unique project, we wanted to offer Singapore, the most renowned travel destination in Southeast Asia with the most modern airport, a wines and spirits store of a quality and richness unlike anywhere else in the world.

    “That is why we secured the collaboration of Masamichi Katayama to build this one-of-a-kind, two-level experiential store, drawing inspiration from the most stylish bars and restaurants around the world as well as from the traditional and historic cellars of France and Scotland.”

    Lee Seow Hiang, chief executive of Changi Airport Group, added: “The store – with its stunning façade and double-volume grandeur – is not only a design showpiece on its own, but the extensive range of products and unique boutiques truly enhance the overall retail experience.”

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