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SZA receives ‘love galore’ as Hitmaker of The Year winner! ‘It’s ironic’ after ‘punching up so long’

 It was all about love, love, love as SZA won Variety’s Hitmaker of the Year award!

Source: Christopher Polk / Getty

The “Good Days” singer was accompanied on stage by her goddaughter, Nova, when she accepted the award presented by Variety’s Executive Editor of Music, Jem Aswad. SZA thanked her loved ones in the speech. After listing her parents and homies, her goddaughter’s sweet voice interrupted, “And Nova.”

“And Nova,” the honoree echoed. “Thank you to Nova for bringing me joy and teaching me childlike wonder and reminding me what it’s like to not know what is going on and still be happy anyway,” the artist improvised, inciting giggles from the audience.

 

SZA built a following in the underground music scene by making fan favorites like “Babylon” and “Child’s Play.” However, some critics claimed her tunes weren’t radio-friendly.

 

“I just think it’s really ironic that I’m considered a hitmaker because punching up for so long, the whole conversation was, ‘I don’t make radio music. I don’t have any radio hits. I don’t have a sound.’ I realized the biggest thank you is to those who saw me as a hitmaker before that,” said the “All The Stars” singer. “To all my fans that listened to me before I ever went number one or anything like that.”

 

SZA accepts the Hitmaker of the Year award. | Variety Hitmakers presented by @sonyelectronics https://t.co/hmQuUd5Zxz pic.twitter.com/Ut2t1vQVa7

— Variety (@Variety) December 2, 2023

 

SZA then explained how her definition of a hitmaker wasn’t in the traditional sense.

“I really feel like being a hitmaker is just having other people, the public, believe what God and your inner circle that you’ve been blessed to have around you already sees in you. And I’m grateful to have an exceptional inner circle.”

 

 She continued, “Thank you for taking the time to break it down for me and just give me patience and encourage me to believe that, ‘It’s okay. There will be a time for you to do your thing and they’ll play you one day. And that day did come. And I’m so grateful.”

 

Aswad told the audience, “It’s very rare for an album to top the charts, the critics’ polls, and win people’s hearts the way SZA’s album, SOS, has done. She was our first choice for Hitmaker of the Year.”

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by SZA (@sza)

 

The 34-year-old has been making waves since her debut album Ctrl in 2017. After the release of her highly anticipated sophomore album, SOS, she solidified herself as a chart-topping artist. The Grammy winner has smashed not only Whitney Houston’s records but the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin’s. In addition, SZA — born Solana Rowe — has had the longest-running No. 1 song on the Billboard Top R&B charts.

 

In addition, Variety’s honoree earned nine Grammy nominations for the 2024 ceremony — more than any other artist. The noms were a magical way to end her tour, which has received stellar reviews. Fans spoke glowingly about the signer’s delivery and stage presence.

 

SZA’s next album is already in the pipeline

Source: Christopher Polk / Getty

Solana plans to release a deluxe version of SOS  titled Lana that will only expand her reach and impact. The “Broken Clocks” singer admits she is unclear about the exact direction of the album. Like many Beyhivers, she asks, “What would Beyonce do?” when she’s in a jam.

 

“It’s definitely turning into its own album… and I guess I could drop a new album randomly, because no one’s actually expecting that from me right now,” she told the publication. “But I can’t tell if now’s the time to be consistent, or carefree.”

 

On the one hand it’s like, ‘What would Beyonce do?,’ but I am also deeply inspired by people who do whatever the f**k they want, like Frank Ocean and Andre 3000. Some of my favorite songs were the ones that I dropped on SoundCloud [early in her career], because it was so stress free.”

 

If you missed her tour (and you’re willing to take a trip over the pond), no worries! The highly decorated Artist has a second European tour leg for “SOS” in the works.

 

The “Conceited” singer’s 2023 has been stellar, and her 2024 is set to be just as amazing.

 

SZA once said, “I’m bettin on me,” and it is undoubtedly paying off.

 

 

— Bossip

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Desktop Metal now shipping the Figur G15 – a Digital Sheet Metal Forming machine that eliminates the need for custom tooling

  • The Figur G15 uses patent-pending Digital Sheet Forming (DSF) technology in which a software-driven ceramic toolhead on a gantry shapes standard sheet metal into parts with up to 2,000 lbs of force
  • With a maximum sheet size of 1600 x 1200 mm (63.0 x 47.2 in), the Figur G15 delivers parts with a draw depth up to 400 mm (16 in) in Z without custom forming tools, molds, dies, or presses
  • The G15 supports forming a range of metals and sheet thicknesses – including steel up to 2.0 mm and aluminum up to 2.5 mm – and delivers a high quality surface finish
  • Manufacturers now have a competitive way to offer formed sheet metal parts and products quickly for automotive, appliance, and aerospace applications without the high startup and development costs normally associated with sheet metal fabrication
  • First shown at IMTS 2022, the Figur G15 has sold out of its initial manufacturing run and is accelerating production to meet demand
  • A video showcasing how Saltworks will be using the Figur G15 is available at TeamDM.com/Saltworks

 

 

BOSTON — (BUSINESS WIRE) — #3Dprinting — Desktop Metal (NYSE: DM),a global leader in Additive Manufacturing 2.0 technologies for mass production, today announced the first commercial shipments of the Figur G15, an innovative Digital Sheet Forming (DSF) machine tool, to Saltworks Fab, a Florida-based automotive restoration and hot rod company.

 

Satworks is installing two Figur G15 platforms at its Sarasota, Florida facility to accelerate its auto restoration business and expand access to metal forming services to new customers. The company often creates metal body panels that are no longer commercially available with manual hammering and laborious forming processes.

Investing in the Figur G15, the company will dramatically reduce production times while also having the flexibility of digital manufacturing to create complex shapes, efficient one-offs, or produce short-runs of designs. Saltworks recently demonstrated the capabilities of the Figur G15 at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where the team exhibited the entire side body of a Mercedes Gullwing created of 6061 aluminum panels formed on the G15 in under 10 hours for the entire 15-piece assembly.

 

“Our team has over 100 years of combined metal-shaping experience, and we’re excited to bring the latest digital metal forming technology in-house,” said David Jacobsen, CEO of Saltworks Fab. “The Figur G15 buys us time. It allows us to bring vintage vehicles back to their former glory while also enabling us to enter a whole new level of business helping customers that currently don’t have the ability or resources to form metal. Figur G15 allows us to expand access to metal-shaping services to a broader variety of small businesses, design shops, and self-builders.”

 

The Figur G15 is the first commercially available machine tool platform to shape sheet metal on demand without custom tooling. Introduced at the 2022 International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) in Chicago, the Figur G15 uses patent-pending DSF technology in which a software-driven ceramic toolhead on a gantry shapes standard sheet metal into parts with up to 2,000 lbs of forming force without tooling, with software that simplifies the creation of sheet metal part production.

 

Recently, custom classic car influencer Rob Ida of Rob Ida Concepts in New Jersey posted on Instagram @rob_ida about how he is using the Figur G15 technology to create components for a 1955 Tucker Carioca, a vehicle concept from legendary carmarker Preston Tucker that never made it from drawing to production.

 

“The response to Figur G15 from the market across a wide variety of sectors has been exciting,” said Justin Nardone, CEO of Figur, a Desktop Metal brand. “The G15 eliminates a lot of the work required when forming metal, such as the design and manufacturing of tools and dies. Our system produces designs quickly, accurately, and repeatedly, so manufacturers are able to focus on the craftsmanship of design while getting their products to market faster and more efficiently.”

 

Saltworks is planning to purchase two additional G15 systems, for a total of four, to join its initial fleet in the near future with plans to run all four machines over three shifts to keep up with demand.

To learn more about Figur, visit figur.desktopmetal.com.

 

About Desktop Metal:

Desktop Metal (NYSE:DM) is driving Additive Manufacturing 2.0, a new era of on-demand, digital mass production of industrial, medical, and consumer products. Our innovative 3D printers, materials, and software deliver the speed, cost, and part quality required for this transformation. We’re the original inventors and world leaders of the 3D printing methods we believe will empower this shift, binder jetting and digital light processing. Today, our systems print metal, polymer, sand and other ceramics, as well as foam and recycled wood. Manufacturers use our technology worldwide to save time and money, reduce waste, increase flexibility, and produce designs that solve the world’s toughest problems and enable once-impossible innovations. Learn more about Desktop Metal and our #TeamDM brands at www.desktopmetal.com.

 

Forward-looking statements:

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in these communications, including statements regarding Desktop Metal’s future results of operations and financial position, financial targets, business strategy, and plans and objectives for future operations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this document, including but not limited to: risks associated with the integration of the business and operations of acquired businesses; Desktop Metals’ ability to realize the benefits from cost saving measures; supply and logistics disruptions, including shortages and delays. For more information about risks and uncertainties that may impact Desktop Metal’s business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects generally, please refer to Desktop Metal’s reports filed with the SEC, including without limitation the “Risk Factors” and/or other information included in the Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on August 3, 2023, and such other reports as Desktop Metal has filed or may file with the SEC from time to time. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and Desktop Metal, Inc. assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Contacts

Investor Relations:

(857) 504-1084

DesktopMetalIR@icrinc.com

Media Relations:

Sarah Webster

(313) 715-6988

sarahwebster@desktopmetal.com

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Angel Reese reveals Shaq ‘facetimed’ her daily during ‘mental health’ hiatus & cryptically claps back at haters

Angela Reese makes her long-awaited comeback with a warning for haters: “Just make sure that apology is as loud as the disrespect.”

Source: Ethan Miller / Getty

 

The 21-year-old returned to the hardwood for the first time since the LSU Tigers played Kent State on November 14. Angel helped her team secure a victory over Virginia Tech, scoring 19 points and nine rebounds during her 29 minutes of play.

 

TMZ reports that during a post-game interview, Reese revealed the reason behind her 4-game absence. She took time away from the court for a mental health break with daily moral support from Shaq. The First-Team All-American explained that she did not want to be “a cancer in the locker room.”

 

Angel Reese came in postgame, said, “who’s happy to see me?! I know y’all are!”

 

She’s talked a lot about her mental health, taking time for herself and how important that was for her.

 

I asked her who she leaned on during the last couple of weeks. She talked a lot with Shaq: pic.twitter.com/kHcK8UdqNW

— Cory Diaz (@ByCoryDiaz) December 1, 2023

 

As Angel walked into the press area, she quipped, “How happy are y’all to see me? I know y’all are. Let’s have some fun here,” before taking a seat.

 

After questioning began, she told journalists, “My mental health is the most important thing before anything. And I’m going to make sure I’m OK before anything. Because I don’t want to cause anything, harm or any cancer within the locker room.”

 

She continued, “So, being able to take a reset to myself. Like I said before, I am human. I’m not just an athlete and that’s OK to do. Pro’s do it all the time.”

 

Angel added, “So, whatever stories that were wrote and written, don’t believe everything you read. I’m back, and I’m happy, and I’m here. And I’m moving forward, and I’m gonna help take this team as far as I can.”

 

Welcome back Angel Reese. pic.twitter.com/xpeS2gSWGL

— ACESholding22 (@colecamkicks) December 1, 2023

 

The Bayou Barbie has received support from some big names, including retired baller Shaquille O’Neal. Angel claims Shaq calls her daily to “check in.”

 

“Having supportive people has been really important to me,” she said.

 

After naming her mother as the main character in her supporting cast, she said, “I talk to Shaq everyday. He FaceTimes me everyday. He checked on me. He called me every single day to make sure I was good. He told me everyday this too shall pass.”

 

She continued, “He’s been here before. He knows what it takes and just being able to have somebody like that was something that was really good for me.”

 

“He told me when I was right. He told me when I was wrong. He told me what I needed to do to get back to where I needed to be and I know he’s gonna call me after the game, if he hasn’t already.”

 

Angel Reese returns with a message about disrespect after a break from playing

Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

 

Following her team’s victory, Reese posted a cryptic message to Instagram on Friday, “Just make sure that apology is as loud as the disrespect,” she wrote.

 

Reese never named names in the post. It seemingly addressed those who negatively speculated why she was absent from the court. Some social media users blamed the hiatus on poor grades, while others attributed it to her bad attitude.

 

So it looks like Angel Reese was NOT:

– Academically ineligible
– Going out of her mind
– Letting fame get to her
– Making too much money
– Not taking basketball seriously

 

Too many people wanted an “I knew it” moment with the situation and owe an apology pic.twitter.com/JumDgp6LWK

— Martin Soaries | Basketball Jedi 🧘🏾‍♂️🥷🏾🥢💫 (@marsoaries) December 1, 2023

 

During Reese’s leave, Kia Brooks, the mother of her teammate, Flau’jae Johnson, took to Instagram with a message for the Greenville Regional MVP’s mother, Angel Webb Reese.

 

“You definitely know about grammar errors when your daughter got a 2.0-or-less grade point average,” she spewed. “Stop being petty, fake and hateful, and take responsibility for you and your daughter’s actions.”

 

LSU head coach Kim Mulkey’s refusal to bring clarity only intensified speculations, although she did admit “locker room issues” were the catalyst.

 

Upon beating Virginia Tech, Mulkey stated she was “proud of how [Angel] handled herself, proud she’s back to the Angel everybody knows. . . . There’s nothing but positive things about what happened on that floor.”

 

I’m glad to see Angel Reese will be back with her team and playing tonight. I would love to know what the reason she was out is (THEY say her grades slipped but she said that’s not what happened), but I’m also cool if that doesn’t come out because it’s really none of our business pic.twitter.com/EmsxMekKKb

 

— Ultramagnetic LB’s (@LBrothersMedia) November 29, 2023

 

In addition to Reese’s return, Coach Mulkey nabbed her 700th victory. She became the fastest coach to reach this achievement in men’s and women’s collegiate basketball history.

 

Congrats all around!

 

Hopefully, whatever issues the team had were solved, and the ladies can keep their focus on basketball.

 

 

— Bossip

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Business Culture Economics Lifestyle Perks Perspectives Technology

JOTO PR Disruptors reveals key e-commerce strategies post record Cyber Monday sales

In an analysis of Cyber Monday 2023, JOTO PR DisruptorsTM unveils revolutionary AI and AR strategies poised to redefine e-commerce. Discover how these cutting-edge technologies are shaping future consumer trends and driving business success in the digital marketplace.

 

TAMPA, Fla. — JOTO PR Disruptors, a leader in disruptive PR strategies, analyzes the transformative consumer behavior and record-breaking sales trends of Cyber Monday 2023.

 

The BNN Network report on Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2023 revealed a significant uptick in online shopping trends. Notably, Black Friday recorded an impressive $9.8 billion in online sales in the U.S., a 7.5% increase from the previous year, with global online sales reaching $70.9 billion, an 8% increase. Cyber Week was expected to generate $37.2 billion in online spending, a 5.4% increase, and Cyber Monday was projected to hit a record $12 billion in sales.

 

These figures demonstrate a robust growth in e-commerce, driven by substantial discounts and a stronger consumer spending capacity, particularly evident in the increased use of smartphones for shopping​​​​ (1) JOTO PR Disruptors offers insights and disruptive communication tips for companies looking to optimize their e-commerce strategies using the latest AI and AR technologies in 2024.

 

“2023’s Cyber Monday has not only broken sales records but also highlighted significant shifts in consumer behavior,” says Karla Jo Helms, Chief Evangelist and Anti-PR Strategist for JOTO PR Disruptors.

 

“Understanding and leveraging these changes, especially through emerging technologies like AI and AR, is crucial for companies to stay ahead in the digital marketplace.”

 

In anticipation of the evolving market dynamics, JOTO PR Disruptor has outlined three essential strategies that businesses will need to prioritize in 2024. These strategies are designed to effectively respond to the ‘Amazon effect,’ a consumer trend characterized by increasing demands for convenience, efficiency, and tailored shopping experiences. By adopting these approaches, companies can stay ahead in a marketplace heavily influenced by the benchmark set by Amazon, ensuring they remain competitive and in tune with consumer expectations. JOTO PR emphasizes the necessity of these strategies in navigating the shifting landscape of consumer preferences and e-commerce.

 

  1. Optimized E-Commerce Strategies: Integrating AI-driven tools for automating routine processes, improving operational efficiency, and offering personalized shopping experiences. Utilize AR technology to provide virtual try-ons and immersive product demonstrations, transforming how consumers interact with products online.(2)
  2. Leveraged Data Analytics for Personalized Marketing: Employing AI to analyze customer data, including browsing history and purchasing tendencies, for targeted and customized marketing strategies. This approach enhances customer engagement and conversion rates​​​​.(2)
  3. Improved Customer Experience and Engagement: Using AI-powered customer service technologies and AR-driven product demonstrations to increase customer interaction and satisfaction​.(3)

 

To enhance the impact of these innovative technologies, companies will also need to employ dynamic and disruptive communication strategies:

  • Virtual Reality Press Conferences: Host immersive VR press conferences for a hands-on experience of AI and AR e-commerce integrations.
  • Interactive Social Media Campaigns: Engage customers with AR filters and AI-driven interactive content on social media.
  • AI and AR-Driven Storytelling: Use storytelling with AI and AR elements to narrate the brand’s technological journey in e-commerce.
  • Tech Influencer Collaborations: Partner with tech influencers for live demonstrations and insights into AI and AR advancements.
  • Augmented Reality Product Launches: Introduce new products through AR virtual events, showcasing innovative e-commerce experiences.

 

“By implementing these AI and AR strategies, companies can leverage the momentum from Cyber Monday, setting the stage for success in the upcoming holiday season and beyond,” concludes Helms.

 

About JOTO PR Disruptors™:

Founded by PR veteran Karla Jo Helms, JOTO PR Disruptors™ emerged from extensive market research with CEOs of fast-growth companies. The agency, established in 2009, combines crisis management skills with advanced media algorithms to develop Anti-PR® campaigns. Based in Tampa Bay, Florida, JOTO PR is globally recognized for its innovative Anti-PR services. More information is available at http://www.jotopr.com

 

About Karla Jo Helms:

Karla Jo Helms is the Chief Evangelist and Anti-PR Strategist for JOTO PR Disruptors™. 

She learned firsthand how unforgiving business can be when millions of dollars are on the line—and how the control of public opinion often determines whether one company is happily chosen, or another is brutally rejected. Being an alumni of crisis management, Karla Jo has worked with litigation attorneys, private investigators and the media to help restore companies of goodwill back into the good graces of public opinion. Helms speaks globally on public relations, how the PR industry itself has lost its way and how, in the right hands, corporations can harness the power of Anti-PR to drive markets and impact market perception. 

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Bluevine surpasses $1 billion in small business deposits

Trusted By Over 500,000 SMBs, Bluevine Is Now On Par With The Top 20% Of FDIC-Insured Banks and Savings Institutions Ranked By Deposit Volume

 

 

JERSEY CITY, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Bluevine, the one-stop digital banking platform specifically designed for small businesses, on Friday announced it has surpassed $1 billion in managed deposits by its small business banking customers.

 

This significant asset threshold has largely been attracted by Bluevine Business Checking, the company’s unique no monthly fee,1 high-yield SMB checking account with a growing suite of built-in business applications, launched only three years ago – and now puts Bluevine on par with the top 20% of FDIC-insured banks and savings institutions2 ranked by deposit volume, according to the most recent FDIC quarterly report.

Over the past decade since its inception, Bluevine has built a market-leading digital banking platform that has served over 500,000 business owners and delivered more than $14 billion in loans to help simplify financial operations and facilitate access to growth capital for its customers, which have been historically underserved by traditional banks.

 

“We knew that a checking account could be more than just a utility for business owners, and actually evolve into an essential application to run their companies successfully. The Bluevine approach was to provide greater transparency and value by stripping out the extraneous fees and penalties that exist in traditional business banking along with providing high yield on operating balances. In addition, we built a digital-first experience that eliminated the need for even a single branch visit, and integrated a range of sophisticated business features that would empower customers to streamline their financials – supporting the way they prefer to run their companies,” explained Eyal Lifshitz, Co-Founder and CEO of Bluevine.

 

“The introduction of Bluevine Business Checking has filled a long-standing void in the market, evidenced by the steady growth rate of customer accounts, deposits, and payments volume in a relatively short time period. Today marks a significant company milestone – we are humbled by and grateful to our customers for trusting Bluevine with more than $1 billion in managed deposits,” Lifshitz continued.

 

Throughout 2023, Bluevine has added key capabilities to its Bluevine Business Checking account, which offers 2.0% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on balances up to $250,000,3 with no monthly fees and unlimited transactions as part of its standard plan. Notably, the company recently introduced a small business credit card and launched accounts payable, giving small business owners and their teams sophisticated bill management, automation, user access control, and enhanced payment capabilities. Bluevine also expanded FDIC insurance coverage on balances up to $3 million4 (12x the industry standard of $250,000) and added an international payments and FX solution in partnership with Wise.

 

In November, the company launched Bluevine Premier, providing business owners with all the features of the standard plan, plus the opportunity to earn 4.25% APY on their Bluevine Business Checking balances up to $3 million, along with 50% off most standard plan payments fees, and priority access to customer support. Designed for scaling companies with growing needs, Bluevine Premier provides APY and payment fees on par with commercial offerings that are typically reserved only for large corporations with much higher balances and volumes of transactions compared to a typical small business.

 

Bluevine Premier customers who both maintain a $100,000 minimum average daily balance across their Bluevine Business Checking account and sub-accounts and spend at least $5,000 on their Bluevine Business Debit Mastercard® during each billing cycle incur no monthly fee. Businesses that do not meet these criteria can still benefit from Premier for a monthly fee of $95. Business owners can also take advantage of a one-month free trial for Bluevine Premier.

 

About Bluevine

Bluevine provides a one-stop digital banking platform specifically designed for small businesses. Since launching in 2013, Bluevine’s innovative and intuitive products, including business checking, integrated accounts payable, and lines of credit, have helped over 500,000 business owners save time and money so they can focus on what matters most: growing their business.

 

Bluevine is backed by leading private and institutional investors, including Lightspeed Venture Partners, Menlo Ventures, 83North, Citi Ventures, ION Crossover Partners, SVB Capital, Nationwide Insurance, and M12 (Microsoft’s Venture Arm). Bluevine is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking Services provided by Coastal Community Bank, Member FDIC. Lines of credit are issued by Celtic Bank, a Utah-chartered Industrial Bank, Member FDIC. For more information, please visit bluevine.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

 

_________________________

1No monthly fee only applies to the Bluevine Business Checking Account Standard plan.

2FDIC-insured banks and savings institutions include commercial banks or savings institutions that are state or federally chartered.

3Customers will earn 2.0% interest on total balances up to and including $250,000 only if they meet the monthly debit transaction or deposit requirements described in section M of the Account Agreement. No interest earned on balances over $250,000. Any interest accrued and payable for an Account or Sub-Account will be paid to your main Account.

4Bluevine accounts are FDIC insured up to $3,000,000 per depositor through Coastal Community Bank, Member FDIC and our program banks. $3,000,000 in FDIC insurance is offered by multiplying the standard $250,000 FDIC coverage across multiple banks. For complete details, please visit https://www.bluevine.com/business-checking/fdic-protection.

Contacts

Media:

Kevin McLaughlin

Senior Director, PR & Communications

press@Bluevine.com

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Business Culture Lifestyle Science

Rotunda Capital Partners invests in Door Pro America

Partnership supports growth of market leader in the direct-to-consumer residential install, repair and replacement garage door services industry.

 

BETHESDA, Md. & EVANSTON, Ill. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Rotunda Capital Partners “(Rotunda)” has invested in Door Pro America “(Door Pro” or the “Company),” a leading direct-to-consumer installer and service provider of residential garage doors with eight strategic locations throughout the United States.

 

Headquartered in Gainesville, Virginia, Door Pro has expanded rapidly through organic growth since its founding in 1998.

 

Currently, Door Pro is one of the largest and most reputable residential garage door service providers in the country, serving customers throughout the U.S. with facilities in Virginia, Maryland, Illinois, Washington, Oregon, New York, New Jersey, and Colorado. Fueled by their market leading reputation, Door Pro is a leading installer of Amarr Garage Doors & Commercial Doors and LiftMaster garage doors and openers and is quickly becoming a premier provider of 24/7 maintenance services, serving the residential repair, replacement and new installation markets.

 

The Company will continue to be led by Co-Presidents Larry Notto and Chris Traxler, who will also maintain an ownership stake alongside Rotunda Capital Partners Fund III. As part of the transaction, the Company has partnered with Jeff Mick, the former President of Amarr Garage Doors & Commercial Doors. Mr. Mick serves as a strategic advisor and member of the Board of Directors.

 

Dan Lipson, a Rotunda Managing Partner, said, “Door Pro is one of the premier national platforms in the residential garage door services industry. The Company has grown rapidly by adding new branch locations throughout the country, all the while maintaining their leading reputation of excellent customer service. We are excited to partner with Larry, Chris and the team to continue to build on the Company’s track record of growth and success.”

 

“Leveraging our significant experience in the residential services space, including our investments in Storm Smart, Canter Power Systems and U.S. Waterproofing, we quickly recognized Door Pro’s growth potential and position as the acquiror of choice for residential garage door service providers looking for growth investments,” added John Fruehwirth, a Managing Partner at Rotunda.

 

Mr. Notto commented, “From my first meeting with the Rotunda team, I knew they would be the best partner to help us take Door Pro to the next level. Their expertise and track record in residential services is extremely impressive, and their expertise in growing founder-owned businesses, especially in the residential services arena, is well recognized. Both Chris and I look forward to partnering with Rotunda and leveraging their experience and resources to grow our company faster than we could have on our own.”

 

Ryan Aprill, Rotunda Principal, added, “Door Pro is another successful example of Rotunda’s differentiated and thematic sourcing approach to partnering with family and founder-owned companies. We have been working with Jeff for some time to identify the right platform in the residential garage door service industry and we believe we have found it in Door Pro. Rotunda is excited to continue scaling the business, both organically and through acquisitions.”

 

The Door Pro investment represents the third platform in Rotunda’s latest fund, Rotunda Capital Partners Fund III, L.P. The Rotunda team included Dan Lipson, John Fruehwirth, Ryan Aprill, Cara Hauan and Karthik Munugala. Benesch Friedlander Coplan & Aronoff LLP served as legal counsel to Rotunda.

 

About Door Pro America

Door Pro America is a leading provider of residential install, repair and replacement garage door services across the U.S. Founded in 1998, Door Pro America has established a reputation for providing the highest quality customer service available in its eight markets, including Virgnia, Maryland, Illinois, Washington, Oregon, New York, New Jersey and Colorado. Door Pro America holds Double Diamond and Premier dealer status with Amarr Garage Doors & Commercial Doors and LiftMaster. More information about Door Pro can be found at www.doorproamerica.com.

 

About Rotunda Capital Partners

Rotunda Capital Partners is an operationally oriented private equity firm focused on transforming family-founder owned companies into dynamic, data-driven platforms able to achieve and manage significant growth. Since its founding in 2009, Rotunda has partnered with management teams to build great businesses within three primary sectors: value-added distribution, asset-light logistics and industrial, business, and residential services. Rotunda strives to achieve replicable results by implementing its Rotunda Performance System to create strategic alignment, develop lean processes and create robust, data-driven infrastructures. For more information, visit www.rotundacapital.com.

Contacts

Margaux Valle

Head of Business Development

Rotunda Capital Partners

(240) 2962-1707

PR@rotundacapital.com

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AACCNJ founder and CEO addresses 2 major business issues for upcoming NJ State elections

As statewide elections approach, the president of African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ), John E. Harmon Sr., faces the essential conversations regarding Equity, Accountability and Reciprocity for Black businesses working for the State of N.J.

 

“As we approach two major upcoming elections for our state — US Senator and Governor, the question that remains unanswered is what’s in it for us?” Harmon asked in a recent op-ed.

 

The immediate reaction for some, is that Harmon is talking about the 1.2 million blacks which still have the highest poverty, unemployment low median income, home ownership of 35% and a net worth of approximately – $17,000 vs. $322,000 for white New Jersey residents, or is he referring to the over 88,000 black businesses of which only 3.5 percent have employees?

 

Perhaps he is speaking about our state legislators still allowing education, occupation, and credit scoring to be used as proxies to determine auto insurance premiums for licensed drivers. During the last legislative session, the minimum insurance coverage was raised from $15,000 to $30,000, another direct adverse impact on those with minimal disposable income in New Jersey, this was in addition to the three auto insurance premium proxies which are burdensome alone.

 

Our state also allows its taxpayers to contribute to the funding of public projects and a select group not only receives a preference when these opportunities are distributed but it’s a culture of perpetual practice. For example, in 2004 Governor McGreevey issued Executive Order Number 1[1]which allowed all public contracts to be governed by Project Labor Agreements (PLA) which only allowed for non-unionized businesses to participate up to $5 million. This Executive Order is approaching its 20th Anniversary, without any change notwithstanding the election of several US Senators and Governors since that time.

 

It is important to note, that our last two democratic presidents whose PLA thresholds at the Federal level were 5 and 7 times higher: President Obama $25 million[2] and Biden $35 million[3], than Governor McGreevey’s Executive Order threshold of $5 million in 2004. How can the Democratic Party in NJ be so misaligned on an economic agenda that it is supposedly representative of its constituency?

 

According to the Associated Builders and Contractors New Jersey Chapter, 79% of our state’s construction firms are non-union and 21% are members of a trade union. Additionally, only 2% of minority contractors are members of a trade union.

 

Furthermore, as we begin to embark on the $16 billion dollar Gateway Tunnel project which PLA threshold will take precedence, McGreevey’s five million on Biden’s $35 million.

It is time for our state and federal representatives to respond to these and other questions.

 

The time has long passed for the voters of New Jersey to have a consensus on an equitable economic agenda versus party bosses. The potential implications would not only be beneficial to blacks but to all of New Jersey’s taxpayers.

 

The above are kitchen table pocketbook issues that affect hardworking New Jerseyans every day and our current policy makers continue to remain silent on these transformational issues.

 

Trust me, we have asked these questions at every level of government and their silence is a pure insult. There is plenty of room for compromise on each of these issues.

 

So again, what will be the difference this election season because for now the status quo appears in full effect. The same old politicians seeking to advance the same old playbook.

 

We need the citizens of New Jersey from every community to muster the courage and ask the above questions now and demand an on-the-record response regarding where they stand. In the coming years there will be a tremendous amount of economic opportunity to potentially be shared. Let’s join hands and reach a consensus to improve the competitiveness of our state.

 

Thank you.

John E. Harmon Sr.

 

[1] https://nj.gov/infobank/circular/eom1.htm

[2] https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/realitycheck/the-press-office/executive-order-use-project-labor-agreements-federal-construction-projects

[3] https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2022/02/04/executive-order-on-use-of-project-labor-agreements-for-federal-construction-projects/

 

About the African American Chamber of Commerce of N.J. 

The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ) performs an essential role in the economic viability of New Jersey. While providing a platform for New Jersey’s African American business leaders, to speak with a collective voice, the AACCNJ advocates and promotes economic diversity fostering a climate of business growth through major initiatives centering on education and public policy. The Chamber serves as a proactive advocacy group with a 501(c) 3 tax exemption, which is shared by the National Black Chamber of Commerce.

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BJ’s One® Mastercard® cardholders can earn double rewards during special event

First-ever four-day event will take place December 7 – 10, 2023, in partnership with Mastercard.

 


MARLBOROUGH, Mass. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — BJ’s Wholesale Club (NYSE: BJ), a leading operator of membership warehouse clubs, announced today an exclusive rewards event that will let BJ’s One Mastercard cardholders earn double rewards Dec.7 – 10, 2023.

 

BJ’s One Mastercard cardholders will earn double rewards on practically everything in-club, online at BJs.com or in the BJ’s app. That means BJ’s One+ Mastercard cardholders will earn 10% back* in rewards1 and BJ’s One Mastercard cardholders will earn 6% back* in rewards1 during the promotion period.

 

Non-cardholders will also have the chance to earn double rewards when they apply and get approved for a BJ’s One Mastercard in advance of the savings event. To apply for a BJ’s One Mastercard, BJ’s members can visit the member services desk at their local club or BJs.com/BJsone.

 

“The BJ’s One Mastercard program offers our members some of the best rewards in retail with well over $100 million in rewards delivered back to our members this year,” said Bill Werner, Executive Vice President, Strategy and Development, BJ’s Wholesale Club. “To thank our cardholders during the holiday season of giving, we have partnered with Mastercard to double our BJ’s One Mastercard rewards on all purchases at BJ’s from December 7th to December 10th. With up to 10% back in rewards on top of our everyday 25% off grocery store prices, there will be no better time for our members to stock-up for the holidays or splurge on that extra special holiday gift.”

 

With no limit on the amount that can be earned during this special event, members can shop for holiday must-haves and everyday grocery essentials. The rewards can really stack up on BJ’s holiday gifting favorites, like an Xbox Series X 1TB Console (earn up to $49 in rewards) and Land Rover 12V Ride-On Vehicle Range Rover Evoque (earn up to $25 in rewards) or maximize holiday meal prep with a KitchenAid KP26M1X Pro 600 Series 6-Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer (earn up to $39 in rewards).

 

No matter how they shop, members can earn double rewards on practically everything with their BJ’s One Mastercard, including in-club shopping, curbside pickup, in-club pickup, same-day delivery,† ExpressPay®,†† and standard delivery from BJs.com.

 

*Offer valid 12/7/23 – 12/10/23 11:59 PM EST for BJ’s One® and BJ’s One+® Credit Card cardholders only. Bonus reward earnings may take up to one month after the promotion period ends to add to pending earnings. 2x bonus earnings will be applied to eligible purchases in-club at BJ’s front-end registers, on BJs.com, or in the BJ’s app during the promotion period (“Eligible Items”). Eligible Items exclude eye exams, shipping, sales tax, bottle deposits, alcoholic beverages, cigarettes and tobacco-related products, lottery tickets, gift cards, propane, BJ’s Gas®, online optical purchases, membership fees and add-ons, warranties and protection plans, BJ’s services provided by third parties (e.g., BJ’s Travel®), and BJ’s B2B and BJ’s Global Sales transactions. BJ’s One® Credit Card cardholders earn 6% back in rewards (instead of 3%) and BJ’s One+® Credit Card cardholders earn 10% back in rewards (instead of 5%), minus any redeemed rewards, returns, refunds, or credit adjustments, on Eligible Items when they pay for these purchases with their BJ’s One® Credit Card or BJ’s One+® Credit Card, as applicable. BJ’s Business Elite® Mastercard® cardholders are excluded and may not participate in this offer. Purchases made using third-party digital wallets (ex. Apple Pay®) are excluded from this offer. The rewards program is provided by BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. and its terms may change at any time. For full rewards terms and conditions, please see BJs.com/bjsoneterms and BJs.com/terms. Offer is subject to change at any time without notice.

 

†20 item per transaction limit. Only available for purchases up to $750. Paper coupons not available. Cannot be used to purchase gift cards, alcohol, cigarettes, propane, appliances, fireworks, security-protected items or tires.

 

††BJ’s Same-Day Delivery is not available in all ZIP codes. Log in to your account to confirm availability.

 

1There is no cap to the amount you can earn on eligible purchases with your BJ’s One® Credit Card or BJ’s One+® Credit Card, as applicable, and rewards are yours for the life of the account — they will not expire. Must have a minimum balance of $10 in rewards to redeem. Minimum eligible purchase amount is $10 at BJ’s checkout.

 

Credit card offers are subject to credit approval.

 

The rewards program is provided by BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. and its terms may change at any time. For full rewards terms and conditions, please see BJs.com/bjsoneterms and BJs.com/terms.

 

Mastercard and the circles design are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated.

 

About BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc.

BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: BJ) is a leading operator of membership warehouse clubs focused on delivering significant value to its members and serving a shared purpose: “We take care of the families who depend on us.” The company provides a curated assortment of grocery, general merchandise, gasoline and ancillary services to offer a differentiated shopping experience that is further enhanced by its omnichannel capabilities. Headquartered in Marlborough, Massachusetts, the company pioneered the warehouse club model in New England in 1984 and currently operates 239 clubs and 169 BJ’s Gas® locations in 20 states. For more information, please visit us at BJs.com or on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), or Instagram.

 

About Capital One

Capital One Financial Corporation (http://www.capitalone.com) is a financial holding company which, along with its subsidiaries, had $333 billion in deposits and $455.2 billion in total assets as of December 31, 2022. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, Capital One offers a broad spectrum of financial products and services to consumers, small businesses and commercial clients through a variety of channels. Capital One, N.A. has branches located primarily in New York, Louisiana, Texas, Maryland, Virginia, New Jersey and the District of Columbia. A Fortune 500 company, Capital One trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “COF” and is included in the S&P 100 index.

 

Visit the Capital One newsroom for more Capital One news.

 

About Mastercard (NYSE: MA) www.mastercard.com

Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, our innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments and businesses realize their greatest potential. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, we are building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all.

Contacts

Media:
Kirk Saville

Head of Corporate Communications

BJ’s Wholesale Club

ksaville@bjs.com
774-512-5597

Briana Keene

Sr. Manager, External Communications

BJ’s Wholesale Club

bkeene@bjs.com
774-512-6802

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AM Best affirms Credit Ratings of NongHyup Property and Casualty Insurance Company Limited

HONG KONG — (BUSINESS WIRE) — AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” (Excellent) of NongHyup Property and Casualty Insurance Company Limited (NH P&C) (South Korea). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

 

The ratings reflect NH P&C’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management. The ratings also reflect the implicit and explicit support the company receives from its ultimate parent, National Agricultural Cooperative Federation (NACF).

 

NH P&C’s risk-adjusted capitalisation is assessed at the strongest level, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR). The company’s solid expansion of retained earnings in recent periods, backed by its no-dividend policy and improved earnings, provided a partial buffer against the negative capital pressure (under IFRS 4) due to the valuation loss on available-for-sale bonds from rapid interest rate hikes in 2022. NH P&C’s financial flexibility is supported by its good accessibility to the capital market underpinned by its previous issuances of subordinated bonds and additional financial support from its immediate parent, NongHyup Financial Group Inc. (NHFG). The company has a conservative investment portfolio consisting mainly of fixed-income assets, with increased focus on asset-liability management to enhance its capital management.

 

AM Best assesses NH P&C’s operating performance as adequate, with a weighted five-year average operating ratio of 96.4% (2018-2022) and a return-on-equity ratio of 6.3%. The year-over-year increase in the company’s net income in 2022 was mainly driven by improved investment returns, supported by stable interest income from its bond portfolio amid the elevated interest rate environment and favourable excess return on alternative investments. Albeit moderately volatile depending on weather events, AM Best expects NH P&C’s prospective underwriting performance to remain supported by growing long-term protection products with favourable margins, coupled with improved profitability of government policy insurance lines.

 

NH P&C is a domestic non-life insurer in South Korea, with a 4.6% market share in terms of gross premiums written in 2022. The company is an exclusive (or major) provider of government policy insurance products for the country’s farmers, such as crop, livestock and agricultural vehicle insurances.

 

In its largest business line of long-term insurance, which NH P&C maintains a modest market share, the company has been gradually expanding protection-type product sales to secure its profitability and aims to diversify into non-cooperative channels, such as general agent and tied-agent channels. However, overall premium growth of the long-term line has remained limited due to strong market competition. Distribution remains highly concentrated in the cooperative channel, which is a network of NACF’s members.

 

As a wholly owned subsidiary of NHFG, which is the financial arm of NACF and one of the largest financial groups in South Korea, NH P&C is strategically important to NACF, given its role as the exclusive provider of government policy insurance products to cooperative members. AM Best also recognises various forms of explicit support, such as capital support from NHFG, as well as direct reinsurance support and full expense reimbursement from the government for its crop insurance line.

 

Negative rating actions could occur if there is a sustained deteriorating trend in NH P&C’s operating performance. Negative rating actions could also arise if the level of support or the company’s strategic importance to NACF is reduced to a degree that no longer supports the current level of enhancement. Positive rating actions could occur if NH P&C’s business profile improves in a sustainable manner, for example, through successful channel diversification that results in a materially enhanced market presence without deterioration in its risk-adjusted capitalisation and operating profitability. Positive rating actions could also occur if the company’s balance sheet strength fundamentals demonstrate sustained improvement.

 

Ratings are communicated to rated entities prior to publication. Unless stated otherwise, the ratings were not amended subsequent to that communication.

 

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.

 

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

 

Copyright © 2023 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Contacts

Seokjae Lee
Financial Analyst
+852 2827 3407
seokjae.lee@ambest.com

Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com

Chanyoung Lee
Director, Analytics
+852 2857 3404
chanyoung.lee@ambest.com

Al Slavin
Senior Public Relations Specialist
+1 908 882 2318
al.slavin@ambest.com

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Zycus’ AI Council charts the course of Generative AI in procurement

Merlin Assist – Gen AI chatbot awarded Innovative Solution of the Year by CPO100

 

PRINCETON, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Zycus, a pioneer in Cognitive Procurement Software, proudly announces the continued success of its AI Council, uniting CPOs representing over $0.5 trillion of annual spends, and leading analysts to propel AI advancements in Source-to-Pay (S2P).

 

The recent session focused on Gen-AI use cases.

Innovative Leap with Merlin Assist

At the heart of these advancements is Merlin Assist, an AI-powered chatbot integrated with Microsoft Teams, offering a singular, streamlined interface for procurement activities. Enriched with the capability to utilize any Generative AI LLM, like OpenAI / ChatGPT or Bard AI, Merlin Assist is poised to redefine business engagement within procurement. Incidentally, Merlin Assist – Gen AI chatbot was awarded the most “Innovative Solution of the year” by CPO100 at their 2nd annual conclave held in Dubai.

 

Aatish Dedhia, Founder & CEO of Zycus, emphasizes, “Merlin Assist is more than a technological innovation; it’s a paradigm shift in procurement. Integrating Generative AI into our platform empowers users to navigate procurement processes with unprecedented ease and intelligence. We have always believed AI is the new UI, and Gen-AI truly makes it possible.”

 

Council’s Collaborative Triumphs

The AI Council, comprising prominent leaders Hervé Le Faou (Heineken), Brian Roche (Westfield Insurance), Daniele Landi (Danone), Piotr Teodorczyk (Suntory Holdings), Florence Tinsley-Roy (PwC), Robert Andersen (NewsCorp), Shyamala Chalakudi (Hewlett Packard Enterprise), Chris Sawchuk (The Hackett Group), and Kishore Pejavara (Delta Air Lines), among others, prioritized key Gen-AI use cases for the source-to-pay process. The members voted on the 20+ Gen-AI uses cases demonstrated live by Zycus which were developed over the past 4 months based on specific inputs from AI Council meet held in June 2023.

 

Top voted priorities include:

  • RFP generation,
  • Category strategy development,
  • Contract summary creation, and
  • Supplier discovery.

These use cases address current challenges and pave the way for strategic advancements in procurement.

 

Path to General Availability

While thousands of end users across key Zycus clients across the USA & Europe are currently using the Beta version of Merlin Assist, the Gen-AI powered Merlin Assist is scheduled for general availability by early next year. This early adoption is a testament to the significant impact Merlin Assist is anticipated to have across various industries.

 

About Zycus:

Zycus is the pioneer in Cognitive Procurement software and has been a trusted partner of choice for large global enterprises for two decades. Zycus has been consistently recognized by Gartner, Forrester, and other analysts for its Source-to-Pay integrated suite. Zycus powers its S2P software with the revolutionary Merlin AI Suite. Merlin AI takes over the tactical tasks and empowers procurement and AP officers to focus on strategic projects; offers data-driven actionable insights for quicker and smarter decisions, and its conversational AI offers a B2C type user-experience to the end-users.

Contacts

Arnish Shah

Associate Director – Marketing

Zycus Inc.

arnish.shah@zycus.com