ATLANTA, GA, Dec 3, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - OMP is helping McCormick & Co., the global leader in flavor, with an AI-driven and autonomous operational planning initiative. This partnership enables McCormick to manage both assembly-to-order (ATO) and make-to-stock (MTS) production within the Unison PlanningTM platform.The initiative tackles key challenges, including balancing ATO and MTS production on shared lines, improving inventory projections through quality-based stock releases, and managing capacity amid fluctuating demand. Addressing these challenges requires close collaboration across regions with North American and EMEA teams working in parallel, and seamless integration of SAP with the operational planning functionality within Unison Planning™. The first implementations will roll out in Canada and the United States before expanding to the EMEA and APAC regions.Through its partnership with OMP, McCormick is implementing autonomous, decision-centric planning powered by agentic AI to transform how production and inventory are managed. The solution enables McCormick teams to plan more effectively for both custom and standard products, rapidly adjust to shifts in demand or supply, and make smarter sourcing decisions. The result is a more responsive supply chain that delivers optimized cost and cash by improving alignment between market demand and production timelines, as well as supporting lower cost of goods through waste reduction. These enhancements are also expected to indirectly result in higher service levels and improved top-line growth."We're really excited about this technology as part of our roadmap of digital transformation," says Whitney Shlesinger, VP of Global Planning and Logistics. "We're embracing AI to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and strengthen our supply chain against volatility.""McCormick is showing how autonomous planning, planner empowerment, and leadership alignment can strengthen resilience," said Philip Vervloesem, Chief Commercial & Markets Officer at OMP. "Together, we are embedding AI in a way that supports agility, collaboration, and innovation across their supply chain."DisclaimerSAP and other SAP products and services mentioned herein, as well as their respective logos, are trademarks or registered trademarks of SAP SE in Germany and other countries. Please see https://www.sap.com/copyright for additional trademark information and notices. All other product and service names mentioned are the trademarks of their respective companies.About McCormickMcCormick & Company, Incorporated is a global leader in flavor. With over $6.7 billion in annual sales across 150 countries and territories, we manufacture, market, and distribute herbs, spices, seasonings, condiments and flavors to the entire food and beverage industry including retailers, food manufacturers and foodservice businesses. Our most popular brands with trademark registrations include McCormick, French's, Frank's RedHot, Stubb's, OLD BAY, Lawry's, Zatarain's, Ducros, Vahiné, Cholula, Schwartz, Kamis, DaQiao, Club House, Aeroplane, Gourmet Garden, FONA and Giotti. The breadth and reach of our portfolio uniquely position us to capitalize on the consumer demand for flavor in every sip and bite, through our products and our customers' products. We operate in two segments, Consumer and Flavor Solutions, which complement each other and reinforce our differentiation. The scale, insights, and technology that we leverage from both segments are meaningful in driving sustainable growth.Founded in 1889 and headquartered in Hunt Valley, Maryland USA, McCormick is guided by our principles and committed to our Purpose - To Stand Together for the Future of Flavor. McCormick envisions A World United by Flavor where healthy, sustainable, and delicious go hand in hand.To learn more, visit: www.mccormickcorporation.com or follow McCormick & Company on Instagram and LinkedIn.About OMPOMP helps companies facing complex planning challenges to excel, grow, and thrive by offering the best digitized supply chain planning solution on the market. Hundreds of customers in a wide range of industries benefit from using OMP's unique Unison Planning™.Contact InformationPhilip VervloesemChief Commercial & Markets Officerpvervloesem@omp.com+1-770-956-2723SOURCE: OMP Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
HONG KONG, December 3, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – The 26th Hong Kong Forum, jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide, wrapped up after the successful two-day event attracted more than 320 representatives from Hong Kong business associations worldwide and business leaders from 33 countries and regions.This year’s Hong Kong Forum focused on how enterprises can leverage Hong Kong’s distinctive advantages of enjoying strong support from the Chinese Mainland and being closely connected to the world as an ideal springboard for expanding abroad. Also covered was how Hong Kong attracts talent and infuses innovative thinking across industries, driving transformation while creating more development opportunities. The programme featured keynote speeches, a series of networking activities, and local visits to give participants deeper insights into Hong Kong from multiple perspectives.Helping mainland enterprises “go global” and tap into international marketsIn her welcome remarks, Margaret Wong, Chairperson of the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide, said: “This year’s Hong Kong Forum featured many exciting highlights, allowing associations to share experiences and insights across regions. This gave an opportunity to discuss collaborations between different business associations, Hong Kong business leaders, and cross-association collaborations. This year, we introduced new initiatives featuring local visit tracks and networking sessions specifically designed for young members.”Sophia Chong, Executive Director of the HKTDC, said in her opening remarks that, “Nowadays, more mainland businesses are ready and keen to expand internationally. As a core member of this Task Force (GoGlobal Task Force), with the support of our 13 mainland offices, we will help mainland enterprises connect with service providers in Hong Kong, including financial, legal, IP and accounting professionals, and match them with partners and buyers in target overseas markets.”Outlining the HKTDC’s strategic direction for the coming year, Sophia Chong added, “Going forward at the HKTDC, we are to begin the first of another three-year plan to reinforce Hong Kong’s role as superconnector and super value-adder, linking the Chinese Mainland and the world. This will create opportunities for not only Hong Kong companies, but also Federation members across business, finance, I&T and creative sectors, to name but a few. We will strengthen our city’s foothold in emerging and mature markets. We will collaborate with our partners to do more outreach in your countries and regions.”One of the highlights this year is a newly added session, “Dialogue with the HKTDC Chairman” hosted by Margaret Wong. During the dialogue, Professor Frederick Ma, HKTDC Chairman, said: “Amidst the growing economic and commercial interactions between China and global markets, Hong Kong solidifies its role as a superconnector and super value-adder. Hong Kong offers unique advantages including a stable financial infrastructure, a robust legal system, a diverse talent pool and comprehensive professional services. Collectively, these make Hong Kong an ideal place for any company that wants to do business in the Chinese Mainland or ASEAN.”Professor Frederick Ma mentioned that the HKTDC will enhance its flagship events, including the Asian Financial Forum (AFF) to be held from 26 to 27 January 2026, to enhance the business elements. “A Global Business Summit will be introduced to extend AFF beyond the financial sector with a view to engaging commercial leaders across industries, particularly in high-growth sectors, and create connections between business operations and financial solutions.”Joseph Chan, the Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the Government of Hong Kong SAR, attended the luncheon on the second day of the forum and delivered a remark.Hong Kong as a strategic springboard for global market expansionHong Kong serves as a two-way business platform, both as a super-connector and super value-adder between the Chinese Mainland and international markets, helping mainland enterprises “go global,” and “bringing in” global companies. At the “Hong Kong: The Launchpad for Navigating Global Markets” plenary, Peter Yan, Director-General of the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises of the HKSAR Government, shared the stage with Tony Cheng, Managing Director & General Manager - Hong Kong/Macau of Merck Healthcare; Marco Galimberti, CEO - APAC of Venchi Asia Pacific; and Joanne Hon, Managing Director of Equinix Hong Kong.The discussion covered analysing global business environments and trends exploring how international enterprises can leverage Hong Kong as a strategic springboard for global market expansion. They highlighted Hong Kong’s unique advantages, including its role as a gateway to the Chinese Mainland and Asia, access to a diverse consumer base, a highly internationalised business environment.The thematic session “Creative Minds and Strategic Innovation in Fuelling Hong Kong’s Economic Future” featured Garrick Lau, Head of Sustainability and Shared Value of Nan Fung Group; Simon Loong, Founder and Group CEO of WeLab; Kevin Ng, CEO of InnoBlock Technology; and Audrey Shum, Managing Director of Christie’s Asia Pacific. The discussion explored how creativity and innovation can inject new momentum into Hong Kong’s economic and cultural development, and how imaginative thinking can help address contemporary challenges and seize emerging opportunities.Young entrepreneurs inject fresh momentum into businessThe “From Idea to Impact: Building a Thriving Business in Technology” plenary put the spotlight on a group of business leaders from innovative tech companies who shared insights on identifying market needs, developing sustainable business models, and tackling challenges faced during growth stages. Speakers included Natalie Chow, Co-founder and CEO of KIBO; Jason Li, Co-founder and CTO of Green Vigor; Eugene Siu, CEO and Co-founder of Petalife; and Suen Hau-shing, Co-founder of Onepile.This year’s forum also introduced a new session, “Meet the Mentor”, inviting Andy Ann, the Chairman and CEO of NDN Group to engage with young entrepreneurs to share valuable advice and practical experience on entrepreneurship, and to encourage more of them to join the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide. The event was co-organised with the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce’s Young Executives Club, and it also provided opportunities for young members to connect with local young talent and explore new business opportunities.Global chamber leaders explore Hong Kong’s I&T and Cultural Design ProjectsDuring the forum, arrangements were made by the HKTDC for representatives to visit Hong Kong’s innovation and technology infrastructure and cultural and design projects. Highlights included the Data Technology Hub and Advanced Manufacturing Centre at Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, the Hong Kong Productivity Council, and the M+ Museum.The Hong Kong Forum is the annual flagship event of the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide. Founded in 2000, the Federation today has a network of 49 business associations with membership of approximately 11,000 business executives and professionals from 38 countries and regions.Forum website: https://hkforum.hktdc.com/conference/hkforum/enPhoto download: https://bit.ly/3KcVdLYThe 26th Hong Kong Forum, jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide, successfully concluded after two days at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition CentreThe forum attracted over 320 representatives from Hong Kong business associations worldwide, as well as business leaders and professionals from 33 countries and regionsWelcome remarks by Margaret Wong, Chairperson of the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations WorldwideOpening remarks by Sophia Chong, Executive Director of the HKTDCDuring “Dialogue with the HKTDC Chairman”, Professor Frederick Ma shared that amidst the growing economic and commercial interactions between China and global markets, Hong Kong solidifies its role as a superconnector and super value-adderJoseph Chan, the Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the Government of Hong Kong SAR, attended the luncheon on the second day of the forum and delivered a remarkMedia enquiriesPlease contact the HKTDC’s Communications and Public Affairs Department:Johnny TsuiTel: (852) 2584 4395Email: johnny.cy.tsui@hktdc.orgHKTDC Media Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.comAbout FHKBAWThe Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide is a unique network of 49 Hong Kong Business Associations in 38 countries and regions with about 11,000 individual associates. These Hong Kong Business Associations were started by overseas traders, buyers and professionals, who have strong business links to Hong Kong in their respective countries, for the purpose of networking and exchanging of business information and ideas. Each of these Associations has their own individual members who are top business people and SMEs in their home country. They are Hong Kong's closest allies and partners in the world market. With the help of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), these Associations formed the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide in November 2000. The Federation aims to achieve synergy among the global network of Hong Kong Business Associations. It provides an effective base for member associations to network and exchange information, thereby, generating business opportunities.Website: https://www.hkfederation.org.hk/aboutAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com
(SeaPRwire) - 俄罗斯总统弗拉基米尔·普京、美国特使史蒂夫·维特科夫和唐纳德·特朗普总统的女婿贾里德·库什纳之间长达五小时的马拉松式会议，未能为结束俄罗斯在乌克兰的战争取得任何重大突破。维特科夫周二抵达莫斯科，与克里姆林宫领导人进行会谈。此前，他周日与乌克兰代表团主要成员就一份修订后的和平计划举行了会议。普京的外交政策助手尤里·乌沙科夫，以及俄罗斯直接投资基金（Russian Direct Investment Fund）首席执行官基里尔·德米特里耶夫也出席了维特科夫-库什纳会议。会后乌沙科夫告诉记者，根据克里姆林宫发布的一份声明，会谈“极其有益、富有建设性和实质性”。乌沙科夫说：“我们特别讨论了领土问题，在我们看来，没有这个问题，危机就无法解决。当然，我们也谈到了我们两国未来经济互动的广阔前景。”他补充说，俄罗斯方面在会议期间收到了美方的四份文件，其中一份包含27个要点，但他拒绝透露其具体内容。最初泄露的28点计划被欧洲领导人批评为对莫斯科过于有利，随后被缩减。乌沙科夫表示，领土问题是讨论的关键部分，但他称尚未找到任何妥协方案。这位俄罗斯高级外交官说：“然而，一些美国提议或多或少可以接受。尽管如此，它们仍需要进一步讨论。我们收到的一些措辞不适合我们。换句话说，这项工作将继续下去。”谈判的一个关键症结是俄罗斯总统普京，他希望乌克兰放弃整个顿巴斯地区，包括其军队目前不控制的部分。 非党派公共政策研究组织 Institute for the Study of War 报告称，俄罗斯军队在苏梅州以及科斯蒂安丁尼夫卡、波克罗夫斯克和胡利亚伊波尔附近取得了进展。Ukraine’s Joint Forces Task Force 在 Telegram 上报告称，其部队已收复库皮扬斯克市大部分地区，尽管俄罗斯军队在北部地区仍维持着孤立的小股部队。乌克兰总统弗拉基米尔·泽连斯基表示，国家安全与国防委员会秘书鲁斯捷姆·乌梅罗夫正在准备在布鲁塞尔与欧洲各国领导人的国家安全顾问举行会议，向同事们通报维特科夫-库什纳与普京会晤的情况。泽连斯基说：“布鲁塞尔会议结束后，鲁斯捷姆·乌梅罗夫和安德里·赫纳托夫将开始准备在美国与特朗普总统的特使举行会晤。”“一如既往，乌克兰将建设性地努力追求真正的和平。我期待在今天欧洲会议结束后收到一份新的报告。”本文由第三方内容提供商提供。SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/)对此不作任何保证或陈述。
分类: 头条新闻,日常新闻
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- Renowned design master Alan Chan and emerging artist Chilai Howard present BOTTEGA HONG KONG and TINY STUDIO respectively, spotlighting inspirational dialogue between Hong Kong and Italian creatives- French design authority Maison&Objet returns with an upgraded presence under the new banner Maison&Objet Intérieurs Hong Kong 2025, featuring two signature pavilions: Design Factory and Design Showcase, and business lounge Le Club- Designers and exhibitors from places including the Chinese Mainland, Belgium, Czechia, France, Italy, Macao and Taiwan, appear alongside local showcases by the Hong Kong Design Centre, Hong Kong Design Institute and others, demonstrating the convergence of creativity and culture- 13 InnoTalks sessions and 20 creative workshops will be held during the fair, covering sustainable design, retro aesthetics and craftsmanship, fostering professional exchange and building public engagementHONG KONG, December 3, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – Sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and co-organised by the Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC), DesignInspire 2025 opens today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and runs until 6 December. From tomorrow until Saturday, the exhibition will welcome industry professionals and the public with free admission. The event brings together over 260 exhibitors from 14 countries and regions, providing an opportunity for design enthusiasts, buyers and members of the public to explore how design connects culture, industry and everyday life through exhibitions, dialogues and workshops.A global platform weaving creativity and commerceThe HKTDC’s commitment to promoting the development of Hong Kong’s cultural and creative industries continues, cementing the city’s role as an east-meets-west centre for international cultural exchange. Since 2017, DesignInspire has provided a platform for designers, brands and creative institutions to connect with potential buyers from around the world, unlocking design-led business opportunities. Sophia Chong, Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: “This year’s DesignInspire unites global creative and business talents, presenting major international collaborations that underscore the event’s mission as a world-class design platform. Artistic exchange is not only where ideas and inspiration are born – it also provides the opportunity to build new partnerships. With its unique position as a global business hub, Hong Kong is ideally placed to foster international exchanges and collaboration.”A key highlight of this year’s DesignInspire is the triumphant return of French lifestyle and design authority Maison&Objet* which presents the upgraded Maison&Objet Intérieurs Hong Kong 2025*, bringing together 16 internationally renowned designers and artisans and more than 200 brands. Centred on the concept of “Crossroads,” the curation presents a cross-cultural design language spanning dialogue, sustainable innovation and avant-garde craft. Design Factory, curated by four international curators, features over 200 pieces that envision future living through materials, crafts and narrative, including works by French trend hunter Elizabeth Leriche and the co-founders of COLLECTIBLE, Clélie Debehault and Liv Vaisberg. Meanwhile, Design Showcase connects seven design capitals – Dubai, Hong Kong, Milan, New Delhi, Paris, Seoul and Shanghai – each interpreting diverse lifestyles and spatial imaginations through a distinctive urban context. Italian brand Moroso presents special showcase, Resonant Landscapes, a public art installation curated by Creative Director Patrizia Moroso that fuses sculptural form and sensory experience to create a poetic encounter between art and design.Philippe Delhomme, Executive Board Chairman of Maison&Objet, said: “Thanks CCIDA and DesignInspire for the continuous support. After our first showcase in Hong Kong last year, we received positive feedback and attention. This year’s upgraded Maison&Objet Intérieurs Hong Kong 2025 nearly doubles in scale. We will showcase the future of interior design and we look forward to gathering with global industry peers and potential buyers to explore deeper collaborations.”In its mission to connect global creativity and foster cross-industry collaboration, DesignInspire 2025 features international pavilions from places including the Chinese Mainland, Belgium, Czechia, France, India, Indonesia, Italy, South Korea, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates, presenting a diversity of design viewpoints and cultural dialogues. The Czech Pavilion gathers Prague-based brands Artisème, Braasi Industry and Pigmentarium, showcasing Bohemian crystal and porcelain craftsmanship, handcrafted urban backpacks and artistic fragrances, and fusing centuries-old crafts with contemporary sensibilities through light, texture and scent. In addition, this year’s event features several first-time exhibitors, including the Hefei Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, Ikatan Arsitek Indonesia and the Macao Product Design Association, to showcase creative works that highlight local characteristics.Beyond international showcases, a renowned designer and an emerging artist anchor the show’s cross-cultural narrative. BOTTEGA HONG KONG, with Alan Chan as Creative Director, along with UNVEIL LIMITED and Su Chang Design Research Office, reimagines everyday aesthetics through an “open carton” inspired by Italy’s alimentari and Hong Kong’s “si dor” neighbourhood stores. The pavilion showcases Hong Kong and Italian talent, including anothermountainman; Didi Ng, the first Hong Kong finalist of the LOEWE Foundation Craft Prize; Italian fashion brand FERRAGAMO; Italian furniture design powerhouse Moroso; glass artist Lucia Massari, known for pieces created for Dolce & Gabbana Casa; Alessandro Stabile Design Studio, one of Italy’s top emerging designers; and David Leung, photographer and artist. Together they are throwing the spotlight on Hong Kong-Italy design sensibilities and cultural narratives.Curated by rising artist Chilai Howard, TINY STUDIO takes inspiration from Hong Kong’s street stall culture to shape 12 studio pavilions with unique designs, bringing fashion designer Angus Tsui, renowned illustrator Pen So, local fragrance brand BeCandle, acclaimed music producer Edward Chan, and Kelly Cheuk and Kwokin from the music video and visual production studio (Re). The set-up hosts creators from both Hong Kong and Italy working across the fields of digital art, sound, scent, sculpture and hands-on workshops, inviting visitors into immersive interactions that capture the creative energy between the two places.This year, DesignInspire has partnered with Tatler to present “The A.I. Atelier”, an experience zone that blends design and technology. Supported by Gen.T and powered by Preface—a tech-enabling company founded by Tommy Lo, an outstanding young honouree from the Tatler Generation Tomorrow Community—this zone explores creativity through artificial intelligence (AI). It analyses visitors’ unique design spirit and styles, generating personalised visual creations on the spot. This gives audiences a first-hand experience of how AI is radically reshaping design language and forging a new era of intelligent synergy between design and technology.Local exhibitors also unveil new designs, including GERI, an intelligent textile technology company, which collaborates with graphic design master Kan Tai-keung to leverage DesignInspire debuting a new series of smart handbags as a seamless fusion of innovation and craftsmanship.Global creativity converges to expand collaborative horizonsTo connect local and international cultural and creative design communities, foster collaboration, and pave the way for future industry development, DesignInspire is hosting an exclusive VIP preview today. The event brings together leading creative and cultural organisations from Hong Kong and overseas, major institutions across various sectors, international enterprises and design service users and buyers. The fair aims to catalyse new business partnerships through face-to-face networking.This year’s participating companies span department stores, retail and residential development, hospitality and lifestyle brands, interior design practices and food and beverage groups, including Yves Saint Laurent Beauty from France, L'Oreal Luxe, Thai retail leaders The Mall Group and Central Retail, India’s Indian Institute of Interior Designers (IIID) and Bombay Shirt Company. Also in attendance are design and brand-strategy firms from Singapore and Europe such as Cameron Woo Design, First Sight International and Saguez & Partners. From the Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong and Taiwan, buyers include Eslite Spectrum Corporation, CHECK Hospitality Management, Haiguihai Group and Xiaochuniang Fast Food Co., Ltd., all of which are looking to leverage DesignInspire as a platform to explore cross-border collaboration opportunities that reflect the continued growth of cross-disciplinary design in the Asian market.InnoTalks explores diverse themes leading a new wave of design ideasTo foster professional dialogue and knowledge sharing, the InnoTalks series returns with 13 sessions this year, convening creators and experts to discuss sensory experiences and business models. Highlights include “Time Warp – When Nostalgia Meets the Future”, where local studios Nopaperstudio and Hoopla unpack how retro elements and craft vocabularies evolve into contemporary visual languages, and why the trend for nostalgia resonates in a fast-paced digital era.Another session, “Future development potential of Art Toy IP”, sees international designer Winson Ma analyse industry trends and explore how designer toys forge unique value chains across art, collecting and commerce, covering licensing, production and promotion models that turn creative characters into marketable cultural icons.Other InnoTalks sessions span topics including multisensory design, sustainable interiors and more, running alongside the Maison&Objet Exhibitors’ Forum and the Federation of Hong Kong Industries D Mark Presentation. A series of creative workshops will be open to the public, where participants can experience hands-on art creation, from cyanotype printing, light sculpture and stone painting to miniature art, paper craft and candle-making. Many of the workshops draw inspiration from Hong Kong motifs, integrating local elements into creative experiences.Harnessing the power of design and art to foster community inclusionDesignInspire is also collaborating with St. James’ Creation under St. James’ Settlement to promote artistic development for people in rehabilitation, introducing “MusicCLAY – Noided Music Making Experience Workshop” – a hands-on experience combining clay art with electronic noise music. In addition, the Hong Kong YMCA’s the DOOOR arts space joins the exhibition to integrate art into the community.Running concurrently with DesignInspire are three important HKTDC-led events – Business of IP Asia Forum, Entrepreneur Day and Start-up Express: International Edition 2025 – taking place from 4 to 5 December at the HKCEC, helping to create further synergies and business opportunities. One-on-one business matching will also be available to connect participants with design service firms and innovation companies worldwide.* Sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA)Photo download: https://bit.ly/4iv3RSsSponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), organised by the HKTDC and co-organised by the Hong Kong Design Centre, DesignInspire runs from 3 to 6 December at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, with free admission for industry professionals and the public from tomorrowA major annual design event, DesignInspire brings together over 260 exhibitors from 14 countries and regions in 2025A key highlight is the triumphant return of French lifestyle and design authority Maison&Objet with the upgraded Maison&Objet Intérieurs Hong Kong 2025, bringing together 16 internationally renowned artisansBOTTEGA HONG KONG, designed by international design master Alan Chan along with UNVEIL LIMITED and Su Chang Design Research Office, draws inspiration from Italy’s alimentari (boutique grocery stores) and Hong Kong’s local “si dor” corner shop culture Curated by rising artist Chilai Howard, TINY STUDIO takes inspiration from Hong Kong’s street stall culture to shape 12 studio pavilions with unique designMultiple photo spots across the venue offer visitors distinctive immersive and multi-sensory experiencesDesignInspire detailsDate: 4 to 6 December, 2025 (Thursday to Saturday)Time: 4 and 5 December 9:30am-7:30pm6 December 9:30am-7pmVenue: Hall 3DE, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition CentreFee: Free admission with registrationEvent website:https://designinspire.hktdc.comMedia enquiriesFor enquiries, please contact:Raconteur PR:Betsy TseTel: (852) 9742 7338Email: betsytse@raconteur.hkClementine CheungTel: (852) 9248 0876Email: clementinecheung@raconteur.hkHKTDC Communication and Public Affairs Department:Katy WongTel: (852) 2584 4524Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.orgStanley SoTel: (852) 2584 4395Email: stanley.hp.so@hktdc.orgHKTDC Newsroom: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/enAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. About Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA)The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) established in June 2024, formerly known as Create Hong Kong (CreateHK), is a dedicated office set up by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR Government) under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau to provide one-stop services and support to the cultural and creative industries with a mission to foster a conducive environment in Hong Kong to facilitate the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries. Its strategic foci are nurturing talent and facilitating start-ups, exploring markets, promoting cross-sectoral and cross-genre collaboration, promoting the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries under the industry-oriented principle, and promoting Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and fostering a creative atmosphere in the community to implement Hong Kong’s positioning as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange under the National 14th Five-Year Plan.CCIDA’s website: www.ccidahk.gov.hk.About Business of Design WeekBusiness of Design Week (BODW), Asia’s premier annual event on design, innovation and brands since 2002, is organised by Hong Kong Design Centre and gathers some of the world’s foremost design masters, brand leaders and entrepreneurs from Hong Kong as well as overseas, driving discourse on the value of design and innovation to inspire global audiences and explore new business opportunities.Disclaimer: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee. Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
Former Apple and Samsung SDI Battery Expert to Guide High-Purity Anode Materials and Dual-Use Next-Generation Cell Platforms.Ottawa, Ontario--(ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com - December 3, 2025) - Focus Graphite Inc. (TSXV: FMS) (OTCQB: FCSMF) (FSE: FKC0) ("Focus" or the "Company"), a leading developer of high-grade flake graphite deposits and innovator of next-generation lithium-ion battery technology, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Sunho Kang, Ph.D., as Strategic Advisor, Battery Technology & Materials.This appointment follows the Company's November 3, 2025 announcement of a conditional $14.1 million in funding from Natural Resources Canada ("NRCan") under the Global Partnership Initiative (GPI), which supports the development of Canada's first chemical-free electro-thermal graphite purification demonstration plant. Dr. Kang's expertise directly aligns with the Company's plan to commercialize high-purity, battery-grade materials from its Lac Knife and Lac Tetepisca deposits.Dr. Kang is a globally respected battery-materials scientist and industry executive with 26 years of experience across leading research institutions, national laboratories, and global battery and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers. His expertise includes lithium-ion cell engineering, silicon-anode development, cathode innovation, dry-electrode manufacturing, and root-cause failure analysis.A former member of Professor John B. Goodenough's laboratory at the University of Texas at Austin and a former Staff Scientist at Argonne National Laboratory, Dr. Kang has held senior executive positions at leading global companies including Samsung SDI (Vice President Research and Product Development), Apple (Senior Manager), and Volkswagen Group of America (Senior Vice President, Battery Technology).In his role at Focus, Dr. Kang will provide expert guidance across lithium-ion battery technologies, including material selection, cell design, and performance optimization as the Company advances its purification and anode-materials strategy. He will advise on the development and testing of battery-grade graphite and silicon composites, contribute to high-energy-density cell research and development for dual-use (defense and civilian) battery-anode applications, and provide direction on establishing and scaling battery-testing infrastructure, including next-generation cell formats. Dr. Kang will also help identify strategic collaborations with industry, academia, and national laboratories; contribute to the Company's intellectual property (IP) and patent roadmap; drive supplier-ecosystem development and technical due diligence for funding and partnership initiatives; and support the advancement of potential off-take and commercialization pathways."At Focus, we are committed to bringing in industry leaders who have delivered at the highest levels," said Jason Latkowcer, Vice President of Corporate Development. "Dr. Kang's appointment significantly strengthens our downstream integration strategy and adds deep technical credibility to our purification and battery-materials programs. His experience with cell qualification, supplier ecosystems, and next-generation battery materials enhances our ability to engage with OEMs and defense partners, while helping ensure our battery-testing efforts are efficient, coordinated, and technically rigorous.""Focus Graphite's deposits and chemical-free purification process have strong potential for next-generation anode materials," said Dr. Kang. "I look forward to helping bridge upstream graphite production with downstream cell-maker specifications and supporting the Company's patent-pending battery technologies. Strengthening a secure North American graphite supply chain is essential for advanced energy storage, particularly in defense and automotive applications, and I am pleased to contribute to Focus Graphite's commercialization strategy in these critical markets."As part of his engagement, Dr. Kang has been granted 50,000 stock options, exercisable at C$0.60 per share for five (5) years under the Company's incentive stock option plan, subject to regulatory approval, and may also receive cash compensation for certain advisory services.About Focus Graphite Advanced Materials Inc. Focus Graphite Advanced Materials is redefining the future of critical minerals with two 100% owned world-class graphite projects and cutting-edge battery technology. Our flagship Lac Knife project stands as one of the most advanced high-purity graphite deposits in North America, with a fully completed feasibility study. Lac Knife is set to become a key supplier for the battery, defence, and advanced materials industries.Our Lac Tetepisca project further strengthens our portfolio, with the potential to be one of the largest and highest-purity and grade graphite deposits in North America. At Focus, we go beyond mining — we are pioneering environmentally sustainable processing solutions and innovative battery technologies, including our patent-pending silicon-enhanced spheroidized graphite, designed to enhance battery performance and efficiency.Our commitment to innovation ensures a chemical-free, eco-friendly supply chain from mine to market. Collaboration is at the core of our vision. We actively partner with industry leaders, research institutions, and government agencies to accelerate the commercialization of next-generation graphite materials. As a North American company, we are dedicated to securing a resilient, locally sourced supply of critical minerals — reducing dependence on foreign-controlled markets and driving the transition to a sustainable future.For more information on Focus Graphite Inc. please visit http://www.focusgraphite.com.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/focus-graphite/ X: https://x.com/focusgraphiteInvestors Contact: Dean Hanisch CEO, Focus Graphite Inc. dhanisch@focusgraphite.com +1 (613) 612-6060Jason LatkowcerVP Corporate Developmentjlatkowcer@focusgraphite.comCautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsCertain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could," "intend," "expect," "believe," "will," "projected," "estimated," and similar expressions, as well as statements relating to matters that are not historical facts, are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current beliefs or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events.In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information regarding, among other things, the anticipated benefits and outcomes of the Global Partnerships Initiative ("GPI") funding award from Natural Resources Canada ("NRCan"); the design, construction, and commissioning of the Company's proposed electro-thermal graphite purification demonstration plant; the expected contributions of Dr. Sunho Kang in his role as Strategic Advisor; and the advancement of the Company's Lac Knife and Lac Tetepisca projects through permitting, pilot testing, and potential future production. Forward-looking information also includes statements concerning the Company's expectations with respect to its ability to commercialize high-purity anode materials, integrate upstream and downstream operations, establish technical and offtake partnerships, and position both projects as strategic contributors to Quebec's and North America's critical-minerals and battery-materials supply chains.Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks related to market conditions, regulatory approvals, changes in economic conditions, the ability to raise sufficient funds on acceptable terms or at all, operational risks associated with mineral exploration and development, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's public disclosure documents available under its profile on SEDAR+.The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof, and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties, and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/276767 Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
