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EVASIVE MOTORSPORTS / ENEOS OIL HONDA S2000RS HEADED TO 2023 PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB

ENEOS USA

Always excited to test its products at the highest level, ENEOS Motor Oil will again join brand ambassadors Dai Yoshihara and Evasive Motorsports at the annual Race To The Clouds. The legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC) takes the team to the 14,115ft summit, tackling 156 challenging turns over the 12.42-mile course. Previous attempts saw the team claim the 2020 Unlimited Class win with its 900hp ENEOS Racing / Evasive Motorsports Toyota 86. It then set the fastest time for an EV in 2022 with the Turn 14 Distribution / Yokohama Tire / ENEOS / Evasive Motorsports Tesla Model 3 Pikes Peak. Constantly seeking new challenges, the team is returning to Colorado this year with the Evasive Motorsports / ENEOS Oil Honda S2000RS. It’s the racing sibling of the team’s recently announced Honda S2000R resto-mod and is based on a 2004 S2000. It was selected because the company has extensive experience racing and tuning the sports car, becoming very familiar with its attributes and strengths. As part of the team's development program, the S2000RS was campaigned in Time Attack races during the 2022 season, where it showed impressive potential. Among its key attributes are nimble handling, thanks to the combination of a lightweight chassis, premium suspension components and high-speed downforce. The Honda also has a healthy power to weight ratio, thanks to its heavily modified Honda F20 four-cylinder motor developing 650hp in a vehicle weighing 2400 lb. POWER To catapult the Evasive Motorsports / ENEOS Oil Honda S2000RS up Pikes Peak, the F20 engine capacity has been increased from 2.0 to 2.4 liters with a 12.5:1 high-compression Toda Racing bore and stroke kit utilizing 87.5mm pistons, I-beam chrome moly fully floating connecting rods, and a 99mm dynamically balanced crankshaft. To help the enlarged engine breathe at altitude, it has a big-valve Toda cylinder head with sports camshafts, Bosch throttle body and RZCrew billet intake manifold ingesting pressurized air from the HKS GT6290 ball-bearing turbocharger. Just like all its previous Pikes Peak attempts, Evasive Motorsports is again using ENEOS Racing 0W-50 synthetic lubricants, which provide superior performance at higher temperatures while protecting critical engine components. And although the previous Tesla Model 3 racer didn’t require engine oil, the car did help to develop the new line of advanced ENEOS EV Fluids that contributed to lower friction and superior cooling. With the engine developing 650hp, the team wanted to evolve the two-seat sports car’s handling by widening the track and improving the aerodynamic downforce. These goals were achieved with a Voltex Circuit Version 3 aero body kit from Japan, which was supplemented by a high-downforce front splitter and rear wing. A carbon fiber Mugen hardtop was also installed to smooth the airflow over the cockpit. In addition to the aero properties, the body modifications improved engine cooling and allowed the team to widen the Honda’s footprint, squeezing 280/650 R18 Yokohama A005 racing slicks under the wider fenders on 18x11” Titan 7 T-P5 forged racing wheels. The team also spent months dialing-in the handling with KW suspension, StopTech brakes and a new Bosch ABS system. A major addition for 2023 is the OS Giken OS-7 sequential transmission with Hollinger pneumatic shifter kit. It provides paddle shifts, allowing Dai to keep his hands on the wheel in the 156 turns. An IP 8.8 differential kit with OS Giken limited-slip internals helps to maximize cornering traction. “We’re extremely optimistic about our chances this year,” said Mike Chang, CEO at Evasive Motorsports. “With years of experience working on the S2000 chassis and the intensive development we put into both our S2000R project and now the S2000RS for Pikes Peak, we’ve set our sights on the Open Class. We’d love to be the first Japanese tuner car to finish under 10min because it’s never been done before. Of course, there are so many things that can go wrong under the pressure of competition, but we feel the 2023 race presents another opportunity to bring home the silverware!” DAI YOSHIHARA Best known for his highly successful Formula DRIFT career, during which he claimed the 2011 PRO Championship title, the Japanese driver is remarkably adaptable behind the wheel. Currently participating in the TC America racing series in a Honda Civic Type R, Dai also has extensive experience in Time Attack, GT racing, driver training and more. The 101st running of the PPIHC will mark Dai’s fifth Race To The Clouds. His first was in 2019 at the wheel of the ENEOS Racing / Evasive Motorsports Toyota 86. A differential problem ended his aspirations, but he returned to claim the Unlimited Class win the following year. In 2021, the team switched to the Turn 14 Distribution / Yokohama Tire / ENEOS / Evasive Motorsports Tesla Model 3 Pikes Peak. The electric power delivery and handling balance demanded a new driving style, and while electrical gremlins scuppered his 2021 ambitions, the team’s efforts were rewarded last year with the fastest climb set by an EV, helped by a wet track. “We’ve had mixed fortunes at Pikes Peak but I feel we have a real chance for a good result this year,” Dai told us. “We’re competing against a lot of fast cars in the Open Class with a 2004 Honda four-cylinder, but I feel really comfortable in the Evasive Motorsports / ENEOS Oil Honda S2000RS. It’s faster than our previous cars and the handling is excellent. The stock S2000 is one of the best handling Japanese sports cars and Evasive has enhanced it with top components, so we’re hoping for a sub-10min time this year – ideally close to 9:50. However, you never know what the weather will do, so it's always a lottery. We’re taking Yokohama slicks and rain tires to ensure we’re prepared, as long as it doesn’t snow!” The 101st running of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb takes place on June 25. The Evasive Motorsports / ENEOS Oil Honda S2000RS will also participate in the Pikes Peak Fan Fest, which takes place in downtown Colorado Springs on June 23 from 5-9PM. The team will be meeting fans and handing out swag. SPECIFICATIONS EVASIVE MOTORSPORTS / ENEOS OIL HONDA S2000RS Engine: F20 four-cylinder, bored and stroked to 2.4-liters with 12.5:1 high-compression Toda Racing bore and stroke kit utilizing 87.5mm pistons, I-beam chrome moly, fully floating connecting rods and bearings, 99mm dynamically balanced crankshaft, big-valve Toda cylinder head with uprated springs, Beryllium seats and Toda camshafts, HKS GT6290 ball-bearing turbocharger, MoTeC M150 engine management, Origin Fab exhaust manifold, EVS Tuning side-exit exhaust, Bosch throttle body, RZCrew billet intake manifold, ENEOS Racing 0W-50 high-performance synthetic motor oil Transmission: OS Giken OS-7 sequential unit, Hollinger pneumatic shifter kit, IP 8.8 differential kit with OS Giken limited-slip diff internals Chassis: KW three-way dampers, Wisefab spherical arms, subframe reinforcement, AST air jack system Brakes: StopTech six-piston front calipers and 14” rotors, four-piston rear calipers and 12.9” rotors, CSG brake pads, Bosch Motorsports ABS Wheels & Tires: 18x11” Titan 7 T-P5 forged racing wheels, 280/650 R18 Yokohama A005 racing slicks Exterior: Voltex Circuit Version 3 aero body kit with high-downforce front splitter and rear wing, Mugen carbon fiber hardtop Interior: MoTeC C127 dashboard display and Power Distribution Module, Bride seats, Sparco harnesses EDITOR’S NOTE High-resolution images of the Evasive Motorsports / ENEOS Oil Honda S2000RS are available here for editorial use: dropbox.com/sh/3cr2984oqdud16k/AADrgq2qfqpxaTe21dfmIF0-a?dl=0 ABOUT EVASIVE MOTORSPORTS Established in 2002 and based in Southern California, Evasive Motorsports has been dedicated to the best quality performance parts at very competitive prices. With years of experience in the aftermarket automotive industry, our staff is knowledgeable about the products we sell. We also aim to provide the best customer service possible. Evasive focuses on vehicle balance, not solely on horsepower, as reflected by the wide variety of brands and specific areas of functionality offered on the website. Evasive Motorsports also offers race preparation, wheel alignment, corner balancing, suspension installation and tuning, and general maintenance. The company has track-tested an extensive range of parts, so don’t hesitate to call if you’re looking for recommendations. For more information visit evasivemotorsports.com ABOUT ENEOS MOTOR OIL Established in 1888 and headquartered in Tokyo, ENEOS is Japan’s largest oil company, with manufacturing and sales facilities throughout the world. With a unique position in its home market, ENEOS has worked with Asia’s automakers and leading race teams for decades, creating advanced lubricants with their vehicle engineers to provide optimum fuel economy with maximum power and long-term protection. ENEOS also recently announced a new line of products for future electric vehicle applications, helping to ensure the newest EV technology is operating as efficiently as possible. For more information, please visit eneos.us Contact Details The ID Agency Greg Emmerson greg@theidagency.com Company Website https://www.eneos.us

June 20, 2023 08:25 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Quadrise signs first licence and supply agreement for potential energy "gamechanger"

Quadrise PLC

Quadrise PLC (AIM:QED) CEO Jason Miles speaks to Thomas Warner from Proactive after announcing the signing of a site licence and supply agreement with Valkor Technologies LLC to produce and sell its carbon-reducing technology at the latter’s Utah heavy oil asset. Miles explains the significance of the deal, highlighting the access it gives Quadrise to the ultra low sulphur, low carbon oil that he describes as a potential "gamechanger for a range of energy applications." He also provides an update on Quadrise's other current projects. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

June 15, 2023 06:53 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Kaya Founders raises US$12 million in first close to support Philippine founders from start-up to scale-up

Kaya Founders

Kaya Founders, a Philippines-based venture capital firm, is today announcing the first close at US$12 million in funding across two new funds to back the next generation of tech-enabled, industry-shaping start-ups across Southeast Asia. The funding round was anchored by the Gokongwei family with participation from institutional investors, family offices, high-net-worth individuals, and prominent entrepreneurs. This brings the total committed capital managed by the firm to $16.5 million. Kaya Founders will be particularly focused on nurturing start-ups in its home country, the Philippines, which has been at the centre of attention for startup investing in the wider region. With a growing internet economy, a young and increasingly affluent population, a talented English-speaking population, the Philippines represents a significant opportunity. Amidst the global slowdown in VC investment activity, Southeast Asia has remained a relatively bright spot. The Philippines, in particular, is shaping up to be one of the region’s rising stars, as an emerging middle class, increasing digitization driven by growing internet penetration and smartphone usage, and new consumer and business behaviours spurred by the pandemic sustain opportunities for value creation. Funding closed by Philippine start-ups exceeded a record US$1 billion for two years in a row between 2021 and 2022, in stark contrast to the drop in funding faced by markets such as the US and Europe last year. Furthermore, in terms of dry powder, at least US$4 billion in capital has been closed by local and regional funds over the past two years. This creates an ideal environment for Kaya as an early-stage investor, providing existing and future portfolio companies with ample opportunities to raise follow-on funding. Founded in 2021 by veteran entrepreneurs and angel investors Paulo Campos (former CEO, ZALORA Philippines), Lisa Gokongwei-Cheng (President, Summit Media; Senior Vice President, JG Summit), and Constantin Robertz (CEO, Locad; former CEO, Entrego ), Kaya Founders has established itself as the leading early-stage investor in the Philippines. To date, it has 31 companies in its portfolio, spanning eCommerce, digital health, fintech, B2B SaaS, agritech, proptech, and more. Some of its most notable portfolio companies include eCommerce enabler, Etaily, salary-on-demand start-up, Advance, and MSME point of sale (POS) app, Peddlr. Managing General Partner Paulo Campos commented: “The burgeoning tech scene in the Philippines is reminiscent of previous growth narratives seen in markets such as India in the 2000s and Indonesia over the past decade. The surge in these countries’ technology sectors were propelled by a confluence of factors, including favourable demographics and supportive government policies, but arguably no other factor played a more pivotal role than the critical mass of tech talent. The same is proving to be true for the Philippines, as new breeds of founders begin to emerge. These founder profiles range from homegrown talent such as corporate executives and second generation tech talent from tech giants such as Grab, Lazada and ZALORA looking to strike it out on their own; as well as adopted Filipinos and Filipino returnees educated or trained abroad looking to make the Philippines their stronghold or make a difference in their motherland, respectively.” Over the past two years, Kaya has primarily made its mark operating in the pre-seed stage, which it will continue to do through the upcoming Zero to One Fund. As its name suggests, this pre-seed vehicle will focus on accelerating ventures as early as Day 0, partnering with founders even before they go to market. Grounded in the belief that there remain a multitude of other problems to be solved even as start-ups abound, and the mission to convince more talented individuals to throw their hats into the entrepreneurial ring, the pre-seed fund will follow a two-pronged investment approach: making high conviction bets in existing teams in search of its first institutional backer as well as generating a pipeline of high quality business ideas and scouting strong founder profiles to partner with to bring them to life. The One to Ten Fund, meanwhile, will invest in more mature opportunities ranging from Seed to Series A that show strong signs of product-market fit and a path to profitability. In addition to scouring for the best deals across the region, the larger fund will also back the top-performing companies from the Kaya Zero to One Fund—what is anticipated to be a robust source of dealflow —equipping them with the firepower to scale to new heights. Kaya Founders anticipates their investments to range from $150k to $500k. While both will remain sector-agnostic, new investment themes, in addition to the aforementioned focus sectors, include D2C eCommerce, B2B marketplaces, future of work, climate tech, and generative AI. “The Zero to One and One to Ten funds are the culmination of what each of us have individually been doing for years as some of the most active angel investors in the Philippines, and collectively over the course of the past year through our first joint investment vehicle. The early moment um we have seen with our first fund is what has given us confidence to take our partnership to the next level,” said Paulo Campos. Indeed, Campos, Gokongwei and Robertz are among the most prolific angels in the country, having been some of the earliest backers in now formidable start-ups like the Good Glamm Group, Kumu, Dali, and Edamama. Central to taking the partnership to the next level is further bolstering the leadership team. The first close announcement coincides with the appointment of Ray Alimurung, former CEO of Lazada Philippines and another notable entrepreneur-turned-angel investor, as General Partner of the Zero to One Fund. After a successful local fundraising campaign, the Kaya team will embark on a global roadshow starting this month. The firm seeks to tap foreign pools of LP capital searching for more enticing investment opportunities in emerging markets. About Kaya Founders Kaya Founders is on a mission to invest in the next generation of companies driving digital transformation in commerce and critical services in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Formed through a partnership between leading entrepreneurs and angel investors Paulo Campos III, Lisa Gokongwei-Cheng, Constantin Robertz, and Ray Alimurung, Kaya Founders is the output of their shared vision for a better Philippines and Southeast Asia—one that harnesses the power of technology to solve the most pressing problems of our time, fosters Filipino ingenuity and talent, and promotes entrepreneurship to spur economic prosperity. Kaya partners with founders from the earliest days, often writing their very first cheque and equipping them with the guidance and support they need to refine their ideas and get them off the ground. It sees its mission as threefold. As investors, Kaya is defining a new category of pre-seed, backing aspiring founders when they have little more than a vision and potential, while supporting them through the scale up phase through follow-on investments. By making the entrepreneurial journey less daunting and boosting the odds for success through the financial and operational support that Kaya offers, it hopes to establish entrepreneurship as a viable career path for the most talented individuals driven to make an impact. Lastly, for later-stage downstream investors, Kaya is an engine for dealflow, supplying them with companies ripe for investment. For further information, please visit: https://kayafounders.com/ Contact Details Kaya Founders Bilal Mahmood +44 7714 007257 b.mahmood@stockwoodstrategy.com Company Website https://www.kayafounders.com/

June 14, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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EU Renewable Ethanol Hits New Record Level for Greenhouse-Gas Reduction as Industry Drives Toward Carbon-Neutrality

ePURE

Renewable ethanol from ePURE members reduced GHG emissions by more than 78% compared to fossil fuel in 2022, according to the latest audited producer data; EU ethanol refineries produced more food and feed than fuel Production and use of renewable ethanol from ePURE members reduced greenhouse-gas emissions by an average of 78.4% compared to fossil fuels in 2022, according to newly certified data. It was the 11th consecutive year in which EU renewable ethanol increased its GHG-reduction score. The record-breaking figure highlights the continuing innovation of the European renewable ethanol industry as biorefineries decrease emissions and improve the already impressive sustainability of EU crop-based and advanced biofuels. The new data comes as policymakers determine what role sustainable biofuels such as renewable ethanol can play in the drive to carbon-neutrality. “Domestic production of EU renewable ethanol has never been more strategically important, contributing to Europe’s food security, energy independence and and transport decarbonisation goals,” said David Carpintero, Director General of ePURE, the European renewable ethanol association. “Every year ePURE members improve their production processes with solutions that aren’t just on the drawing board but already deliver results now – including capture of biogenic CO 2 and increased production of food, feed and fuel,” Carpintero added. “This places Europe’s renewable ethanol industry as a world leader in terms of sustainability.” The record-high GHG-saving performance of ePURE members’ ethanol was also accompanied by significant production of food and feed co-products (5.9 million tonnes of commercial product) and of captured CO2 (1.1 million tonnes) – more ways in which ethanol production contributes to EU food security and offsets fossil fuel use. Once again, ePURE members produced more food and feed co-products than renewable ethanol – more food than fuel. The 2022 findings were compiled from ePURE members and certified by auditing firm Copartner. ePURE’s membership includes 21 producing companies with around 50 refineries across the EU and UK, accounting for about 85% of EU renewable ethanol production. Contact Details ePure Craig Winneker +32 473 90 03 64 winneker@epure.org

June 14, 2023 04:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Foresight Signs MOU with South Korean Tier One Supplier KONEC for Cooperation in ADAS and Autonomous Driving Solutions

Foresight Autonomous Holdings Ltd.

Foresight Autonomous Holdings Ltd. (Nasdaq and TASE: FRSX) (“Foresight” or the “Company”), an innovator in automotive vision systems, announced today its entry into the growing South Korean automotive market by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for cooperation with KONEC Co. Ltd. (“KONEC”), a leading Tier One automotive supplier. The two companies signed the MOU in order to collaborate on developing advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving solutions, expanding KONEC’s product offering to global customers including Hyundai, Tesla and Magna. The collaboration was facilitated by KIM Venturous. Additionally, Foresight showcased its 3D perception solutions at NextRise 2023, Seoul, the largest startup fair in South Korea. Foresight was part of the Israel-South Korea delegation, led by the Israeli Minister of Foreign Affairs and the South Korean Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, respectively. The Company's cutting-edge solutions generated great interest from South Korean companies who were part of the delegation. "I was impressed with Foresight's multi-spectral vision software solutions introduced for autonomous driving and accident prevention technology," said Kwang Pyo Lee, vice president of KONEC. "As the automotive paradigm shifts, mobility is becoming defined by software-driven electronic devices. Cooperation with Foresight represents a collaboration between Korean hardware technology and Israeli software technology, and we are looking forward to creating value for the future of mobility," Mr. Lee concluded. "We are thrilled by the positive response our technology received in South Korea," said Haim Siboni, CEO of Foresight. "Cooperating with KONEC and entering the South Korean automotive market are significant milestones for Foresight, and we look forward to establishing long-lasting partnerships and contributing to the advancement of automotive vision systems in South Korea." About KONEC KONEC is a technology company that manufactures automobile parts for eco-friendly vehicles using a high-pressure die-casting process. KONEC has established a batch production system for lightweight metal raw materials, molds, castings, processing, and assembly through cooperation among its group affiliates. Major customers include Tesla, Hyundai Motor, and Kia. In addition to the existing business scope of lightweight metal body, chassis, and body parts, KONEC is venturing into new industries in line with the electrification of mobility and software advancements. KONEC has entered the field of information processing technology using cameras, such as developing a license plate recognition system through collaboration with companies that have commercialized semiconductor SoCs and modules for IoT wireless communication. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other Federal securities laws. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates" and similar expressions or variations of such words are intended to identify forward-looking statements. For example, Foresight is using forward-looking statements in this press release when it discusses its collaboration with KONEC, including the development of ADAS and autonomous driving solutions, the potential advantages and benefits of its software solutions, creating value for future mobility, and its intention to establish long-lasting partnerships and contribute to the advancement of automotive vision systems in South Korea. Because such statements deal with future events and are based on Foresight’s current expectations, they are subject to various risks and uncertainties, and actual results, performance or achievements of Foresight could differ materially from those described in or implied by the statements in this press release. The forward-looking statements contained or implied in this press release are subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in Foresight's annual report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on March 30, 2023, and in any subsequent filings with the SEC. Except as otherwise required by law, Foresight undertakes no obligation to publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. References and links to websites have been provided as a convenience, and the information contained on such websites is not incorporated by reference into this press release. Foresight is not responsible for the contents of third-party websites. About Foresight Foresight Autonomous Holdings Ltd. (Nasdaq and TASE: FRSX) is a technology company developing smart multi-spectral vision software solutions and cellular-based applications. Through the Company’s wholly owned subsidiaries, Foresight Automotive Ltd., Foresight Changzhou Automotive Ltd. and Eye-Net Mobile Ltd., Foresight develops both “in-line-of-sight” vision systems and “beyond-line-of-sight” accident-prevention solutions. Foresight’s vision solutions include modules of automatic calibration and dense three-dimensional (3D) point cloud that can be applied to different markets such as automotive, defense, autonomous vehicles and heavy industrial equipment. Eye-Net Mobile’s cellular-based solution suite provides real-time pre-collision alerts to enhance road safety and situational awareness for all road users in the urban mobility environment by incorporating cutting-edge AI technology and advanced analytics. For more information about Foresight and its wholly owned subsidiary, Foresight Automotive, visit www.foresightauto.com, follow @ForesightAuto1 on Twitter, or join Foresight Automotive on LinkedIn. Contact Details Investor Relations Contact: Miri Segal-Scharia, CEO, MS-IR LLC +1 917-607-8654 msegal@ms-ir.com Company Website https://www.foresightauto.com/

June 13, 2023 08:10 AM Eastern Daylight Time

INDUSTRY LEADERS JOIN FORCES TO LAUNCH PROFESSIONAL DELIVERY PROVIDERS

Professional Delivery Providers

Professional Delivery Providers (PDP), a platform company stood up by the best-of-the-best in heavy goods, last mile delivery and installation industries, announced today it is now serving customers coast-to-coast. Headquartered in Atlanta, the PDP team is led by Chairman and CEO Karl Meyer, who is renowned for his leadership and success. “With PDP, we’ve brought together some incredible minds who saw an opportunity to elevate the way we handle our customers’ delivery needs and to improve performance results across the board,” Meyer said. “We’re fortunate to bring on some of our legacy clients and know our hard work and determination will set PDP up for rapid domination in the market.” With more than 150 years of experience spanning PDP’s Executive Team, Meyer says they know what works well in the last mile space. Already in operation in more than a dozen markets, PDP offers two-man box truck and flatbed services, with Rapid Response Teams on standby to travel as needed. In the short-term, PDP is focused on customer and revenue diversification as it works to grow its portfolio. A minority equity raise is also underway to help set PDP up for continued success in the long run. “Taking care of our customers is our biggest priority and what sets PDP apart,” Meyer said. “It empowers our employees to do the best job possible, and when that happens everything else falls into place.” To learn more about PDP and how they help organizations handle all shipping and logistics needs to meet business goals, visit: www.1pdp.com. About Professional Delivery Providers Professional Delivery Providers (PDP) is a last-mile logistics company that provides customized solutions based on specific customer challenges. Based in Atlanta, PDP uses the latest technology, analytics and automation tools to make efficient deliveries and keep customers satisfied. To get in touch, visit www.1pdp.com. Contact Details Professional Delivery Providers Meredith Strassle +1 816-835-5578 meredith.strassle@gmail.com

June 13, 2023 07:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Minuteman Press in Nashville, TN Completes Exterior Full-Wrap Rebranding of the Iconic Grand Ole Opry House Music Venue

Minuteman Press International Inc

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Grand Ole Opry House, owned by Ryman Hospitality Partners, is one of the most legendary music venues in the USA. Thanks to Minuteman Press franchise owner John Taylor and his team at Minuteman Press in Nashville, the face of the Grand Ole Opry House now looks as good on the outside as the music sounds on the inside. What started out as a sales call and business cards order ten years ago has evolved into a trusted branding partnership between Minuteman Press in Nashville and Ryman Hospitality, and the result of that partnership includes incredible projects like this one – the full-wrap exterior rebranding of the Grand Ole Opry House. Minuteman Press in Nashville is located at 415 Spence Lane, Nashville, TN 37210. John Taylor has owned the business since January of 2014 and is a member of the President’s Club for top performers across the Minuteman Press franchise system. John shares key details on working to complete this huge project on such an iconic venue. How did the project with the Grand Ole Opry come about? John Taylor: “We acquired them as a client about ten years ago. It originated with a sales call at the original The Ryman Auditorium, in downtown Nashville. The first order was a few sets of business cards. Their parent company is Ryman Hospitality. Working inward through the marketing department at Ryman Hospitality, a relationship developed. They have a lot of printers, but we stayed in touch, cross-selling where possible. Ultimately, we set them up on an online portal ordering system for their printed collateral and admin items for their various brands. We make it a habit to deliver all prospects our "Portfolio Thumb-drive". It is branded Minuteman Press and goes to them pre-loaded with our most impressive projects in categorized folders. That led to us becoming one of their trusted branding partners, I would like to say their preferred branding partner. We've done projects from Nashville to New York City for them as they open new venues.” What specifically did you do for this project? John Taylor: “We have done multiple projects at the Grand Ole Opry House. Regarding this project: It is an extraordinary surface, in that it is stamped concrete. It is made to look like a ‘rough-cut cedar’ wooden surface, with deep woodgrain and over a half-inch depth difference between the faux planks. There are two installation processes in this type of project. One is to install and register the panels together (58" wide panels). The second process is to heat and press the vinyl into the grain and contours with a heat gun/torch and foam hand roller, roughly 4" at a time. We measured, scaled and templated the whole project. We printed the vinyl on an HP 360 Latex printer, then laminated the vinyl on a GBC roll laminator (3M IJ-480 Vinyl with 3M 8520 Matte Overlaminate). We used our 55' boom truck and a rented 45' boom lift to install. The first team and truck would hang and register the vinyl. The second lift would have a heat gun, a torch, and roller to get into the grain, and a single installer with very tired arms. We blocked off an area to work every morning so tours could still safely operate every 30-60 minutes. We installed in close coordination with the security team every day and evening to avoid periodic live shows in the evenings altogether." What was the timetable / what did it take to complete the project? John Taylor: “The exterior, as all large branding projects do, began with an intense set of measurements and a write-up of all inclusions and challenges with the surface(s). We then created an Illustrator template for their art department, advising best practices and highlighting any areas to which they should pay special attention during design. The timetable was roughly 7 weeks, synopsized below: We surveyed the first week and provided them a template for artwork technicals and construction. It took them 2-3 weeks to develop art, get the individual artists' approvals, and the necessary internal management approvals. We removed the old banners and aluminum hardware, as well as prepped/cleaned the building during that period. I asked for 7-10 days to produce the vinyl. It took about a week to print, laminate and cut. We should have been able to install it in roughly one week with a crew of three. It ended up taking two weeks since the Grand Ole Opry has shows every couple of days, which limited our time (we had to be packed up and out of the way by 3 pm). The weather was also a factor." TIME LAPSE VIDEO: Full-wrap rebranding of the face of the Grand Ole Opry House – Spring 2023 – Minuteman Press, Nashville: How happy are you with the completed project? What has been the feedback you’ve received? John Taylor: “I'm extremely happy with it. I really am humbled and honored to be given the opportunity. Now, for the less-than-humble perspective; it was an intense scope of work... and we got the job done! We've had only positive feedback about this installation and people are loving the new face of the Grand Ole Opry House. My favorite reaction was from a security guard that said, ‘I haven't seen this many people stop and have their pictures taken in front of the building in years and years!’. He's been there over 15 years, so that was so gratifying to hear him say that.” John concludes, “To have our hard work appreciated, especially on such a large-scale project, it’s just a great feeling of accomplishment.” For Minuteman Press products and services and to find your local Minuteman Press, visit https://minuteman.com. Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com. Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

June 12, 2023 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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S&U "confident about the future" following 2023 AGM

S & U PLC

Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

June 02, 2023 10:22 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Minuteman Press Franchise in Gastonia, NC Has Grand Opening for New Father-Son Team Tony & David Marder

Minuteman Press International Inc

Tony and David Marder are the new owners of the Minuteman Press franchise in Gastonia, NC. In January of 2023, Tony and David purchased Minuteman Press in Gastonia from retiring owners Pam and Bill Joles, who owned the business for nearly 32 years since July of 1991. On Thursday, May 25, 2023, Tony and David held their official Grand Opening at their shop located at 495 East Long Avenue in Gastonia. The event was sponsored by the Gaston Business Association and had a fiesta theme that included margaritas, festive appetizers, a food truck, and a mariachi band. There were also plenty of raffles as well as a ribbon-cutting ceremony that served as a celebration of Tony and David’s new venture while Pam and Bill were also in attendance to help pass the torch. In the below interview, Tony shares how he and David originally came into contact with Pam and Bill, and how that relationship grew to the point of purchasing the business. Tony also shares how he’s been building his business since the purchase and why print is so vital today. You purchased the business after working in the shop for a couple of years. What were your roles/experiences as employees and what drove you to buy the business? Tony Marder: “Interestingly, even before working in the shop, Pam and Bill Joles were previous coaching clients. We met via our local BNI and Chamber memberships. At the time, I focused my business coaching with family-owned businesses and Pam and Bill engaged me to assist. I noticed how they were avid readers and spent focused time on goal-setting and systemization. Just before and during the pandemic closures, I asked if they needed someone very part time for deliveries or light finishing work to fill some of my open schedule. At some point in early 2021, I asked Bill ‘how he intended to land this thing’ and he said, “Why? You want to buy a business?” My answer was, “Absolutely not!” But an hour later I mentioned that I felt this may be a good fit for me and my son David, whom I know to be very adept and resourceful with machines and computers and technology in general. David joined the team as print production specialist in May of 2021 specifically to learn the finishing work. Having a bit of a graphics background didn’t hurt either and he quickly added pre-print typesetting and other aspects of pre-print work to his overview. Knowing this was a good fit and having almost two years of on-the-Job experience with Pam and Bill made it a much easier decision for us to move forward.” What has the support from Minuteman Press International been like for you? Tony Marder: “Having experience with franchise teams, I expected the support system to be there. I was especially impressed with the FLEX software and the strength of the training and process protocols. The local team made the transition easy and the Home Office training team is concise and thorough. Every call or need is quickly handled and everyone jumps in to help with urgency as needed.” How do you describe your business and capabilities to potential clients? Tony Marder: “We can produce anything that can be printed or find someone in our organization that can; we will produce and deliver quickly high quality work that helps them run or grow their business or organization.” What are the high-demand products and key growth areas? Tony Marder: “Our most requested items are business cards, forms, labels, stickers, letterhead and envelopes, booklets, manuals, newsletters and mailings. We would like to feature more mailings, interior signage, posters, decals and graphic design.” What are some of the key ways you’ve grown your business since taking over in January of 2023? Tony Marder: “Relationship marketing via phone and face to face direct marketing to existing and past clients, as well as SEO/SEM Marketing, active membership in the local chamber and Rotary. Planning now for future postcard mailings featuring postcard mailing as well as special promotions.” How would you best describe your community? Tony Marder: “We have a small but dedicated and loyal community. We are a volunteer and philanthropic community of diverse folks raising families and enjoying our corner of the world. We have a lot of natural resources that draws a wide range of individuals to the area spanning entrepreneurs, professionals, service-related businesses and manufacturers. We enjoy the closeness of the Charlotte, NC Metro area without the cumbersome things that make larger cities less attractive. Around here we say that ‘we don’t tell anybody about it, but if they find it on their own then it’s perfectly okay with us.’” Why do you think printing remains so vital to businesses today? Tony Marder: “Print is everywhere. I can’t go anywhere without seeing print in action. Every business or organization uses print at some level; either to run or grow their business. I feel email and social media marketing has its place but lacks a personal touch or relationship that could be developed. Print solidifies other marketing sources and cements brand recognition. People read, so giving them something to read is the best way to keep them engaged.” What are the biggest rewards of owning your business? Tony Marder: “This is a cashflow business with a lot of upside potential. Cash is certainly king when it comes to owning your business and this one is no different. Personally, I’m in it to help my son secure a future and continue to provide inspiration for the team. I’d like to see us increase what we can give back to our community and find more ways to engage the public.” What advice would you give to other business owners right now? Tony Marder: “Attract and hire people smarter than you, then get out of their way and give them room to shine. Find a mentor who has documented experience with the legal, financial and accounting arenas and do not resist being pushed closer to the fire. Get in there and get it done.” For more information about Minuteman Press in Gastonia, NC, visit https://minuteman.com/us/locations/nc/gastonia/ Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

June 02, 2023 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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