HONG KONG, Aug 31, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Legend Holdings Corporation (stock code: 3396.HK) announced today the unaudited condensed consolidated interim results for the six months ended June 30, 2022 (the "Reporting Period"). During the Reporting Period, the Company's revenue was RMB237,685 million and the net profit attributable to equity holders of the Company amounted to RMB2,131 million.
Mr. Li Peng, Executive Director and CEO of Legend Holdings, said that in the face of the complex international environment, in the first half of 2022, Legend Holdings pursued progress while ensuring stability, and deepened the strategic thinking of "industrial operation, technological innovation", made steady improvement in its corporate competitiveness and operational efficiency, and further strengthened its investment and layout in the field of science and technology innovation; At the same time, we gave full play to the role of "chain leader", practiced the concept of green development, actively fulfilled corporate social responsibility, and devoted ourselves to contribute to the high-quality development of China's economy.
During the Reporting Period, Legend Holdings further consolidated the foundation of its industrial operations and strengthened its operational management. The revenue of the segment increased by 4% year-on-year to RMB235,775 million, and the net profit attributable to the equity holders of Legend Holdings increased by 20% year-on-year to RMB2,830 million.
— Lenovo achieved revenue and profit growth for the ninth consecutive quarter. While maintaining its position as the world's No.1 PC maker, Lenovo accelerated the development of new growth drivers with the revenue share of the non-PC business reaching a new high of 37% in the second quarter
— Levima Group took the lead in achieving import substitution in the field of EVA photovoltaic materials. In the first quarter, the upgrading and transformation of EVA devices realized the expected effect, and the result in the second quarter reached a new high. In addition, the company continued to focus on the field of new materials, advancing the new projects in an orderly manner, and entered the field of electronic specialty gas;
— The core business of Joyvio Group develops well as a whole. Joy Wing Mau continued to improve its vertically integrated fruit supply chain and achieved rapid growth in revenue. Global demand and prices for seafood products continued to rebound, and the revenue and profit of Joyvio Food have been improved;
— With a healthy core capital adequacy ratio and strong international credit ratings, Banque Internationale a Luxembourg S.A. ("BIL") achieved solid growth – successfully navigating the challenges faced by Europe's economy. Meanwhile, BIL obtained QFLP status in Shenzhen, through which it will further support the introduction of foreign capital into China's market and other initiatives.
During the Reporting Period, the industrial incubations and investments segment delivered stable and sound growth despite capital market volatility.
— Legend Capital raised funds of RMB3.5 billion, invested in 26 new projects, and 4 portfolio companies went public;
— Legend Star invested in nearly 20 new projects, more than 40 enterprises under management completed their next funding round, and it exited approximately 10 projects. The first round closing of the firm's fifth USD fund and the final closing of its artificial intelligence special fund were also completed.;
— Fullhan Microelectronics's market share has significantly increased, and its performance has achieved growth. It continued to invest in mid- and high-end surveillance products to enhance profitability, and the expediting growth of smart home & smart automotive products has served as new driving engines;
— Lakala maintained China's No. 2 operator in terms of bank card transaction volume and leading operator in QR code payments. At the same time, it proactively provided technological support for other businesses;
— The production and operation of Eastern Air Logistics have recovered steadily and achieved steady improvement in performance;
— Zhengqi Holdings focused on the field of scientific and technological innovation, carried out industrial exploration and investment layout, and has so far helped 11 of its portfolio companies in total successfully go public;
— JC Finance & Leasing achieved solid performance and year-on-year revenue growth amid the pandemic.
Increasing investment in scientific and technological innovation, adhering to innovation-driven development and continuously supporting the growth of Specialized and Innovative Enterprises
Legend Holdings stays true to its original aspiration of "revitalizing the country through business". It has further increased its investment in technological innovation in line with the national strategy of achieving high-quality development driven by technological innovation and has achieved promising results.
— Steady implementation of the "plan of doubling investments in Research and Development"
In the first half of 2022, Legend Holdings' Family Group's total R&D investment (excluding the capitalized R&D spending) reached RMB7.212 billion, and currently owns over 20,000 granted patents, ranking top among Chinese enterprises in various patent awards. Lenovo remains committed to its plan of doubling investments in R&D; it increased R&D spending by 23% year-on-year and grew R&D headcount by 29% year-on-year. Levima Advanced Materials adhered to its innovation-driven strategy. During the Reporting Period, it completed the laboratory R&D development for 9 new products and processes, the production technology formulas for 15 new products, and the industrialization of 5 new products.
— Continuously "long-sought" in the field of science and technology
In the first half of 2022, Legend Holdings' family group invested in nearly 50 new technology companies, covering multiple fields such as cutting-edge technologies, hard & core technologies, healthcare and medicine, and has contributed to the development of specialized and innovative enterprises in China through its empowerment. During the year as of August 15, 2022, 12 of its portfolio companies have successfully completed IPOs. Close to 50 of Legend Holdings' family group's portfolio companies made the newly announced list of the fourth official list of state-level specialized and innovative enterprises, such as Noitom, Hua Kong Tsingjiao, Spacety, Union Semiconductor, EasyDiagnosis Biomedicine, NuVolta Technologies, etc. Up to now, Legend Holdings' family group has nearly 100 specialized and innovative companies in its portfolio.
Adhering to green growth, playing the full strength as a chain leader, and actively fulfilling corporate social responsibility
Legend Holdings is committed to promoting green development philosophy through the efforts of its portfolio companies to seize the green development opportunities, and jointly build an ecological civilization. Lenovo has set a goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, transforming into "net-zero carbon emission plants" on the basis of its state-level green plants. The Company continues to create and provide smart solutions that facilitate the green transformation, empowering over 300 top industrial enterprises in China. Levima Advanced Materials focused on the development of new energy materials and biodegradable materials on top of its existing EVA photovoltaic film business; BIL helped Chinese companies issue overseas green bonds to facilitate the development of green finance; at the same time, Legend Capital, Legend Star, Zhengqi Holdings, etc. have further expanded investments in related fields to promote innovation and technological progress.
In terms of industrial chain, Legend Holdings promoted its subsidiaries to give full play to their advantages in operations and supply chains and assisted the coordinated development across the industrial chains. Lenovo was named a Gartner Global 25 Supply Chain for the eighth consecutive time. 90% of its manufacturing was from China, with 2,000 level-1 suppliers, directly providing more than 350,000 jobs. Levima Advanced Materials continued to make efforts in the field of new materials, expanding vertically to the upstream of the industrial chain while horizontally expanding to new segments, driving the mutual development with SMEs.
Corporate social responsibility is an important part of Legend Holdings' overall strategy. The Company actively responds to the national call to steadily promote the implementation of the national employment stabilization policy within the family group, and carefully formulated and closely tracked various recruitment plans. While extensively attracting social talents, it focused on the recruitment of fresh graduates from colleges and universities, and actively expanded the scale of recruitment. In terms of public welfare undertakings, Legend Holdings has long focused on key areas such as fostering start-ups, contributing to rural revitalization, promoting social integrity and responding to disasters for years and insists on investing and carrying out relevant work effectively.
Mr. Ning Min, Chairman and Executive Director of Legend Holdings, said that, under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China's Central Committee, China coped well with the changes in the international environment, and achieved economic and social development while effectively coordinating pandemic prevention and control, adhering to the guiding ideology of "people-centered", and achieved a series of results in various tasks, which also created a good environment for the development of enterprises. In the first half of 2022, the Company continued to improve its position, strengthen its capabilities, seize the important opportunities arising from the transformation and upgrading of Chinese enterprises, focus on the real economy, increase efforts in the field of scientific and technological innovation, and earnestly fulfill its corporate social responsibilities. In the future, we will continue to aim at accomplishing the great goal of building a world-class enterprise, and contribute to the journey of achieving high-quality development and common prosperity!
Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com
Tag: Agritech
PLS Plantations PAT up by 109.6%
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 30, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – PLS Plantations Berhad recorded a net profit after tax (PAT) of RM35.0 million, a strong conclusion to the financial year ended 30 June 2022 (FY2022). This represents an increase of 109.6% compared to RM16.7 million in the preceding financial year ended 30 June 2021 (FY2021). Total revenue for FY2022 stood at an all-time high of RM184.1 million, up 36.5% compared to RM134.8 million in FY2021 driven by increased sales and higher average selling prices of fresh fruit bunches (FFB).
Annual PAT was further moderated by several factors, including the recognition of fair value loss in biological assets of RM5.2 million compared to a RM1.4 million gain in the preceding quarter (Q3FY2022), higher tax, administration expenses, and a one-off provision for doubtful debt in the manufacturing and trading segment which the Company incurred in the last quarter of FY2022.
Net profit after tax and minority interest (PATMI) for the year stood at RM27.3 million, up 118.4% from RM12.5 million in the preceding financial year. The positive performance was mainly due to the improved quarter on quarter (QoQ) revenue of RM44.8 million up by 41.8% from RM31.6 million in the corresponding quarter for the period ended 31 June 2021 (Q5FY2021).
For the fourth quarter ended 30 June 2022 (Q4FY2022), PLS Plantations saw a dip in its PBT to RM4.8 million or 12.7% lower compared to RM5.5 million in Q5FY2021. Overall QoQ PAT saw a decrease to RM0.6 million, a decrease of 82.5% compared to RM3.7 million in the corresponding quarter last year. Earnings per share (EPS) currently stands at -0.10 sen (diluted) compared to 0.65 sen last year.
PLS Plantations Group CEO Lee Hun Kheng said, "It has been an eventful year for PLS Plantations. In addition to diversifying the business into different cash crops, we are also building our distribution channels and diversifying into downstream products, specifically into durian consumer products. We are focused on rolling out our Agropreneur Programme and building the Integrated Agrotech Park. Our collaboration with both the Federal and State Government and ecosystem partners will be the backbone of our efforts to play a role in strengthening the local agrofood ecology and network which will contribute to the nation's overall food security. Over the coming months, we will be executing a series of partnerships that will allow PLS to fast track our crop diversification efforts – specifically intercropping and cash crops."
The key initiatives for FY2022 initiated by PLS Plantations as part of its plan to become the nation's leading sustainable agrofood company are:
i. a joint venture with Landasan Erajaya Sdn Bhd ("LESB") on a proposed collaboration to undertake intercropping with cash crops, durian and other forest plantation activities;
ii. signing of Memorandum of Understanding ("MoU") with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries ("MAFI") to conduct an in-depth study and put forward a proposal for the national food security agenda; and
iii. launched the PLS Agropreneur Programme and PLS Integrated Agrotech Park to strengthen the local agrofood ecosystem.
About PLS Plantations Berhad
PLS Plantations was incorporated in Malaysia in 1987 and was listed on the Second Board of Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange in 1995. Currently listed on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad, PLS and its subsidiaries are involved in the management and operation of forest, oil palm and durian plantations, as well as the processing, distribution and sale of durian products.
Forward-Looking Statements
The statement included in this press release, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statement generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "plan," "seek," or "believe." These forward-looking statements, which are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, may include projections of our future financial performance based on our growth strategies and anticipated trends in our business. These statements are only predictions based on our current expectations about future event. There are important factors that could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements to differ materially from the results, level of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statement, including, but not limited to our ability to win additional business. Although we believe the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future result, level of activity, performance, or achievements. You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. These forward-looking statements apply only as of the date of this press release; as such, they should not be unduly relied upon as circumstances change. Except as required by law, we are not obligated, and we undertake no obligation, to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements that might reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release or those that might reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com
Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries to Improve Food Security for Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 8, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries (MAFI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PLS Plantations Berhad, a leading agrofood company in Malaysia, to conduct an in-depth study and put forward a proposal for the national food security programme.
 |
The MoU was officiated by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Yang Amat Berhormat Dato' Sri Ismail Sabri Bin Yaakob at the biennial Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture and Agro Tourism (MAHA) 2022. Also present was the Minister of Agriculture and Food Industries, Yang Berhormat (YB) Datuk Seri Dr. Ronald Kiandee, and PLS Plantations' Group Chairman, Yang Berbahagia (YBhg) Tan Sri Mohammed Nazir Bin Abdul Razak. Also in attendance to sign the MoU were YBhg Dato' Haslina Binti Abdul Hamid, Secretary-General of MAFI, and PLS Plantations' Group Chief Executive Officer, Lee Hun Kheng.
YB Datuk Seri Dr. Ronald Kiandee said, "Malaysia continues to rise on the Global Food Security Index (GFSI)[1] and is ranked 39th, up from the 43rd spot in 2020[2]. We have performed well with an overall score of 70.1 compared to the previous year of 67.9. The increase in Malaysia's score (compared to the previous year) is the highest increase in score among the 113 countries involved.
However, due to multiple issues, compounded by rising population, and labour shortage, Malaysia's food and agriculture imports remains high at around RM55.5 billion[3]. As such, it is crucial for the industry – both public and private – to work closely to further strengthen our food sufficiency throughout the entire supply chain. At the same time, we need to organise ourselves to capitalise on opportunities to generate higher incomes for agriculture frontliners, close the income gap, and improve livelihoods. Securing this future also requires us to attract more youth to participate in the sector and we see public-private partnerships as a key strategy to injecting new programmes, technologies, and platforms that will attract new farmers and participants to the industry. Through these efforts we are confident we can improve our national food security resilience, accessibility, and affordability of quality food, which is in line with our National Food Security Policy (DSMN Action Plan) 2021 – 2025[4]."
YBhg. Tan Sri Mohammed Nazir added, "This MoU is a significant milestone for PLS Plantations. We look forward to supporting MAFI and the industry's efforts to further improve the nation's food sufficiency levels. The research and proposal will serve as a baseline that will guide our efforts in rolling out our food security programme. In addition, our newly launched initiatives, the PLS Agropreneur Programme and PLS Integrated Agrotech Park, will contribute to creating a thriving ecosystem where we can attract the experienced and specialised farmers to scale their farms and produce, as well as bring the best and brightest to participate in the industry."
The PLS Agropreneur Programme is a platform for new and experienced farmers who are interested to participate in the industry or scale their farms. It offers end-to-end support, from training and development, land lease, offtake network support, as well as financial support and incentives. The PLS Intergated Agrotech Park serves as a platform for collaboration with universities, and agrofood to science and technology companies.
He concluded, "Collaboration, specifically knowledge-sharing aided by technology and science have paved the way for the industries to grow and thrive. Likewise, for the agrofood industry, we see these initiatives as a way to elevate the industry, to bring our youth back to the suburbs and villages, and uplift the B40 communities, farmers and indigenous communities."
[1] Source: GFSI by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) based in London, United Kingdom https://tinyurl.com/54zydpck
[2] Source: MAFI – https://www.mafi.gov.my/en_US/gfsi-2021
[3] Source: Department of Statistics Malaysia 2022 https://tinyurl.com/5xbvnv6r
[4] Source: MAFI – https://tinyurl.com/2ccdnp8h
About PLS Plantations Berhad
PLS Plantations was incorporated in Malaysia in 1987 and was listed on the Second Board of Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange in 1994. Currently listed on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad, PLS and its subsidiaries are involved in the management and operation of forest, oil palm and durian plantations, as well as the processing, distribution and sale of durian products.
PLS Plantations received a Silver3 rating from RAM Sustainability in April 2022, setting the baseline for the Company's sustainability journey and framework. PLS Plantations remains guided by environment, social and governance (ESG) values as they progress towards becoming the nation's leading sustainable agrofood company. https://plsplantations.my/
Forward-Looking Statements
The statement included in this press release, other than statements of historical facts, are forward- looking statements. Forward-looking statement generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "plan," "seek," or "believe." These forward-looking statements, which are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, may include projections of our future financial performance based on our growth strategies and anticipated trends in our business. These statements are only predictions based on our current expectations about future event. There are important factors that could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements to differ materially from the results, level of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statement, including, but not limited to our ability to win additional business. Although we believe the expectations reflected in the forward- looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future result, level of activity, performance, or achievements. You should not rely upon forward- looking statements as predictions of future events. These forward-looking statements apply only as of the date of this press release; as such, they should not be unduly relied upon as circumstances change. Except as required by law, we are not obligated, and we undertake no obligation, to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements that might reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release or those that might reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com
World’s Biggest Deal for Humanoid Robots Inked
NEW YORK, Aug 4, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Robotics innovator Beyond Imagination, Inc. has entered into an agreement with SELF Labs, Inc. to provide at least 1,000 humanoid robots for use in agricultural "grow boxes"'. This is believed to be the largest deal of its kind.
 |
SELF and Beyond are announcing a partnership to develop automated off-the-grid grow boxes. Each box will be equipped with solar panels, windmills, atmospheric water generators, 5G, and an advanced version of Beyond Imagination's Beomni robot with its Omni-Purpose AI Brain. By aligning the visions of Milan Cheeks of SELF and Dr. Harry Kloor of Beyond, this futuristic take on farming will be made possible through a uniquely powerful combination of Omni-Purpose AI, humanoid robotics, blockchain, and game technology.
The deal with SELF represents one of the largest agreements to purchase humanoid robots in the world. Cheeks says that "We are committed to purchasing at least 1,000 robots in the next five years, but if the effectiveness of our combined technology is as we project, that number could easily grow to ten thousand or more." According to a recent report by Markets and Markets, the humanoid robotics market will reach an estimated USD 17.3 billion by 2027, registering a CAGR of 63.5% between 2022 and 2027. The agreement with Beyond is in alignment with this prediction. Dr. Kloor commented, "Beyond Imagination expects to represent a billion USD or more of that market share by 2027, and with our partnership with SELF Labs we are well on our way to that goal."
Each grow box will be connected to a SELF Labs-powered trivia-based simulation game called Cultivate Coin, which allows users to choose a role, learn about farming and the growing process, learn how to operate a grow box business, earn rewards, and most of all take part in the growing process virtually.
The Beomni Omni-Purpose AI powered humanoid robots supplied by Beyond will work autonomously inside of the boxes to tend to the growing crops. The boxes will run on solar energy, and by using atmospheric water generator technology will not require any outside sources for power or water, making them self-sufficient.
Video: https://youtube.com/shorts/OhHB6xmLu3c?feature=share
Most robots are targeted at narrow verticals or are merely elaborate R&D demos. Beomni is different. Its thinking general-purpose robotics platform learns from human pilots who train its AI Brain to tackle increasingly sophisticated tasks autonomously. Beomni, combined with Beyond's Cloud Platform and evolving AI, can tackle limitless tasks without requiring special peripherals like industrial robots. Beomni is a fully mobile robot that is designed to work safely around humans. It is the world's first fully functional general-purpose robotic system, and the first to be beta tested at a medical facility. According to Dr. Kloor, "Working with SELF and its community will enable us to rapidly train Beomni's AI Brain to plant, care and tend, harvest, and box the crops in SELF's grow boxes."
Beomni has advanced significantly since it was revealed at CES in 2022. In April, the company demonstrated that Beomni can be operated from anyplace in the world. Additional prototyping and on-site evaluation projects are currently underway. The version Beyond will deploy in the grow boxes will be even more advanced, and will be part of Beyond's 2.0 product line of Beomni robots.
"I'm excited to bring this idea to life!" said SELF Labs founder Milan Cheeks. "Adding decentralization and automation to the farming industry will benefit everyone. While there is no single solution to solve world hunger, our automated off the grid grow boxes is one tool that will go a long way in meeting the UN's goal to reach zero hunger by 2030."
The first box will be crafted at Box For Grow in New Hampton, NY. Once assembled, it will begin operation for use within the United States.
About SELF Labs
SELF Labs is an incubator that focuses on transitioning companies and individuals from Web 2 to Web 3. By investing and providing products that gamify life, we are able to create a form of entertainment while solving the world's major issues. SELF Labs is on a mission to remove the hardships in life and provide products and services to bring a more leisurely lifestyle to everyone on the planet.
Founded in 2016, SELF has built its own private Blockchain called SELF Chain. SELF Chain is lifestyle blockchain that hosts a suite of reward tokens that users can earn on the Mirror Image One Gaming Console.
For more information and partnership inquiries, reach out to hello@selflabs.xyz
About Beyond Imagination, Inc.
Beyond Imagination, Inc. is a robotics and AI platform company that is focused on bringing humanoid robots to market rapidly to solve real-world problems. By partnering a human pilot with an evolving Omni-Purpose AI Brain, we are able to deploy our Beomni Robotics platform across a wide range of commercial applications. Our initial focus is in two sectors, agriculture and surgical assistance.
Founded by leading innovators in AI and robotics, and strengthened by a solid patent portfolio, Beyond Imagination, Inc. is poised to revolutionize life and fundamentally change the way we work, travel and engage with others around the world.
Beyond Imagination is continuing to take advanced orders and is always open to strategic partnerships and investments from qualified investors.
For photos and videos, see our media page at www.beomni.ai/media and our latest short video here: https://vimeo.com/717147889/634a211922. Our Press Kit may be found at www.beomni.ai/press-kit/
Source: Plato Data Intelligence: Platodata.ai
Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com
PLS Plantations appoints Lee Hun Kheng as Group CEO to advance business transformation
KUALA LUMPUR, Jul 1, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – PLS Plantations Berhad announced the appointment of Lee Hun Kheng as the Group's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) effective today and retain his role as Executive Director of PLS Plantations. He will remain CEO of Aramijaya Agri & Agro Sdn. Bhd., a company that has been involved in developing innovating supply chain and forest management processes to create high quality sustainable forest products and services since 2002.
 |
PLS Plantations' Independent Non-Executive Chairman, Tan Sri Nazir Razak said, "We are pleased to welcome Lee Hun Kheng as our new Group CEO. His role as CEO of Aramijaya, the Group's forest plantation subsidiary and his 19 years' experience in the upstream and downstream sectors of the plantations industry will be critical in helping PLS Plantations navigate the complex industry and dynamic environment, as the Group transforms itself into Malaysia's leading sustainable agrifood company.
Mr. Lee's appointment is part of the Group's efforts to strengthen our senior management bench as the Group diversifies into commercial durian planting alongside cash crops and forest plantation.
PLS Plantations' diversification is aligned with the nation's food sufficiency efforts. We note and applaud the Prime Minister's recent statement on the critical importance of food security and the various new government initiatives to support the agrifood industry. With our much strengthened management team, we are well positioned to play a major role in addressing the nation's food security challenges."
Prior to his appointment as CEO at Aramijaya, Lee Hun Kheng was the marketing manager, responsible for increasing the product line offerings, through setting up new accounts of timber products and establishing the research and development projects on plantation. He is also a member of The Incorporated Society of Planters, a society established to develop and advance the professional interests of members within the plantation industry.
About PLS Plantations Berhad
PLS Plantations was incorporated in Malaysia in 1987 and was listed on the Second Board of Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange on 28 February 1995. Currently listed on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad, PLS Plantations and its subsidiaries are involved in the management and operation of forest, oil palm and durian plantations, as well as the processing, distribution and sale of durian products. https://plsplantations.my/
Media Contact:
Cheong Sue Fyenn
Narro Communications
E: suefyenn@narrocomms.com
T: +6016 910 7625
Forward-Looking Statements
The statement included in this press release, other than statements of historical facts, are forward- looking statements. Forward-looking statement generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "plan," "seek," or "believe." These forward-looking statements, which are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, may include projections of our future financial performance based on our growth strategies and anticipated trends in our business. These statements are only predictions based on our current expectations about future event. There are important factors that could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements to differ materially from the results, level of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statement, including, but not limited to our ability to win additional business. Although we believe the expectations reflected in the forward- looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future result, level of activity, performance, or achievements. You should not rely upon forward- looking statements as predictions of future events. These forward-looking statements apply only as of the date of this press release; as such, they should not be unduly relied upon as circumstances change. Except as required by law, we are not obligated, and we undertake no obligation, to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements that might reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release or those that might reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com
Azelis inaugurates state-of-the-art Regional Innovation Center for Food & Nutrition in Singapore
SINGAPORE, Jun 1, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Azelis, a leading innovation service provider in the specialty chemicals and food ingredients industry, announces the opening of its Regional Innovation Center (RIC) for Food & Nutrition (F&N) in Singapore, further demonstrating the Group's commitment to continuously invest in its innovation capabilities.
 |
The RIC will generate a wealth of possibilities for food innovation towards healthier and tastier solutions through pioneering, ready-to-use formulations with advanced, sustainable ingredients. Functioning as an innovation catalyst for the F&N ecosystem in Asia Pacific, the RIC is an essential milestone in Azelis' growth strategy, strengthening the Group's position as a leading provider of innovative solutions.
In addition to the RIC, Azelis' five F&N application laboratories across Asia Pacific form a regional innovation network that brings together the technical expertise and formulation capabilities of the local and regional teams for greater synergy. This setup allows Azelis to serve the F&N market more efficiently, realize advanced ingredient synergies and develop ground-breaking formulations and sustainable solutions that will be cascaded across the region.
Vikash Raj, Asia Pacific Innovation Director, remarks: "The RIC allows us to support our customers in their projects by developing innovative solutions for all stages of the formulation process from concept to final product, across industry applications in Bakery, Beverage, Confectionery, Dairy and Savory. Focusing on innovation in new products and applications is our objective, and thanks to our comprehensive lateral value chain, we have access to sustainable building blocks for food and beverage formulations. Our vision for the RIC is to positively impact our sustainability, health, and wellness ambitions by creating pioneering formulations that address nutrition and health challenges and bring healthy solutions to the mainstream market."
Laurent Nataf, CEO & President Asia Pacific, comments: "With more than 20 laboratories in the region covering our key market segments, we have significantly invested in our innovation capabilities across Asia Pacific to ensure we deliver on our brand promise, 'Innovation through formulation'. Our regional innovation network builds on our formulation expertise and technical capabilities by encouraging greater collaboration across our teams to strengthen cross-country synergies, increase efficiency, and ensure consistent formulation success for our customers. We look forward to further strengthening our partnerships with our customers and principals by allowing them to leverage the strength of our ever-growing innovation network capabilities, remaining their innovation partner of choice."
To find out more, watch a video introducing the Regional Innovation Center in Singapore. https://youtu.be/RDJ4OhQcDh8
Contact information
Azelis
Lillian Ying
Asia Pacific Corporate Communications Manager
T: +65 9855 8818
E: lillian.ying@azelis.com
About Azelis
Azelis is a leading global innovation service provider in the specialty chemical and food ingredients industry present in over 50 countries across the globe with over 3,000 employees. Our knowledgeable teams of industry, market and technical experts are each dedicated to a specific market within Life Sciences and Industrial Chemicals. We offer a lateral value chain of complementary products to more than 51,000 customers, supported by ~2,300 principal relationships, creating a turnover of EUR2.8 billion (2021). Azelis Group NV is listed on Euronext Brussels under ticker AZE.
Across our extensive network of more than 60 application laboratories, our award-winning staff help develop formulations and provide technical guidance throughout the customers' product development process. We combine a global market reach with a local footprint to offer a reliable, integrated and unique digital service to local customers and attractive business opportunities to principals. EcoVadis Platinum rated, Azelis is a leader in sustainability. We believe in building and nurturing solid, honest and transparent relationships with our people and partners.
Impact through ideas. Innovation through formulation.
http://www.azelis.com/
Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com
PLS Plantations profits surge by 411.5% to RM13.3 million
KUALA LUMPUR, May 30, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – PLS Plantations Berhad today announced a 411.5% jump in their net profit for their third quarter financial performance for the period ended 31 March 2022 (Q3FY2022). The Company recorded a net profit before tax (PBT) of RM16.1 million, 455.1% higher compared to RM2.9 million recorded in the corresponding quarter for the period ended 31 March 2021 (Q4FY2021). PLS Plantations' net profit after taxation and minority interest (PATMI) in Q3FY2022 came in at RM12.4 million, 416.7% higher than RM2.4 million in Q4FY2021. Total revenue climbed to RM32.1 million, an increase of 169.8% from RM 18.9 million in Q4FY2021. The increase in revenue and PBT were mainly attributed to the improved contribution made from the sales of fresh fruit bunches (FFB), and frozen durian products from international markets, especially China, as well as the collection of progress payment monies generated under the construction arm.
PLS Plantations' PATMI for the quarter stood at RM12.4 million, 67.6% higher than RM7.4 million recorded in the preceding quarter ended 31 December 2021 (Q2FY2022). However, total revenue recorded in Q3FY2022 saw a drop of 44% to RM32.1 million, compared to RM57.3 million in Q2FY2022. The lower revenue for the period was attributed to the off-peak durian cycle that resulted in lower harvest numbers. Earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter stood at 2.88 sen (fully diluted) compared to 0.58 sen in Q4FY2021.
PLS Plantations' Executive Vice Chairman, Tan Sri Dato' Lim Kang Hoo highlighted, "PLS is working hard to continue the strong execution of our turnaround plan in order to meet our targets and aspirations. In addition to diversifying our revenue streams and improving our operational mechanisms, we have been building the organisation's bench strength by bringing onboard experienced talent from the industry as well as promoting from within, capable members of the company to senior management positions. Growing our staff strength is crucial – to which PLS has been prioritising the hiring of bright, local talent as the Company ventures into other agricultural and cash crops segments."
Tan Sri Dato' Lim concluded, "In addition, we have also set the baseline for our sustainability journey and will be working towards rolling out a sustainability framework to guide our business and operations. Since our Silver3 rating from RAM Sustainability, we have established a ESG working committee to further develop and refine our processes and structures as we continue our progress towards becoming the nation's leading sustainable agrofood company. We remain guided by ESG values as we move towards future proofing the Company whilst supporting our country's food security goals."
About PLS Plantations Berhad
PLS Plantations was incorporated in Malaysia in 1987 and was listed on the Second Board of Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange in 1994. Currently listed on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad, PLS and its subsidiaries are involved in the management and operation of forest, oil palm and durian plantations, as well as the processing, distribution and sale of durian products.
Forward-Looking Statements
The statement included in this press release, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statement generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "plan," "seek," or "believe." These forward-looking statements, which are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, may include projections of our future financial performance based on our growth strategies and anticipated trends in our business. These statements are only predictions based on our current expectations about future event. There are important factors that could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements to differ materially from the results, level of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statement, including, but not limited to our ability to win additional business. Although we believe the expectations reflected in the forward- looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future result, level of activity, performance, or achievements. You should not rely upon forward- looking statements as predictions of future events. These forward-looking statements apply only as of the date of this press release; as such, they should not be unduly relied upon as circumstances change. Except as required by law, we are not obligated, and we undertake no obligation, to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements that might reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release or those that might reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
Media Contact:
Cheong Sue Fyenn
Narro Communications
E: suefyenn@narrocomms.com
T: +6016 910 7625
PLS Plantations Berhad: https://plsplantations.my/
PLS Plantations Berhad: 9695 / [BURSA: PLS]
Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com
Azelis publishes its 2020 sustainability report, demonstrating progress against ambition to innovate and advance in sustainability
SINGAPORE, Aug 26, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Azelis, a leading innovative service provider in the specialty chemicals and food ingredients industry, is proud to publish its second sustainability report which covers the 2020 group-wide sustainability performance.
 |
Highlights & rationale
– The report showcases Azelis' environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments and reinforces its ambitions to become the world-leading provider of sustainable solutions and services
– Azelis sustainability strategy, Action 2025, is built upon four pillars: People, Products and Innovation, Governance and Environment
– Azelis was awarded a Platinum rating by EcoVadis, the highest distinction in the supplier sustainability rating scheme, a recognition of its sustainability commitments
Azelis' sustainability journey started in 2015 when the company defined the fundamentals of its sustainability program, following the Paris Agreement on climate change and the release of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by the United Nations. Based on the United Nations Global Compact (UN GC) initiative, ISO 26000 and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the program consists of four pillars, each with goals and KPIs. Within each pillar, Azelis also contributes to a number of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs).
In 2020, Azelis laid the grounds for its new sustainability strategy, Action 2025. Rolled out in early 2021, the strategy captures the company's continued ambitions to innovate and to advance in sustainability. The main 2020 developments across all four pillars of the Azelis sustainability strategy include:
– People – Another edition of the company-wide employee satisfaction survey, which has been in place since 2014, was conducted. Thanks to the extensive improvement actions put in place across the entire organization following the 2018 survey, Azelis succeeded in already reaching the 2025 goals for loyalty and working conditions and is very close to the goal for engagement. As the company aims to continuously improve, it intends to raise the bar of the 2025 goals by the end of 2021.
– Products and Innovation – Azelis continued with the identification of sustainable products and intensified sustainable formulation work. For this, the company specifically focused on products that minimize or eliminate the use and generation of hazardous substances. Progress was also made on the sustainable sourcing due diligence procedure in 2020. This was reinforced by Azelis' membership to "Together for Sustainability" a joint initiative and global network of 31 chemical companies, which delivers the de facto global standard for environmental, social and governance performance of chemical supply chains.
– Governance – Azelis launched its SpeakUp! Policy and SpeakUp! Line, which are available to employees and any third-party stakeholder for reporting malpractices. This ensures a culture where employees are encouraged to speak up in a safe environment, and where they will not feel victimized or retaliated against.
– Environment – Azelis is committed to a carbon intensity reduction target of 25% by 2025 and 50% by 2030. Furthermore, the company has set targets of using 100% of electricity in its offices and sites from renewable sources as well as decarbonization in its operations and supply chain.
Dr. Hans Joachim Muller, Azelis Chief Executive Officer, comments: "Perhaps the most important lesson of 2020 was that we cannot and must not continue as before the Covid-19 pandemic. It is the responsibility of all of us, as businesses, as consumers, as human beings, to act more sustainably and responsibly. Despite the turmoil 2020 brought, it has been yet another pivotal year of progress for Azelis. More than ever, sustainability is a driver of innovation for Azelis and innovation is a driver of sustainability. Across all market segments, our formulation experts are helping customers reduce their environmental impact by developing innovations that minimize or eliminate the use and generation of hazardous substances. They are also creating formulations and practices that deliver enhanced performance while protecting human health and the environment. Our innovations catalyze sustainability in the market segments we serve and their value chains, and will help realize concepts such as circular economy."
Maria J. Almenar Martin, Group Safety, Health, Environment and Quality (SHEQ) and Sustainability Director, adds: "As Group Sustainability Director I look back at our 2020 sustainability achievements proudly and with excitement and confidence to the years to come to reach our 2025 sustainability targets. With our recently awarded Platinum rating from EcoVadis and this latest edition of the sustainability report, we confirm to all our partners the proven track record of our sustainability efforts and commitments since we started our journey back in 2015. We are in a resolute course of action to be catalyst of change when it comes to sustainable business models and become the benchmark for the industry."
To become a world-leading innovation service provider in the specialty chemicals and food ingredients distribution industry, Azelis has identified digitalization, innovation and sustainability as its growth drivers. Through Azelis' connected solutions, the company is leading the way in customer engagement, whilst providing the digital insight that will drive new levels of chemical innovation. With its redefined sustainability strategy, Action 2025, Azelis is building a resilient, thriving and responsible business. Through these commitments, the company will meet the needs of its stakeholders, whilst also creating a positive and widespread impact on the environment and communities around the world.
Contact information
Azelis
Marina Kaptein
Group Communications Director
T: +32 3 613 0125
E: marina.kaptein@azelis.com
About Azelis
Azelis is a leading global innovation service provider in the specialty chemical and food ingredients industry present in over 50 countries across the globe with around 2,500 employees. Our knowledgeable teams of industry, market and technical experts are each dedicated to a specific market within Life Sciences and Industrial Chemicals. We offer a lateral value chain of complementary products to more than 45,000 customers, supported by ~2,200 principal relationships, creating a turnover of EUR 2.22 billion (2020).
Across our extensive network of more than 60 application laboratories, our award-winning staff help develop formulations and provide technical guidance throughout the customers' product development process. We combine a global market reach with a local footprint to offer a reliable, integrated and unique digital service to local customers and attractive business opportunities to principals. EcoVadis Platinum rated, Azelis is a leader in sustainability. We believe in building and nurturing solid, honest and transparent relationships with our people and partners.
Impact through ideas. Innovation through formulation.
www.azelis.com
Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com
Seedo Corp. Appoints Avi Stern from Wix.Com to Board of Directors
Tel Aviv, Israel, Aug 24, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Seedo Corp. (saffron-tech.ag) (OTC: SEDO), an Agtech company that is developing the protocols to grow saffron using vertical farming technology, today announced the appointment of Avi Stern to its board of directors as an Independent Director. Stern currently serves as the Vice President of Finance at Wix.com, a leading cloud-based website development platform with millions of users worldwide.
 |
"We are pleased to welcome Avi Stern to our board as an Independent Director," says Dr.Gil Feiler, Chairman Seedo Corp. "Avi is coming from one of largest market cap Israeli companies and is a recognized leader whose extensive knowledge in regulatory oversight, business development and finance management will be instrumental as we execute on our vision of delivering a reliable, large-scale and premium supply of saffron to the market and preparing for a proposed up-listing to the NASDAQ capital market."
"Seedo Corp. is quickly advancing its presence in the Agtech industry, and I am delighted to join the board of directors as Independent Director during a time of great success and continued momentum," says Avi Stern. "I see enormous potential in Seedo Corp's capabilities and its potential to disrupt the market in the future. I look forwarded to contributing to Seedo Corp's future growth as the company implements new strategic initiatives."
Prior to his role as Vice President of Finance at Wix.com, Stern served in several public and private companies in executive finance roles.
Seedo Corp. subsidiary, Saffron Tech, was recently awarded a $1 million grant from the Israeli Innovation Authority to support its R&D efforts in growing saffron using vertical farming technology. The company has already successfully harvested two cycles of saffron in its indoor growing lab. Traditional agriculture only produces saffron once annually. The company is now designing the growing conditions which it believes will enable it to produce a third cycle, tripling the amount of saffron available to the marketplace
About Seedo:
Seedo Corp. (OTC: SEDO) is an agtech company that focuses on the research, development, and commercialization of agriculture products that are high in demand but are hindered by the low yields and specifications required by traditional farming. Seedo's technology is aimed at offering a responsible and sustainable way to grow crops in a world confronted by environmental challenges and dwindling earth reserves, diminishing water sources and unstable weather conditions.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This letter contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are based on management's current beliefs and expectations and are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, both known and unknown, that could cause our future results, performance or achievements to differ significantly from that expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include risks relating to our ability to successfully execute a smooth transition of CFO functions as well as our ability to retain and recruit qualified executives; uncertainties related to, and failure to achieve, the potential benefits and success of our senior management team and organizational structure; our ability to successfully compete in the marketplace; our substantial indebtedness, which may limit our ability to incur additional indebtedness, engage in additional transactions or make new investments; compliance, regulatory and litigation matters; other financial and economic risks; and other factors discussed in our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, including in the sections captioned "Risk Factors" and "Forward Looking Statements." Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements or other information contained herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. You are cautioned not to put undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.
Contact:
David Freidenberg,
Chief Executive Officer
info@saffron.ag
+1 (800) 608-6432
Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com
Seedo Subsidiary Awarded Grant from Israeli innovation Authority
Tel Aviv, Israel, Aug 10, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Seedo Corp. (saffron-tech.ag) (OTC: SEDO) subsidiary has been awarded a $1,000,000 (One Million) grant from the Israeli Innovation Authority. The new grant will allow the AgTech company to accelerate its R&D program building on its groundbreaking development of the protocols for growing saffron using vertical farming technology. The funds will be allocated to enable the company expand its facilities, allowing it to grow more saffron for commercial use. This will bring the company closer than ever to achieving its mission to revolutionize the billion-dollar saffron market by bringing a large-scale supply of the spice to the market. The Israel Innovation Authority is an independent publicly funded agency created to provide funding platforms aimed at effectively addressing innovation ecosystems. This grant demonstrates the Israel Innovation Authority recognition of the innovation and potential of the company's technology and solutions.
 |
"We are very proud to receive this funding from the Israeli Innovation Authority," says David Freidenberg, CEO, Seedo Corp. "In this new era of agriculture that incorporates innovative technology to the cultivation process, it makes sense that the Israeli Innovation Authority would support Seedo's forward-thinking endeavor. Saffron is just the start and this generous grant will help us advance further in our business plans. The Israeli Innovation Authority reviews thousands of new and innovative science companies in determining which ones not only have disruptive science, but also the stability and practicality to function in the open market environment, so this is truly a badge of honor".
Seedo Corp. and its subsidiary recently invested in state-of-the-art equipment featuring the latest software designed to create the precise growing conditions to deliver superior quality saffron suited for a variety of applications. The company has already successfully harvested two cycles of saffron in its indoor growing lab. Traditional agriculture only produces saffron once annually. The company is now designing conditions which it believes will enable it to produce a third cycle, Tripling the amount of saffron available to the marketplace.
About Seedo
Seedo Corp. (OTC: SEDO) is an AgTech company that focuses on the research, development, and commercialization of agriculture products that are high in demand but are hindered by the low yields and specifications required by traditional farming. Seedo's technology is aimed at offering a responsible and sustainable way to grow crops in a world confronted by environmental challenges and dwindling earth reserves, diminishing water sources and unstable weather conditions.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This letter contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are based on management's current beliefs and expectations and are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, both known and unknown, that could cause our future results, performance or achievements to differ significantly from that expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include risks relating to our ability to successfully execute a smooth transition of CFO functions as well as our ability to retain and recruit qualified executives; uncertainties related to, and failure to achieve, the potential benefits and success of our senior management team and organizational structure; our ability to successfully compete in the marketplace; our substantial indebtedness, which may limit our ability to incur additional indebtedness, engage in additional transactions or make new investments; compliance, regulatory and litigation matters; other financial and economic risks; and other factors discussed in our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, including in the sections captioned "Risk Factors" and "Forward Looking Statements." Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements or other information contained herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. You are cautioned not to put undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.
Contact:
David Freidenberg,
Chief Executive Officer
info@saffron.ag
+1 (800) 608-6432
Source: Plato Data Intelligence
Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com
theacnnewswire.news.blog 