APAC News
WestK and Cathay launch “WestK in the Sky” video series on Cathay Pacific’s in-flight entertainment system in April 2025
The West Kowloon Cultural District Authority (WKCDA or the Authority) is pleased to announce the launch of a new video series, “WestK in the Sky”, in collaboration with its exclusive Travel Partner, Cathay. The videos are now available on the in-flight entertainment system across Cathay Pacific’s extensive passenger network, reaching travellers from around the globe to promote Hong Kong's arts and cultural scene. This new video initiative builds on the three-year partnership between WestK and Cathay signed in 2023, reinforcing their shared vision to promote Hong Kong's premium arts scene and cultural landscape to global travellers and boost the city’s standing as a cultural tourism hub. Produced by WestK, the video series explores the unique programmes, exhibitions and experiences staged by the Hong Kong Palace Museum, M+ and the Performing Arts Division of WestK through creative storytelling, showcasing both WestK and Cathay’s role in promoting Hong Kong's artistic excellence. Six episodes were launched from 1 April, starting with “A Unique Cultural Mission” , in which renowned host and artiste Do Do Cheng visits the Hong Kong Palace Museum in the West Kowloon Cultural District and Cathay City to engage in inspiring conversations with Betty Fung, Chief Executive Officer of WKCDA, and Ronald Lam, Chief Executive Officer of the Cathay Group, exploring their shared mission to promote the excellence of Hong Kong’s arts, culture and creative industries. Other episodes include: “Inside Hong Kong Palace Museum” : Museum Director Dr Louis Ng unveils the Museum's stunning architecture, captivating exhibitions and innovative digital initiatives and multi-media experiences. “Inside M+” : Museum Director Suhanya Raffel is joined by Artistic Director and Chief Curator Doryun Chong to guide viewers around M+, Asia’s global museum of contemporary visual culture in Hong Kong, and learn more about its diverse collections and exhibitions. “A Dazzling Fashion Journey” : Acclaimed singer and fashion icon Karen Mok explores three centuries of French fashion at the Hong Kong Palace Museum. Lending her voice to the audio guide for the 2024 exhibition "The Adorned Body: French Fashion and Jewellery 1770–1910 from the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris", Ms Mok takes the audience on a journey through this exquisite collection of historical costumes and accessories. “M+ Facade: A Canvas of Light” : One of the world’s largest LED screens, the M+ Facade presents a stunning display against the backdrop of Hong Kong’s famous skyline , turning the museum's tower frontage into a vibrant, dynamic canvas that acts as a curatorial space and digital exhibition platform. This video introduces various past commissions and reveals the best locations to view the works. “When Jazz meets Cantopop” : The Patrick Lui Jazz Orchestra joined forces with Cantopop icons RubberBand at Freespace Jazz Fest 2024, one of WestK's signature music events, to reimagine music from classic Hong Kong films. This episode reveals the creative journey behind this unprecedented collaboration, offering viewers an intimate look at how jazz and pop music were brought together in an inspiring way. Ronald Lam, Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer, said, “We are excited to launch 'WestK in the Sky' in collaboration with the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority on Cathay Pacific’s award-winning in-flight entertainment system. The collaboration not only allows us to highlight the allure of Hong Kong through compelling storytelling, but also underscores Cathay’s vital role in promoting the long-term and sustainable development of Hong Kong’s arts and culture. I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to participate in the first episode, sharing stories of Cathay’s support for the WKCDA’s various exhibitions and performing arts programmes with our customers around the globe, and our joint commitment to strengthening Hong Kong’s position as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange." Betty Fung, Chief Executive Officer of the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority, said, “We are grateful for the staunch support from Cathay to provide a global platform that enables international travellers to experience WestK’s unique offerings through the ‘WestK in the Sky’ video series. WestK attracts more than 10 million visitors from around the world every year and we look forward to welcoming even more global audiences through Cathay Pacific's extensive passenger network, allowing them to explore our diverse arts and cultural offerings and promoting local and international artistic and cultural exchange.” Do Do Cheng expressed her delight at being able to participate in the “WestK in the Sky” video series. “WestK stands one of the world's largest cultural projects and Hong Kong's newest cultural landmark, while Cathay is a prestigious lifestyle brand deeply rooted in Hong Kong's premium travel sector. As a homegrown artiste, I am delighted to be part of this project, collaborating with these two iconic Hong Kong brands to showcase our city's vibrant cultural energy to a global audience.” WKCDA and Cathay announced a three-year partnership in 2023, with Cathay becoming the Authority’s exclusive Travel Partner. The partnership with Cathay supports WestK in various ways, including the provision of air services for transporting exhibits for exhibitions organised by the Hong Kong Palace Museum and M+, and for the inbound and outbound travel oflocal and overseas artists participating in WestK’s performing arts programmes. A Unique Cultural Mission Inside Hong Kong Palace Museum Inside M+ A Dazzling Fashion Journey M+ Facade A Canvas Of Light When Jazz Meets Cantopop
Towngas to supply green methanol to Golden Island for Singapore bunkering operations
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- April 4, 2025Business
Gas Malaysia Addresses Gas Supply Curtailment Following the Putra Heights Incident
Gas Malaysia Berhad ("Gas Malaysia" or "the Group"), a member of the MMC Group, wishes to provide an update regarding the status of gas supply following the temporary closure of gas facilities due to the incident at Putra Heights recently. Following the above incident, a gas supply curtailment has been implemented, affecting several Gas Malaysia customers in Shah Alam, Kundang, Petaling Jaya, Teluk Panglima Garang, Pelabuhan Klang, Pulau Indah and other areas. The affected customers have been earlier notified and the Group will continue to provide them with updates on the progress of the situation. Gas Malaysia recognises the challenges faced by its customers and remains committed in engaging with other relevant stakeholders such as gas supplier and authorities while actively working towards minimising disruption. Safety and operational integrity remain Gas Malaysia’s top priority and the Group has mobilised the necessary resources to closely monitor the situation. Based on latest available information, the incident is not expected to have a material effect on the Group’s earnings for the financial year ending 2025. The Group appreciates the understanding and cooperation of its valued customers as well as stakeholders during this challenging period and will provide updates as new information becomes available. -ends- About Gas Malaysia Berhad Gas Malaysia Berhad, a member of MMC Corporation Berhad, was established on 16 May 1992 to sell, market and distribute natural gas as well as to construct, operate and maintain the Natural Gas Distribution System (“NGDS”) within Peninsular Malaysia. Gas Malaysia is licensed under the Gas Supply Act, 1993 (“GSA”) by the Suruhanjaya Tenaga (“ST”), with the approval of the Minister, to supply and sell reticulated natural gas in Peninsular Malaysia. On 15 December 2000, Gas Malaysia was granted the licence to supply and sell reticulated Liquefied Petroleum Gas (“LPG”). This licence further expands Gas Malaysia’s business in the supply of reticulated LPG to commercial and residential sectors within Peninsular Malaysia. Gas Malaysia currently operates and maintains over 2,800 kilometres of Natural Gas Distribution System network across Peninsular Malaysia, supplying natural gas and LPG to over 1,000 industrial customers, about 1,900 commercial customers and over 21,000 residential customers. For more information, please visit www.gasmalaysia.com About MMC Corporation Berhad MMC Corporation Berhad (MMC) has evolved over the years to be the Malaysia’s leading utilities and infrastructure group with diversified businesses under three core divisions; energy & utilities, ports & logistics and engineering & constructions. As an active player with a diversified portfolio of businesses in utilities and infrastructure, MMC Corporation has and will continue to make significant contributions to the development of human and intellectual capital as well as to the environment and the local community. For more information, please visit www.mmc.com.my FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES: Gas Malaysia Berhad En. Kamarul Ariffin Ibrahim Head of Group Corporate Affairs Gas Malaysia Berhad No. 5, Jalan Serendah 26/17, Seksyen 26, Peti Surat 7901, 40732, Shah Alam, Selangor. Tel: +603 5192 3000 / +6019 313 6840 Email: kamarulariffin@gasmalaysia.com
- April 3, 2025Business
CATL Joins Hands with Sinopec to Build Battery Swap Stations
Recently, CATL and Sinopec inked a cooperation framework agreement in Beijing. According to the agreement, both parties will commit to extensive and long-term strategic partnership in the hope of accomplishing a battery-swapping ecosystem across the whole nation, with no less than 500 battery swap stations complete in this year, and up to 10,000 ones in the long run. Previously, CATL and Sinopec already established a solid cooperation in aspects like the construction and operation of integrated energy station, energy storage, energy products，new materials and technological innovation. Moving forward, the two companies will leverage their respective strengths to further expand collaboration in the battery swap sector. At the ceremony, CAES and QIJI Energy - subsidiaries of CATL - signed Battery Swapping Business Cooperation Agreement with Sinopec Sales Co., Ltd. In the progress of "10,000 Battery Swap Stations Vision", both parties will work together to create an integrated service network connecting "People, Vehicles, Energy, and Life," which will provide standardized and scalable support for the achievement of China's "dual-carbon" goals. Both companies will leverage their respective advantages, in which Sinopec, with its nationwide gas station network and energy infrastructure capabilities, and CATL, with its R&D expertise in cutting-edge battery technology and battery swap system, will jointly drive the construction and operation of battery swap stations. Specifically, based on CATL's Choco-Swap and QiJi battery swapping solutions, the two companies will cooperate to break through the range bottleneck for passenger vehicles and heavy-duty trucks, with an intention to establish a more efficient, convenient, and cost-effective energy replenishment network. CATL remains committed to creating value for consumers through technological innovation, ensuring everyone has access to high-quality batteries and a better driving experience in the era of smart vehicles. "The trend toward full electrification in the automotive industry is becoming increasingly clear, and the market is calling for a more complete energy supply network. CATL hopes to make battery swap as convenient as refueling through this cooperation with Sinopec, a mission and vision shared by battery swap players." said Yang Jun, CEO of CATL's battery swapping arm CAES. Regarding compatible battery-swap vehicle models, CAES based on the Choco-Swap solutions, has partnered with several mainstream automakers to launch models such as the Changan Oshan 520, Aion S, and FAW Hongqi EQM5. QiJi Energy, based on the QiJi battery swapping solutions, has worked with major truck manufacturers including Sinotruk, Jiefang, Foton, and DeepWay to co-launch over 30 models featuring chassis battery swapping solutions. This cooperation marks a new stage in the systematic development of the battery swapping ecosystem. As leading players in the traditional energy and new energy sectors, Sinopec and CATL will jointly promote the construction of power and energy standardization, and build a nationwide integrated energy infrastructure, contributing a Chinese example to global energy transition efforts.
- April 3, 2025Business
Towngas-produced green methanol completes first large-scale bunkering operation
Significant progress has been made in the green methanol bunkering sector for methanol produced on the Chinese mainland. Recently, 2,902.5 tonnes of green methanol manufactured by Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited (Towngas) in Inner Mongolia were successfully bunkered onto the Korean vessel “HMM Green” using the bunkering vessel “Haigang Zhiyuan”, owned by SIPG Energy , at the Shanghai Yangshan Phase IV Automated Terminal. This operation was carried out in a synchronous bunkering operation (i.e., container loading/unloading and methanol bunkering at the same time). This marks the first large-scale bunkering operation for green methanol produced on the Chinese mainland and is currently the largest green methanol bunkering project in Asia. The green methanol used in this operation was produced by Towngas at its facility in Ordos, Inner Mongolia, and transported to Shanghai via a combination of land and sea routes. This methanol is made from biomass and municipal waste, meeting ISCC EU certification standards, with a greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction of up to 70% across its entire lifecycle. This showcases Towngas’s technological capabilities and leadership in the green energy sector. The bunkering operation also underscores the close collaboration between Towngas and Shanghai International Port Group (SIPG) , marking the successful implementation of a comprehensive industrial chain supply service for green methanol manufactured on the Chinese mainland at the Port of Shanghai. In line with the global “dual carbon” goals, the latest Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships targets reductions of at least 20% by 2030 and at least 70% by 2040, relative to 2008 levels. As a result, green methanol is considered a preferred choice for the shipping industry to reduce GHG emissions, whether from safety, technological maturity, or scalability perspectives. Towngas has extensive experience in investing in and operating green methanol projects, leveraging its proprietary technology to transform biomass and municipal waste into green methanol. Since 2022, it has secured ISCC EU and ISCC PLUS international certifications for three consecutive years, becoming the first mainland enterprise to obtain these certifications for green methanol production. By 2025, Towngas plans to reach an annual production capacity of 150,000 tonnes. As Towngas looks to the future, it will continue to forge partnerships with diverse stakeholders to advance the development and production of green methanol. This collaborative effort aims to accelerate the widespread adoption and application of green energy, fostering a sustainable green shipping ecosystem that supports the long-term sustainability of the global shipping industry. - END - Press photos: Photo 1: Green methanol produced by Towngas was recently bunkered onto the Korean cargo vessel “HMM Green” via a methanol bunkering vessel (green hull). Photo 2: Towngas’s methanol production plant in Ordos, Inner Mongolia, employs proprietary technology to convert biomass and municipal waste into green methanol. It is the first enterprise on the Chinese mainland to achieve ISCC EU and ISCC PLUS certifications for green methanol. For media enquiries, please contact: The Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited Ms Kara Kwong Assistant Corporate Affairs Manager Tel: 2963 3497 / 6698 3357 Email: kara.kwong@towngas.com Mr Julius Chow Senior Corporate Affairs Officer Tel: 2963 3471 / 6969 1360 Email: julius.chow@towngas.com
- April 3, 2025Business
Yamaha Motor Acquires Telwater, the Leading Australian Boat Manufacturer - Expanding sales networks and strengthening the foundations of the marine business -
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) announces that its subsidiary, Yamaha Motor Australia Pty Ltd., has signed a purchase agreement with subsidiaries of BRP Inc., headquartered in Canada, to acquire all shares of Telwater Pty Ltd. (Telwater), an Australian aluminum boat manufacturer it owns. This acquisition is premised on obtaining the clearances, permits, etc., required by competition laws and other regulations. Telwater is one of Australia's oldest boat manufacturers and one of the major producers and seller of boats in the southern hemisphere. Telwater is a leader in Australia's aluminum boat market with well-known brands such as Quintrex, Stacer, and Savage, catering to a wide range of customer needs. With decades of experience and advanced manufacturing expertise, Telwater has built a reputation for producing high-quality, durable boats. The acquisition of Telwater is intended to strengthen the foundations of Yamaha Motor's marine business, and the Company aims to not only expand its sales network in the country but also reinforce the foundations of its outboard motor business. Yamaha Motor positions the Marine Products business as a core business, and in its new Medium-Term Management Plan announced this February, the Company has made raising the competitiveness of its core businesses part of its basic policy. Going forward, Yamaha Motor will continue to accelerate its growth by making strategic investments, offering attractive products and services, and expanding global sales channels. Image of the "Stacer" manufactured by Telwater Telwater logo Exterior view of the Telwater plant
- April 3, 2025Business
IJM-owned 25 Finsbury Circus secures international law firm as anchor tenant
IJM Corporation Berhad (“IJM” or “the Group”) announced today that international law firm Simmons & Simmons LLP (“Simmons & Simmons”) has signed a 20-year lease as the anchor tenant at 25 Finsbury Circus, the Group’s recently acquired commercial property located in the City of London’s central business district. Under the lease, Simmons & Simmons—a global law firm with 129 years of history, 21 offices worldwide, over 1,300 lawyers and 1,000 business services professionals—will occupy 62% of the building across multiple floors, with an option to expand their tenancy to up to 80%. The new space will support the firm’s plans to enhance its London presence, offering flexible office layouts, wellness-focused areas and end-of-journey facilities such as bicycle storage, showers, wellness rooms and lockers — encouraging healthier commuting options. The signing highlights the property’s strong appeal to top-tier tenants seeking future-ready office environments in one of London’s most connected business hubs. Acquired for £72.5 million (RM416.7 million) in February this year, 25 Finsbury Circus is undergoing a comprehensive £150 million (approximately RM853.5 million) sustainability-led refurbishment and reconfiguration, which will increase its total footprint by 26%. Upon completion, the Grade II-listed building will feature approximately 378,000 sq ft of gross internal area (GIA) and a net lettable area of 251,068 sq ft, with a projected gross development value (GDV) of approximately £420 million (RM2.4 billion). Full planning consent for the redevelopment, comprising a restoration of its historic façade, a two-floor extension and a new rooftop terrace, was secured ahead of the acquisition, enabling works to commence immediately. The property occupies a prime site overlooking Finsbury Circus Gardens, the largest public open space in the City of London. Located in the heart of London’s financial district, it is surrounded by major global financial institutions, professional services firms and leading technology companies. Just a two-minute walk from Liverpool Street Station—now the UK’s busiest transport hub with the addition of the Elizabeth Line—the building offers exceptional accessibility. “We are pleased to welcome Simmons & Simmons as the anchor tenant at 25 Finsbury Circus. Today’s signing affirms market confidence and tenant appeal for this property. Their long-term lease underscores the value of the asset and aligns with IJM’s strategy of building an international portfolio of well-positioned properties offering strong recurring income potential,” said Dato’ Lee Chun Fai, CEO & Managing Director of IJM Corporation Berhad. Jeremy Hoyland, Managing Partner of Simmons & Simmons, added: “We are very pleased to have secured 25 Finsbury Circus as the new base for our London office. This dynamic office space is an excellent fit for the firm and a strong statement of our ambitions. Like the firm itself, it combines heritage with innovation – and most importantly, it’s equipped to meet our growth objectives, ensuring that Simmons will remain highly competitive in the years ahead.” The building’s remaining upper floors are available for lease, offering office spaces with panoramic views of Finsbury Circus Gardens. Flexible retail and convenience-focused spaces are targeted for the ground and lower ground floors, enhancing the property's appeal and convenience. The refurbishment prioritises sustainability, incorporating energy-efficient smart systems and targeting certifications including BREEAM Outstanding, WELL Platinum, NABERS 4 Stars, EPC A, and WiredScore Platinum. Refurbishment works commenced earlier this month, with contractors already on site, and completion scheduled within 36 months. –End– Photos and caption: A landmark in London’s financial and tech hub. Finsbury Circus is strategically located in London’s financial district, which is evolving into a global technology hub. This makes it a prime commercial asset, offering a blend of heritage, connectivity and modern workspace solutions. Unrivalled connectivity in the heart of London. Located less than a 2-minute walk from Liverpool Street Station, Finsbury Circus offers seamless access to the Elizabeth Line (Crossrail)–one of the UK’s busiest transport hubs, reinforcing its status as a highly connected commercial hub. Overlooking the elliptical Finsbury Circus Gardens, the largest public open space in the City of London, this prestigious commercial address blends historic charm with a unique green retreat in the financial district. About IJM Corporation Berhad IJM Corporation Berhad (“IJM”), formed in 1983, today ranks as one of Malaysia’s leading conglomerates with an international footprint forged by its four core businesses: construction, property development, industry (quarrying and the manufacture of building materials) and infrastructure concessions. IJM holds leading positions across all its business divisions. Its growth is the direct result of strong leadership, dedicated employees, financial prudence and commitment to good governance and quality. The Group presently has a market capitalisation of around RM7.33 billion and as of September 2024, the Group employed around 3,500 employees and had total assets of RM20.2 billion. For more information, visit www.ijm.com For media enquiries, please contact: Ms. Mandy Chen, Corporate Communications, at mandychen@ijm.com or + 60 12 607 6121 Mr. Shane Guha Thakurta, Investor Relations, at shane@ijm.com or + 60 3 7985 8041
- April 3, 2025Business
Bangkok Airways Wins "Climate Action Leader Award" at the UN Thailand
Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited has been honored with the prestigious “Climate Action Leader Award” in recognition of its leadership in climate and environmental sustainability. The award was presented by AFMA, an intergovernmental organization, in collaboration with Sustainism (stnsm.org). Mrs. Chanthip Thongkanya, Vice President of the Office of the President, along with the airline’s executive team, accepted the award from Mr. Narapat Kaewthong, Assistant Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, At the United Nations Thailand Headquarters recently. Recognized for Excellence in Climate and Environmental Sustainability At the Climate Action Forum Organized by AFMA in Collaboration with Sustainism Mrs. Chanthip Thongkanya, Vice President of the Office of the President at Bangkok Airways, expressed her pride in receiving this distinguished award. She extended her gratitude to the committee and all stakeholders for their continuous support in advancing environmental initiatives. As a key player in the aviation industry, Bangkok Airways is committed to sustainable business practices that positively impact climate and the environment. Under the “Low Carbon Skies by Bangkok Airways” campaign, the company has implemented measures to enhance fuel efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and develop related innovations. This includes plans for the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and other environmental initiatives across both its airline operations and airports. The collective efforts of its employees align with the company’s goal to achieve Net Zero Emissions . The “Climate Action Leader Award” is a prestigious international accolade that underscores an organization’s dedication to climate resilience and sustainability. The award specifically highlights contributions toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13: Climate Action . An esteemed panel of experts from AFMA and Sustainism , both locally and internationally, evaluated the award based on the positive impact and exemplary environmental practices demonstrated by the recipients. This recognition further solidifies Bangkok Airways’ role as a leader in driving sustainable development for the benefit of society and the environment.
- April 3, 2025Business
Japan Credit Rating Agency Affirms Thai Union’s Foreign Currency Issuer Credit Rating at A with Stable Outlook
Thai Union Group PCL, the world’s seafood leader, has had its foreign currency issuer credit rating affirmed at A with a stable outlook by the Japan Credit Rating Agency, Ltd. (JCR), reflecting the Company’s strong brand power and high earnings stability. This foreign currency issuer credit rating is the same level as the sovereign credit rating of Thailand from JCR. The local currency long-term issuer credit rating by JCR was also assigned at A with a stable outlook. JCR highlighted Thai Union continued growth, driven by its investments in high-value-added products and innovation. It further pointed to the Company’s seafood business potential, supported by extensive global production, procurement and marketing capabilities. In 2024, Thai Union’s performance recovered in line with JCR’s expectations, excluding expenses associated with the launch of the Company’s Strategy 2030 late last year. Strategy 2030 is an ambitious roadmap aimed at achieving significant growth, including increasing net sales to US$7.0 billion by 2030 and doubling earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) from approximately US$400 million to US$700-US$800 million. The strategy is central to Thai Union’s vision of becoming the world’s leading marine health and nutrition company. “JCR’s reaffirmation of our credit rating is a testament to Thai Union’s resilience and our strategic focus on sustainable growth,” said Thiraphong Chansiri, CEO at Thai Union Group. “We will build on our momentum by exploring new growth opportunities, maintaining our leadership in sustainability, and further establishing Thai Union as the world’s leading marine health and nutrition company.” JCR underscored Thai Union’s global diversification. In addition to owning well-known brands – such as Chicken of the Sea in the U.S. and John West and Petit Navire in Europe – the Company operates 13 processing facilities worldwide, including Thailand, the U.S., France, Seychelles, Poland and Vietnam. The ratings agency also noted that OEM contracts with major food companies, which account for over half of Thai Union’s sales, offer another stable source of revenue. In 2023, Thai Union secured a THB 11,485 million Sustainability-Linked financing package, marking the start of the second phase of Thai Union’s Blue Finance agenda. The Company aims to increase sustainability-linked finance to 75% of its long-term financing by 2025. Denominated in both Thai baht (THB) and U.S. dollars (USD) across three- and five-year tenors, the financing demonstrates how Thai Union’s commitment to ocean-focused sustainability initiatives continues to enable access to sustainable funding.
- April 3, 2025Food & Beverage
New era for Coles Liquor: nationwide Liquorland transformation begins
Coles Liquor Group has today announced the retailer will commence the national alignment of Vintage Cellars and First Choice Liquor Market under the much-loved Liquorland brand following a successful trial, which will transform its customer offer nationwide. Starting next month, the national roll out will see all Coles Liquor stores unified under the Liquorland brand: Liquorland, Liquorland Cellars and Liquorland Warehouse, with the purpose of delivering a consistent experience and greater value for customers, no matter where they shop. The new store formats will simplify the customer offer across 984 stores by aligning product range, promotions, Flybuys loyalty program, and omnichannel service - all underpinned by Liquorland’s new Price Match Promise1 . The 16-week pilot program – trialed at 14 selected stores in South Australia, Victoria and Queensland, demonstrated increased brand awareness and customer engagement, repeat visit and overall greater shopping satisfaction. Coles Liquor Chief Executive Michael Courtney said the announcement represented a significant milestone for the business by bringing together the best elements of all three brands across value, range and convenience. “This is the biggest transformation in the history of Coles Liquor Group, and we believe it will have a meaningful impact on how we serve customers the drinks they want, when they want them, and how we partner with suppliers to deliver value,” Michael said. “As we move towards a unified promotional strategy, we are strengthening our value proposition for customers with consistent and competitive pricing under one brand and one website. Customers will be able to benefit from the country’s most-loved rewards program – Flybuys, and access our Price Match Promise, which means if you see a better price at another retailer, we’ll match it. “In terms of range, we are bringing a more tailored and relevant drink selection from the three banners under one roof. This means we will be unlocking the best-selling premium drops from Vintage Cellars and great value drinks from First Choice Liquor Market, and making them more accessible to customers through Liquorland across the country. “The results of the pilot program exceeded our expectations across all measures. We were pleased to see brand awareness improve by 16% and found customers visited our stores more frequently, and 30% of customers who shopped at our pilot stores said they plan to shop with us more often compared to before the rebrand. “These results give us full confidence that uniting under the Liquorland brand is the way forward not just for us as a business but for our customers.” Around 160 Vintage Cellars and First Choice Liquor Market stores will be transformed as part of the national roll out, expected to be completed by end of 2025. The program will increase Liquorland’s footprint by 25%, with many of the stores located near or adjacent to a Coles supermarket. Since November 2024, Coles Liquor has converted 14 stores to Liquorland Cellars and Liquorland Warehouse, including nine stores in South Australia, three Vintage Cellars stores in Victoria and two First Choice Liquor Market stores in Queensland. The Liquorland pilot marked the beginning of the next phase in its transformation journey, which over the past five years has seen more than 670 stores revamped to the new Black & White format including a more spacious store layout, clearer in-store signage and a tailored range. Liquorland first launched in Australia in 1971 and currently has 818 stores across the country. For media enquiries, please contact Coles Media Line (03) 9829 5250 or media.relations@coles.com.au or media.relations@coles.com.au 1Show us a lower price on an identical stocked liquor item at a competitor in the same state, and Liquorland will match the price. Terms and exclusions apply, see below for details: Items in question must be identical. Competitor’s price must be available on the day, in the state of purchase and on items purchased in the same quantities. Competitor must have item in stock. Excludes online only offers, trade quotations, liquidations and clearance sales. We reserve the right to limit sales to reasonable retail quantities. Competitor’s current price must be verified. Competitor’s conditions may apply. Eg. Delivery fees, method of payment etc. Competitor’s premises must be within 10km of the Liquorland store in which you are purchasing.
- April 2, 2025Technology
Lunit Announces Partnership with the National Cancer Institute to Advance AI-Powered Biomarker Research
Lunit (KRX:328130.KQ), a leading provider of AI-powered solutions for cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, today announced a collaboration with the National Cancer Institute (NCI), part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), to explore innovative applications of AI in cancer research. This collaboration aims to advance research into the tumor microenvironment and immune phenotyping, analyzing NCI data to uncover insights that could drive personalized cancer care. Under the agreement, Lunit tools will be made available to NCI Center for Cancer Research (CCR) investigators, across NCI CCR’s portfolio of clinical trials. Lunit will analyze whole-slide images obtained from NCI’s clinical studies, using Lunit AI-powered biomarker technologies, including Lunit SCOPE® IO and Lunit SCOPE universal IHC. This broad collaboration will enable image-analysis AI to become a core part of cancer research practice. The two parties plan to jointly prepare publications, presentations, and reports. The primary objective of this partnership is to develop data-driven insights that can help personalize treatment approaches for cancer patients. By applying Lunit’s AI solutions across NCI’s extensive cancer research portfolio, the collaboration seeks to accelerate discoveries that optimize immunotherapy strategies, improve patient outcomes, and pave the way for more targeted cancer care. “This collaboration with the NCI is a testament to the power and potential of Lunit’s AI-driven solutions in advancing the frontier of cancer research,” said Brandon Suh, CEO of Lunit. “By applying our technologies across NCI’s unparalleled research expertise and clinical data, we aim to uncover meaningful insights that can transform cancer treatment and deliver more personalized care to patients worldwide. We are honored to work with one of the world’s leading cancer research institutions to tackle some of the toughest challenges in oncology.” About Lunit Founded in 2013, Lunit (KRX:328130.KQ) is a medical AI company on a mission to conquer cancer. Lunit harnesses AI-powered medical image analytics and biomarker analysis to ensure accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment for each cancer patient. The FDA-cleared Lunit INSIGHT suite for cancer screening serves over 4,800 hospitals and medical institutions across 55+ countries. Lunit clinical studies have been published in top journals, including the Journal of Clinical Oncology and the Lancet Digital Health , and presented at global conferences such as the ASCO and RSNA. Headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, with a network of offices worldwide, Lunit leads the global fight against cancer. Discover more at lunit.io.
- April 2, 2025Business
Lunit to Present AI Study on EGFR Mutation Prediction in NSCLC at AACR 2025 in Collaboration with AstraZeneca
Lunit (KRX:328130.KQ), a leading provider of AI-powered solutions for cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, will present a deep learning study on Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) mutation prediction in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) at the upcoming American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting 2025, held from April 25 to 30 in Chicago, Illinois. The study, which highlights the development and validation of the Lunit SCOPE Genotype Predictor, an AI-powered deep learning model capable of predicting EGFR mutations directly from hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)-stained tissue samples in NSCLC patients, will be presented in collaboration with AstraZeneca (LSE/STO/Nasdaq: AZN). EGFR mutation testing plays a crucial role in determining the best course of treatment for patients with NSCLC, yet many patients remain untested due to logistical and resource constraints, despite guideline recommendations. Existing AI models designed to predict mutations from pathology images have faced limitations in real-world clinical applications due to limited training data and lack of validation. Lunit and AstraZeneca’s collaborative study leveraged the largest and most diverse training dataset to date, consisting of more than 12,000 pathology slides (>4,500 EGFR-mutated and >7,500 wild-type) from NSCLC patients across multiple countries, including the US, China, and South Korea, to further develop and validate Lunit’s model. The AI model’s performance remained consistent across key clinical variables including specimen types, EGFR mutation subtypes, slide scanners, and scan magnifications, reinforcing its potential for real-world deployment in diverse clinical environments. The collaboration focuses on the development of the Lunit SCOPE Genotype Predictor, an AI-driven tool designed to rapidly and cost-effectively predict NSCLC driver mutations from H&E-stained tissue samples. “This study is a testament to the real-world potential of AI in precision oncology,” said Brandon Suh, CEO of Lunit. “By leveraging Lunit AI, we have demonstrated that routine pathology slides can serve as a powerful tool to predict EGFR mutations with high accuracy. This could help clinicians prioritize molecular testing for NSCLC patients, ensuring that patients receive targeted therapy without unnecessary delays. We are excited to showcase this breakthrough at AACR 2025, reinforcing our commitment to advancing AI-driven precision oncology in collaboration with AstraZeneca.” Join Us at AACR 2025 Visit Lunit at AACR 2025 Booth #2843 to learn more about this study and how AI is advancing precision oncology and improving patient outcomes. About Lunit Founded in 2013, Lunit (KRX:328130.KQ) is a medical AI company on a mission to conquer cancer. Lunit harnesses AI-powered medical image analytics and biomarker analysis to ensure accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment for each cancer patient. The FDA-cleared Lunit INSIGHT suite for cancer screening serves over 4,800 hospitals and medical institutions across 55+ countries. Lunit clinical studies have been published in top journals, including the Journal of Clinical Oncology and the Lancet Digital Health , and presented at global conferences such as the ASCO and RSNA. Headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, with a network of offices worldwide, Lunit leads the global fight against cancer. Discover more at lunit.io.
- April 2, 2025Travel & Leisure
HKBAC and Cathay Pacific expand JetLink as “wing-to-wing” transfer service takes off
Hong Kong is transforming the way travellers move between commercial and private aviation. Hong Kong Business Aviation Centre (HKBAC) and Cathay Pacific are proud to strengthen their collaboration on JetLink—a service designed to provide seamless connections for transiting passengers switching between Cathay Pacific’s First and Business class services and private jet travel. For transiting passengers, JetLink eliminates the inefficiencies of traditional airport transfers by streamlining the standard customs and immigration procedures typically required of inbound and outbound passengers. HKBAC, together with Cathay Pacific, provide a fully escorted, “wing-to-wing” transfer service on the airside, allowing passengers to enjoy an uninterrupted journey across the terminals, saving up to one-third of the transfer time while maintaining privacy, security, and control. “Wing-to-wing” transfer service: A new way of travel JetLink merges commercial and private aviation for efficient travel. As “wing-to-wing” transfer service gains popularity, passengers are discovering a new way of travel that provides a premium experience while maintaining flexibility, security, and time efficiency. "JetLink demonstrates how business aviation can complement commercial travel. Our commitment to JetLink aims to reinforce Hong Kong's status as a leading transit hub for business aviation while providing a personalized journey for our passengers. Leading executives of multinational corporations who have repeatedly used this service expressed satisfaction with their transit experiences in Hong Kong," said Vivien Lau, CEO of HKBAC. Cathay Pacific General Manager Airport Service Delivery Cheuk Lo added: “We are continuously exploring ways to further elevate the customer experience as part of our vision to become one of the world’s greatest service brands. We have seen increasing demand for a seamless, time-saving connection service among our premium customers. Through the ‘wing-to-wing’ transfer service offered by JetLink, our customers can experience the highest levels of service with Cathay Pacific and our partner HKBAC throughout their transit journey.” Hong Kong setting a global benchmark for seamless aviation Passengers can now enjoy unparalleled convenience and efficiency with JetLink’s new transfer options. For example, business executives flying from London to Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific can transfer directly to a private jet bound for Shanghai or Beijing upon arrival, avoiding unnecessary delays. Similarly, foreign investors arriving in Hong Kong from the Middle East can step directly from a private aircraft to Cathay Pacific’s First class cabin and head for Beijing, Tokyo or Paris, ensuring efficiency and discretion at every stage. With JetLink, passengers can save up to one-third of their transfer time, reducing the process from one hour and 15 minutes to approximately 45 minutes. By working together, HKBAC and Cathay Pacific are reshaping premium travel and setting a new industry standard that reflects the future of seamless “wing-to-wing” transfer service. About Cathay Pacific Premium full-service airline Cathay Pacific is the home carrier of Hong Kong with over seven decades of history, and is a founding member of the one world global alliance. Cathay also comprises the cargo division Cathay Cargo, low-cost carrier HK Express and its lifestyle business. Cathay is a member of the Swire Group and is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKSE). For more information, please visit www.cathaypacific.com . About HKBAC Hong Kong Business Aviation Centre (HKBAC) is Asia's premier business aviation hub at Hong Kong International Airport. Since 1998, HKBAC handles all arrival, departure, and transit business jets with comprehensive aircraft technical support and professional ground handling services. Recognized for unparalleled service excellence, HKBAC has been awarded "Best Asian FBO" by the Professional Pilot PRASE Survey for 17 consecutive years (2008-2024). With the terminal expansion completing in 2025, flight handling capacity will be doubled alongside fully upgraded facilities, further solidifying its position as one of the world's best fixed-base operators. For more information, please visit www.hkbac.com Hong Kong Business Aviation Centre CEO Vivien Lau (left) and Cathay Pacific General Manager Airport Service Delivery Cheuk Lo (right)
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