The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong-Tourism news

Huawei Releases the NG WAN White Paper to Fully Upgrade IP Bearer Networks and Drive New Growth for Carriers

BEIJING, March 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- During the Upperside World Congress 2026, Huawei hosted its IP Gala summit themed "Next-Generation WAN, Boosting New Growth for Carriers." At the summit, Huawei unveiled the white paper on Next-Generation (NG) WAN, with the WBBA, IPv6 Forum, and leading carriers present at the release ceremony. This paper provides a target IP networks for 2030, empowering carriers to build full-scope secure networks that guarantee user experience while driving revenue growth and operational efficiency. Global carriers, industry leaders, and standards organizations engaged in in-depth discussions on themes like multi-dimensional awareness, security & resilience, and network autonomy, working together to advance IP bearer networks toward Net5.5G. National Strategies and Industrial Advancements: Accelerating AI-Oriented Network Infrastructure Upgrades Carriers are leveraging AI capabilities—underpinned by IPv6 and SRv6 technologies—to unlock network potential, slash expenses, and boost operational performance. Latif Ladid, President of the IPv6 Forum, highlighted how different countries are implementing strategies focused on AI sovereign clouds, security & resilience, and quantum security—setting the stage for carriers to develop more advanced infrastructure networks. The IPv6 Forum is working with global industry partners to promote in-depth integration of cutting-edge technologies such as IPv6/SRv6, network autonomy, and application awareness with AI. NG WAN White Paper: Providing a Roadmap for Building Target IP Networks In the Internet of Agent era,the integration of intelligence and networks is fueling the evolution of IP networks toward more efficient and intelligent architectures. John Cai, President of Router Domain in Huawei's Data Communication Product Line, said in his opening speech that NG WANs should be constructed across three critical pillars—multi-dimensional awareness, security & resilience, and network autonomy—to help carriers accelerate network monetization and slash costs while improving efficiency. This newly released NG WAN white paper delivers a comprehensive WAN construction for 2030 target network, outlining key features, target architectures, value scenarios, breakthrough technologies, and network construction specifications—equipping global carriers with strategic insights as they embark on network evolution and innovation journeys. John Cai, President of Router Domain, Huawei Data Communication Product Line, delivering a speech Pioneering Carriers' Best Practices: Setting Benchmarks for Network Evolution Mehmet Durmus, IP/MPLS Core and Data Center Networks Associate Director of Turkcell, Türkiye, shared the experience in implementing NG WAN. He noted that emerging innovations like 5G/5G-A and intelligent computing put increasing strain on traditional networks. In response, Turkcell has pioneered the use of cutting-edge solutions—lossless RDMA, AI-empowered dynamic energy saving, and fiber health care—achieving groundbreaking advancements in intelligent computing, energy saving, and intelligent O&M. These efforts set a benchmark for next-generation IP bearer networks. Huawei NGWAN: Helping Carriers Build AI-Centric, Converged WAN-Service with Network-computing-security integration services Xu Huan, Vice President of Router Domain in Huawei's Data Communication Product Line, delved into the fundamentals, key scenarios, and business value of NG WAN. He explained that an NG WAN will be AI-centric, featuring an all-service, fully converged network architecture that integrates network, computing, and security. The network will be built on a green ultra-broadband foundation using 400GE/800GE technologies, and provide multi-dimensional awareness capabilities. All of this will help to ensure the experience of VIP users and services, increase the ARPU and DOU, and ensure always-on services through full-scope security & resilience. Additionally, the network will leverage agents to enhance network autonomy. At the summit, technical experts shared innovative technologies and practices of service awareness, targeted marketing, full-scope security & resilience, and intelligent network management in home broadband scenarios. Moving ahead, Huawei will continue to strengthen partnerships with global carriers and industry leaders, unlocking the immense potential of networks while driving sustainable growth for carriers.

2026-03-24

Connecting the Global Travel Industry: YeePay Builds a Bridge Between China and International Aviation Markets

BERLIN, March 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- From March 3-5, 2026, ITB Berlin, the world's leading travel trade show, marked its landmark 60th anniversary, gathering over 5,600 exhibitors from 166 countries and regions, nearly 97,000 industry professionals, and 400+ experts sharing the latest global travel trends across 200+ forums. China's travel market remains a core global growth engine, with 697 million inbound and outbound trips in 2025 and outbound travel projected to top 220 million in 2026. Booming two-way cross-border travel has made robust, compliant cross-border transaction capabilities essential for global airlines, OTAs and travel partners. At the event, YeePay unveiled its one-stop Global Corporate Account transaction solution. With 20+ years of deep expertise in China's aviation and travel sector, YeePay partners with all Chinese airlines and nearly 10,000 OTAs, operating a secure, compliant cross-border payment network spanning 200+ countries and regions and supporting 100+ currencies. This unified, fully digital solution addresses core industry pain points for both Chinese airlines expanding globally, and international airlines, OTAs and travel enterprises entering China. It delivers a complete end-to-end transaction workflow covering account opening, funding, payment, reconciliation and settlement, resolving challenges from slow cross-border settlement, high FX costs and complex compliance, to local market access barriers. Multiple international carriers at ITB Berlin expressed interest in expanded cooperation, with a European airline partner noting the solution streamlined its compliant access to China's ecosystem and accelerated market expansion. As ITB Berlin's 60-year legacy mirrors the global travel industry's shift to full interconnectivity, YeePay – a China-rooted, global-serving transaction provider – empowers overseas aviation and travel players with reduced cross-border costs, enhanced capital efficiency and simplified international settlement, to fuel the next phase of global travel growth.

2026-03-24

Lazada Celebrates Its 14th Birthday with Two Guinness World Records™ and Birthday Sale

Lazada kicked off the celebration for its 14th birthday with the Lazada Run Wellness Festival in six markets, which brought together over 5,500 participants. On 22 March, participants broke two Guinness World Records™ with a 2,728-record count for the Largest Toast with Soft Drinks (Multiple Venues) and a 2,625-record count for Most People Unwrapping Presents Simultaneously (Multiple Venues) across Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines. The festival marked the start of Lazada's Birthday Sale, happening from 24 March (8PM) to 27 March in Singapore, featuring exclusive deals and vouchers SINGAPORE, March 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Lazada, Southeast Asia's leading eCommerce platform, marked its 14th birthday by bringing communities together through the Lazada Run Wellness Festival in March, alongside the launch of its highly anticipated Lazada Birthday Sale. Showcasing Lazada's position as Southeast Asia's platform of global brands, the event partnered with over 140 brands across Southeast Asia, including Shiseido, Optimum Nutrition, Garnier, Philips, Samsung, L'Occitane, Sulwhasoo, and Anessa. Lazada celebrated the occasion in Indonesia (1 March), Malaysia (14 March), and with concurrent events in Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines on 22 March. In Singapore, the Lazada Run Wellness Festival at Marina Barrage gathered over 450 runners and fitness enthusiasts for a shared experience that extended beyond the digital marketplace. The event created a vibrant space for participants to connect and celebrate together, with activities such as community-led runs and curated wellness activities. The event also brought together a strong network of partners across Lazada's ecosystem, including leading LazMall global brands such as ZenYum, Sonos, Philips, Soundcore, SKG, Dr. Rock, DJI, EHPLABS, Sulhwasoo, Innisfree, adidas, Joyvio, Abso, alongside prominent local run clubs such as Singapore Runners, Running Department and Urban Milers. A Record-Breaking Celebration, Brought to Life by Communities and Brands Adding to the excitement of the birthday celebrations, Lazada made history with two Guinness World Records™, uniting over 2,900 participants simultaneously across Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines on 22 March. Participants across four venues came together to break world records for Largest Toast with Soft Drinks (Multiple Venues) with a 2,728-record count, and Most People Unwrapping Presents Simultaneously (Multiple Venues) with a 2,625-record count, turning the occasion into a shared celebration across markets. The festival was brought to life with the participation of Lazada's brand partners, who engaged participants with different experience zones set up around the festival grounds. "Lazada's 14th birthday is not just a celebration of our journey, but of the communities that have grown with us across the region," said Marcus Chew, Chief Marketing Officer, Lazada Group. "It was remarkable to see how everyone rallied together to make this milestone such an exciting moment. Through initiatives like the Lazada Run Wellness Festival, we would like to continue creating more opportunities to engage our users beyond transactions, bringing together global brands, partners and communities in meaningful and memorable ways." Celebrating 14 Years with Rewards for Shoppers In tandem with the celebrations, Lazada Singapore will be kicking off its Birthday Sale from 24 March (8PM) to 27 March, offering shoppers a host of exclusive deals and rewards. The campaign brings together top global brands and exciting promotions as part of Lazada's annual birthday celebration. Customers can enjoy up to 90% off LazFlash Deals, an additional 15% off store vouchers, as well as exclusive vouchers worth $20 off with a minimum spend of $60 from https://lzd.co/bdaysalevouchersSG As Lazada's anniversary celebrations continue with its Birthday Sale, the platform continues to evolve beyond a transactional marketplace, strengthening its role as a platform that connects buyers and sellers while fostering meaningful communities through shared experiences, both online and offline. For more information on the Lazada Birthday Sale, visit the app and follow Lazada on Instagram and Facebook for the latest updates and deals. About Lazada Group Lazada Group is Southeast Asia's pioneer eCommerce platform. For the last 14 years, Lazada has been accelerating progress in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam through commerce and technology. Today, a thriving local ecosystem links about 160 million active users to more than one million actively selling sellers every month, who are transacting safely and securely via trusted payments channels and Lazada Wallet, receiving parcels through a homegrown logistics network that has become the largest in the region.

2026-03-24

Sobot Wins the Partner Recognition Award at Meta Partner Summit 2026

Driving Customer Service and Marketing Success with Sobot's WhatsApp Solution SINGAPORE, March 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Sobot attended Meta Partner Summit 2026 and won the "2025 Partner Recognition Award". During the summit, Sobot shared its business practices on Meta products like WhatsApp and Messenger, and explored new directions for collaboration with Meta. Sobot attended Meta Partner Summit 2026 and won the “2025 Partner Recognition Award” Sobot-Meta Collaboration Drives WhatsApp Customer Engagement Across the Entire Journey At the core of Sobot's collaboration with Meta is WhatsApp, a flagship product of Meta. With over 3 billion monthly active users worldwide, WhatsApp has become a mainstream messaging platform for daily communications across the globe. Leveraging its mature products, advanced technologies and global customer base, Sobot has become an official WhatsApp BSP (Business Solution Provider) authorized by Meta. And 3 key features set Sobot apart from other BSPs. Ensuring Customer Support and Marketing at Scale on a United Platform One of the key reasons behind Sobot winning the "Partner Recognition Award" lies in its comprehensive WhatsApp customer contact solution. It supports businesses to manage both marketing and customer service interactions on the platform. Sobot assists companies in registering WhatsApp Business Accounts, enabling them to send bulk messages for various business scenarios while ensuring compliance and stability. These include marketing messages for promotional campaigns, recommendations and event invitations, utility messages like delivery notifications and appointment reminders, as well as authentication messages like OTP and account verification. This enables businesses to proactively contact customers, increasing communication efficiency and driving growth. In addition, Sobot integrates common customer service capabilities like live chat, voice, chatbot and AI Agent. These functions can be embedded into companies' own apps or websites, and seamlessly integrated with WhatsApp Business Accounts. Among them, Sobot's AI Agent is particularly recognized by businesses for its compatibility with WhatsApp messaging format, its strong capability in addressing complex tasks, and its impressive independent resolution rate of over 70%. In this way, businesses can manage customer service and marketing interactions on WhatsApp in a united platform. Offering Operational Assistance Throughout Deployment and Daily Use Beyond delivering products, Sobot further helps businesses in deployment and daily operations. Enterprises can enjoy professional consultation, technical support, and SLA services jointly provided by both Sobot and Meta. From marketing strategy and security compliance to account registration and verification, from message template setup to messaging rule configuration, Sobot's experts provide continuous and refined guidance across the whole customer lifecycle. Delivering Scenario-Based Solutions for Different Industries Another highlight of Sobot's WhatsApp solution is its scenario-based design, allowing businesses to get tailored solutions to meet their specific needs in different industries. For example, in the delivery industry, Sobot integrates WhatsApp and live chat SDK into the delivery companies' own apps, making it convenient for couriers to send WhatsApp utility messages and communicate with customers directly within the delivery App. In the gaming industry, Sobot helps companies connect players' WhatsApp accounts with their in-game accounts, sending bulk messages like new game promotions, user reactivation, and top-up guidance accordingly. Also, agents of gaming companies can contact VIP users via live chat on WhatsApp. J&T Express Witnesses 35% Higher Delivery Success with Sobot WhatsApp Solution J&T Express, a leading global logistics and express delivery provider operating across Southeast Asia and the Middle East, once faced challenges in timely customer communication, address changes and cash‑on‑delivery coordination. All these issues directly impact delivery efficiency and customer satisfaction. To address these challenges, J&T partnered with Sobot to transform its customer contact process with Sobot's WhatsApp Business solution. Sobot integrated the delivery App with Google Maps and instant messaging SDK, allowing real‑time address confirmation and seamless communication between couriers and recipients. Also, Sobot helped J&T Express register the WhatsApp Business Account, so that J&T Express can send bulk utility messages for delivery notifications without being banned. The results were dramatic: J&T achieved a 35% increase in one‑time delivery success, a 50% reduction in communication costs, and a 40% improvement in cash‑on‑delivery collection efficiency. In addition, Sobot's WhatsApp solution has also benefited SHEIN, Lilith Games, OPPO, Luckin Coffee and more, supporting customer interactions across a wide range of industries on WhatsApp. Deepening Collaboration with Meta to Elevate WhatsApp Business Solutions "Meta Partner Summit provides an excellent opportunity for us to exchange ideas with Meta and further strengthen our collaboration." said Yi Xu, CEO of Sobot. "And receiving the Partner Recognition Award is also a strong acknowledgement of Sobot's capabilities and contributions." Looking ahead, Sobot will continue to closely work with Meta to enhance its products, solutions and services, bringing greater value to businesses in WhatsApp customer contact and engagement. For more information, please visit https://www.sobot.io/.

2026-03-24

Furniture China Announces Landmark 2026 Edition: Where Design Creates Business

Organizers: CNFA and IM Sinoexpo SHANGHAI, March 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Furniture China, Asia's premier furniture trade event, has announced its landmark 2026 edition, set to transform the industry landscape with a bold new strategic vision. Scheduled for 7-11 September 2026, the event—together with Maison Shanghai—will span 350,000 m² across 50 halls in Pudong, offering global professionals five days of product innovation, design excellence and international business opportunities. With strengthened international participation and curated zone planning, Furniture China 2026 (8-11 September, SNIEC) expands beyond its traditional core of upholstered and dining furniture. New dedicated areas will spotlight a larger Outdoor Furniture Hall featuring stylish, functional designs, alongside a spectacular Commercial Contract Furniture section presenting premium office solutions from leading brands and emerging exhibitors. Co-located FMC Premium China (FMP) will again unite manufacturers and material innovators, showcasing advanced techniques and cutting-edge design that harmonize aesthetics with functionality. "After 30 years of serving the global furniture community, we're entering a new chapter with sharper strategic focus and market responsiveness," said Mrs. Stella Zhong, CEO and Head of Furniture China. "Our 2026 edition is a dynamic platform designed to anticipate industry shifts, enables export trade with supply-chain excellence and create unprecedented opportunities for international buyers." Industry confidence remains strong, with 90% of key exhibitors already rebooked, including several international and domestic brands—Ashley, AICO, HTL, AHOME, ENOVA, Fursys, and more— make their return to the exhibition this year. Maison Shanghai 2026 Unveils New Categories and Design Focus Marking a new era of evolution, Maison Shanghai 2026 (7-11 September, SWEECC) continues to champion design values that elevate home interiors and transform lifestyles. Covering 80,000 m², the show introduces Kitchen & Bath and Smart Home categories, alongside curated theme exhibitions developed with global design communities. Major awards will further bridge Chinese creativity with international markets. Under the theme "Design ∞", four dedicated halls—Design Solutions, Design Business, Design Highland, and Design Living—will present a curated mix of lifestyle exhibits, boutique collections and cultural crafts. A series of design forums will complement the displays, delivering a comprehensive sourcing and networking experience for buyers, distributors, designers, and media worldwide. Empower Your Visit The DTS and official app deliver a seamless registration and smart tools like LeadGrab, highly bridging international buyers and exhibitors. Save the dates! 7-11 September 2026, at SNIEC and SWEECC, Pudong.Pre-register online or via app.Apply to exhibit.

2026-03-24

RITFIT Lands in Germany with Professional, Compact Strength Training Solutions for Urban Living

DUESSELDORF, Germany, March 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- RITFIT, a pioneering U.S. home fitness brand and a platform of RITFITNESS INC. dedicated to empowering individuals with high-quality and accessible equipment, officially makes its entry into the German market, one of Europe's largest and most professional fitness markets. Specializing in compact, professional-grade strength equipment, RITFIT has chosen Germany as its strategic entry point for European expansion in 2026. With a highly mature fitness culture and rigorous standards, Germany offers the ideal proving ground for engineering excellence, reliability, and long-term value. In 2024, the country recorded approximately 11.7 million gym members and €5.8 billion ($6.88 billion) in industry revenue. Boasting a fitness penetration rate of 14%, which is remarkably above the European average, Germany continues to lead the continent in both membership volume and revenue growth. RITFIT's Germany launch will include a localized online platform, real-world training scenarios presentations, and collaborations through fitness exhibitions (FIBO), city events and local sports clubs (Sportvereine) as well as the local coaching networks, an integrated approach to establish a long-term market entry model centered on credibility rather than short-term promotional development. German consumers take a highly rational, professional approach to fitness equipment, prioritizing durability, real-world performance, and long-term functionality over fleeting trends or flashy marketing. With average living space around 47m² per capita—significantly less than the U.S. (70m²)—space efficiency becomes a decisive factor in purchasing decisions. For RITFIT, this compact urban environment plays directly to the brand's core strengths: multi-functional design and space-efficient engineering. Germany's high-barrier, quality-driven market demands rigorous evaluation of specifications, steel quality, structural integrity, and safety—precisely the kind of "engineering-first" market where RITFIT excels. "Germany is not a trend-driven market—it is a credibility-driven one," said Ashley, Marketing Specialist at RITFIT. "Entering Germany means entering one of Europe's most demanding strength training environments. If our systems can earn trust here, they can earn trust anywhere. This launch isn't about short-term expansion, but about building long-term legitimacy in a market that values engineering quality, space efficiency, and real performance." Additionally, there are approximately 85,000 to 90,000 registered sports clubs (Sportvereine) in Germany, with a combined membership exceeding 27 million. Roughly one in three Germans has participated in a sports club at some point in their lives, underscoring the high level of trust placed in these training institutions. RITFIT's strategic entry into Germany will help drive the adoption of compact, gym-capable strength training solutions across Europe, providing consumers with professional-grade equipment built to last and adapted to urban living. "Our name is inspired by the combination of the words 'Right' and 'Fitness'. RITFITwas born from a belief in both the right to control one's fitness journey and the right choice of quality equipment. We're about making the right tools that empower you to build your ideal lifestyle and fitness routine with confidence. " explained RITFIT Founder Yann Lin, who come from a variety of backgrounds—from car design to IT engineering and furniture design. "But we're all passionate about creating convenient, quality products for fitness at home. Starting in Delaware in 2015, we noticed a need for beginner-friendly, reasonably-priced equipment. So, we partnered with experienced fitness manufacturers to offer a product line that initially focused on yoga, Pilates, and dumbbells. With our commitment to quality and a drive for strength, we expanded into strength training gear, building a team that includes ex-athletes, nutritionists, ergonomic experts, and sports pedagogy professors. Many of us are also moms, dads, pet owners, and home gym users, so we understand the importance of safety and professionalism in our equipment." About RITFIT RITFIT was born from a belief in the right to control one's fitness journey and make the right choice in quality equipment. Founded in Delaware in 2015, the brand has grown from offering beginner-friendly yoga and Pilates gear to becoming an innovative force in strength training. With a team that includes ex-athletes, ergonomic experts, and dedicated home gym users, RITFIT holds over 60patents and is trusted by more than 300,000 customers to make home fitness simple, strong, and effective. For more information, please follow RITFIT on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586121628607), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ritfit.de/) and Office Website(https://ritfitness.de/)

2026-03-24

Agoda Recommends Asia's Underwater Attractions for Adventure Seekers

SINGAPORE, March 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital travel platform Agoda has revealed its recommendations of Asia's remarkable diving destinations, where coral reefs, rare marine species, and dramatic underwater landscapes attract divers from around the world. As adventure travel continues to gain popularity, more travelers are adding scuba diving and snorkeling to their itineraries to experience Asia's rich marine biodiversity firsthand. From remote reefs to unique underwater formations, Asia offers diverse diving experiences for both beginners and seasoned divers. Many of these sites sit within the Coral Triangle, one of the most biodiverse marine regions on the planet. Agoda has curated a list of standout diving destinations across Asia that offer memorable underwater encounters. Sipadan Island, Malaysia - Sipadan Island is widely regarded as one of the world's premier dive sites. Formed by living corals growing on top of an extinct volcanic cone, the island is surrounded by thriving marine ecosystems. Divers regularly encounter sea turtles, barracudas, and reef sharks, while dramatic wall dives descend along a steep drop-off reaching depths of around 600 meters. Raja Ampat, Indonesia - Located in the heart of the Coral Triangle, Raja Ampat is known for its extraordinary marine biodiversity. The region is home to more than 1,500 species of fish and over 600 species of coral. Its remote location helps preserve pristine reef systems, making it one of the most sought-after destinations for both diving and snorkeling. Similan Islands, Thailand - The Similan Islands are famous for their clear waters and striking underwater rock formations. Divers explore granite boulders, swim-through passages, and coral gardens, while encountering marine life such as manta rays and whale sharks. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, Philippines - A UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Sulu Sea, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is one of the Philippines' most protected marine areas. Accessible mainly by liveaboard boats, the remote reef system offers encounters with sharks, manta rays, and large schools of pelagic fish in a pristine environment. Komodo National Park, Indonesia - Known for its powerful currents and nutrient-rich waters, Komodo National Park offers some of Southeast Asia's most dynamic dive sites. Drift dives reveal vibrant coral reefs and large marine species, while the surrounding islands are also home to the famous Komodo dragon. Malapascua Island, Philippines - Malapascua Island has become globally known for its regular sightings of thresher sharks. Divers gather at Monad Shoal at dawn, where these elusive sharks visit cleaning stations. The area also offers night dives and macro photography opportunities among colorful reef habitats. Andaman Islands, India - The Andaman Islands offer a mix of coral reefs, underwater cliffs, and historic shipwrecks. Clear waters and relatively untouched marine environments make the islands appealing for scuba diving and freediving. Yonaguni Monument, Japan - Off the coast of Yonaguni Island lies one of the ocean's most debated formations. The Yonaguni Monument features massive underwater stone structures that resemble terraces and steps. Whether natural or man-made, the site attracts divers intrigued by its scale and mystery. Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda shared, "Many travelers come to Asia for its beaches, but beneath the sea there are ecosystems that are just as remarkable. From coral reefs to rare marine encounters, these locations offer experiences that stay with travelers long after the trip ends. At Agoda, we are passionate about helping travelers discover such wonders and create unforgettable memories, with great deals across our wide range of accommodation, flights, and activities." For those planning their next diving getaway, Agoda offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same booking. Discover the best deals on Agoda's mobile app and start planning your next underwater adventure today.

2026-03-24

Interior Design Trends Singapore Homeowners Are Embracing in 2026

SINGAPORE, March 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As Singapore homeowners continue to invest in improving their living spaces, interior design trends are evolving to reflect changing lifestyles, practical needs, and aesthetic preferences. From space-saving solutions to personalised design concepts, homeowners today are prioritising both functionality and comfort when renovating their homes. Industry professionals note that renovation projects in Singapore are increasingly influenced by lifestyle shifts, remote work arrangements, and the desire for homes that provide both relaxation and productivity. Interior design firms such as The Alchemists Design, a Singapore-based interior design and renovation company, have observed several emerging trends shaping residential interiors in the coming year. 1. Space-Optimised Layouts for HDB Living With many Singaporeans living in HDB flats, space optimisation remains one of the most important aspects of interior design. Homeowners are increasingly focusing on layouts that maximise functionality without compromising aesthetics. Open-concept layouts, built-in storage solutions and multi-functional furniture are becoming popular choices for homeowners looking to make the most of limited space. Thoughtful carpentry designs and custom storage features allow homeowners to maintain a clean and organised environment while improving everyday convenience. 2. Minimalist and Clutter-Free Interiors Minimalism continues to influence interior design trends in Singapore. Clean lines, neutral colour palettes and simple furniture arrangements are increasingly preferred by homeowners who want calm and uncluttered living spaces. This design approach not only enhances visual appeal but also improves functionality by reducing unnecessary items and creating a more spacious atmosphere. Interior designers have also observed growing interest in Scandinavian-inspired interiors, which emphasise simplicity, natural lighting and practical design elements. 3. Personalised Design Concepts Rather than relying solely on standard renovation packages, many homeowners are now seeking personalised interior design solutions that reflect their lifestyle and personality. Custom carpentry, tailored storage systems and unique design themes allow homeowners to create spaces that better suit their daily routines. According to interior design professionals, personalised design planning can also help address specific needs such as work-from-home setups, family-friendly layouts and improved storage capacity. 4. Durable and Sustainable Materials Material selection has become an important consideration for homeowners who want their renovation investment to last over time. Durable materials that are easy to maintain are increasingly preferred, especially for frequently used spaces such as kitchens and living areas. Sustainability is also becoming a factor in design decisions. Homeowners are exploring environmentally friendly materials, energy-efficient lighting and wood products that meet lower formaldehyde emission standards. These choices not only contribute to healthier living environments but also improve long-term durability. 5. Practical Storage Solutions Storage planning remains one of the most common concerns among homeowners renovating HDB flats. Designers are increasingly incorporating hidden storage, vertical shelving and built-in cabinetry to maximise available space. Practical storage planning helps homeowners maintain tidy interiors while ensuring that everyday items remain easily accessible. Interior design firms emphasise that effective storage solutions should be planned early during the design phase rather than added as an afterthought. Balancing Design Aesthetics with Everyday Living While design inspiration often comes from social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, professionals advise homeowners to balance aesthetic preferences with practical considerations. A visually appealing home should also support everyday activities, whether it involves family living, entertaining guests or working from home. Singapore-based interior design firm The Alchemists Design highlights that successful renovation projects often combine creative design concepts with practical planning to ensure that spaces remain functional and comfortable over time. The firm undertakes both residential and commercial interior design projects, including HDB flats, condominiums, landed properties and commercial spaces, helping clients transform their ideas into well-designed environments. In addition, the company offers HDB BTO and resale renovation packages for homeowners seeking practical, no-frills renovation solutions, alongside fully customised design services. Creating Spaces That Reflect Modern Lifestyles As Singapore's built environment continues to evolve, interior design trends are increasingly shaped by the needs of modern homeowners and businesses. From efficient space planning to personalised layouts and durable materials, these trends reflect a growing emphasis on creating spaces that support both lifestyle needs and long-term functionality. With thoughtful planning and the guidance of experienced interior design professionals, property owners can create environments that are not only visually appealing but also practical for everyday use. About The Alchemists Design The Alchemists Design is a Singapore-based interior design and renovation company specialising in both residential and commercial projects, including HDB flats, condominiums, landed homes and commercial spaces. The firm provides a range of services from customised interior design solutions to practical renovation packages for HDB BTO and resale flats. With a focus on functional design, quality workmanship and attentive customer service, The Alchemists Design helps clients create spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and suited to their everyday needs. For more information, visit:https://thealchemistsdesign.com/

2026-03-24

SMARTIES™ Awards 2026 Call for Entries, Celebrating Marketing That Drives Real Business Impact

SINGAPORE, March 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Marketing + Media Alliance (MMA) proudly announces the opening of entries for the 2026 SMARTIES™ Awards, the premier marketing awards program that honors trailblazing brands, agencies, and marketers driving innovation and business impact. SMARTIES™ celebrate marketing that drives growth, strengthens brand connections, and pushes the boundaries of innovation across the global marketing ecosystem. SMARTIES™ Awards 2026 Call for Entries, Celebrating Marketing That Drives Real Business Impact As marketing continues to evolve through the integration of technology, creativity, data, and media, the SMARTIES™ framework has been updated for 2026 to better reflect how today marketing organizations operate and how impactful work is delivered today. Continuing its mission to recognize marketing that drives growth, inspires innovation, and shapes the future of the industry, SMARTIES™ 2026 ensures the full spectrum of advance marketing excellence is celebrated. Critically, the same channels and categories will be available across all SMARTIES™ programs globally positioning the awards as a unified benchmark for marketing excellence while allowing regions to highlight the work that best represents their markets. SMARTIES™ 2026 ChannelsThe program is organized into four key channels representing the pillars of marketing excellence today: Purpose Driven MarketingCampaigns that leverage the power of brands to drive meaningful societal and cultural impact, advancing causes such as sustainability, diversity, and inclusion. Impact MarketingCampaigns that deliver measurable business outcomes by strengthening brand relationships, enhancing customer experiences, and driving growth. Media & GrowthExcellence in media strategy and execution, demonstrating how integrated media ecosystems effectively reach, engage, and grow audiences. Creative & Innovation ImpactBreakthrough marketing powered by creativity, data, and emerging technologies to create new forms of brand engagement. "Asia Pacific continues to be one of the most dynamic and innovative marketing regions in the world. The diversity of this region - its cultures, consumers, and digital ecosystems - means marketers here are constantly pioneering new approaches to drive genuine business impact. SMARTIES™ Asia Pacific exists to surface that innovation, benchmark it against the best in the world, and turn it into the learning that elevates the entire industry. The work coming out of this region deserves that platform," says Rohit Dadwal, CEO of MMA APAC & Global Head of SMARTIES™ Worldwide. Beyond the Trophy: Industry Recognition & Global RankingsWinning a SMARTIES™ Award provides more than prestige. Awarded campaigns will be featured in MMA SMARTIES Business Impact Index, RECMA, and the WARC Media 100 Ranking, reinforcing their influence and credibility across the industry. Showcase Your Marketing ExcellenceSubmit to SMARTIES™ 2026 Today! Key Details for 2026 SMARTIES™ Entries On time Deadline: Jul 9, 2026 Awards & Honors: Gold, Silver, and Bronze winners in each category; top honors include Best in Show, Juror's Choice Award of the Year, Most Resilient Brand of the Year, Advertiser of the Year, Brand of the Year, Publisher of the Year, Enabling Technology Company of the Year, Media Agency of the Year, Creative Agency of the Year, Independent Agency of the Year, Holding Agency Company of the Year, Agency Network of the Year (Regional /Global award) and Specialist Agency of the Year Judging Panel: Senior brand marketers and industry leaders will evaluate campaigns based on innovation, creativity, and measurable impact. Entry Levels: SMARTIES™ X Global: The pinnacle of marketing achievement, recognizing the best campaigns on a worldwide scale. Regional SMARTIES™ Awards – Honoring the top marketing talent and innovations across Asia Pacific National SMARTIES™ Awards – Spotlighting the best campaigns in Cambodia | China | India | Indonesia | Philippines | Thailand | Vietnam Marketers, agencies, and brands are encouraged to submit their best work and gain industry-wide recognition. About the Marketing + Media Alliance (MMA)The Marketing + Media Alliance (MMA) is the global, non-profit community of Chief Marketing Officers and senior marketing leaders advancing marketers' ability to create value. Led by CMOs and supported by the entire ecosystem at the governance level — including brands, media, agencies, consultancies, AdTech, and MarTech — MMA develops evidence-based models, frameworks, and tools validated through multi-year, multi-million-dollar Think Tanks and Labs. 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2026-03-24

PlasmaLeap Funding Shows Appetite for Safeguarding Fertiliser Supply

Industry-aligned local strategic investors including GRDC, Hort Innovation, GrainCorp and Agnition Ventures all joined recent Series A round Australian farmers face soaring fertiliser prices as events such as Middle East conflict curtail supply PlasmaLeap technology reduces exposure to price shocks and supply disruptions, while lowering emissions SYDNEY, March 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- PlasmaLeap Technologies, the Australian company pioneering zero-emissions production of ammonia and nitric acid, said its recent A$30 million ($21 million) fundraising shows strong support from leading Australian agribusinesses and industry organisations for technology that can safeguard fertiliser supply. The Series A round attracted investment from Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), Hort Innovation, and GrainCorp through funds managed in partnership with Artesian, as well as New Zealand's Agnition Ventures (Corporate VC of Ravensdown Co-operative). Gates Foundation, Investible, Yara Growth Ventures (The VC unit of Yara International), UniSuper and Twynam also participated. PlasmaLeap, which was spun out of the University of Sydney, has developed a patented reactor that can produce ammonia and nitrate – key ingredients in fertiliser - using only air, water and renewable electricity. Fertiliser prices have leapt following the start of the war in the Middle East, which supplies 45% of the world's traded nitrogen fertilizer, with approximately one third of globally traded fertilisers passing through the Strait of Hormuz. "The conflict in the Gulf has highlighted the risks to nitrogen fertiliser supply and the very real risks to farmers – and consumers – from price shocks," PlasmaLeap CEO and co-founder Frere Byrne said. "Anecdotally, we're hearing that lack of diesel is affecting planting decisions, while local fertiliser supplies are quickly being exhausted. Our technology removes some of that risk by enabling farmers to produce fertiliser themselves, which has crucial benefits in terms of derisking supply chains, and reducing emissions." GRDC Managing Director Nigel Hart said technologies that improve fertiliser supply resilience and reduce emissions were strategically important for the Australian grains sector. "PlasmaLeap's approach to decentralised nitrogen production has the potential to strengthen supply chains while supporting more sustainable farming systems. GRDC is pleased to support the continued development and evaluation of this technology for Australian growers," Mr Hart said. GrainCorp Strategy and Ventures Manager Zack Atlas said: "At GrainCorp Ventures, we're committed to investing in innovative technologies that deliver value for growers while improving the sustainability and resilience of agricultural supply chains. PlasmaLeap's clean, decentralised fertiliser technology has the potential to help growers of all sizes lower emissions, reduce costs, and drive meaningful decarbonisation efforts." Anthony Kachenko, General Manager - Production & Sustainability R&D at Hort Innovation, said the investment reflects the role of innovation in strengthening grower resilience and sustainability. "Access to reliable, affordable fertiliser is critical for horticulture growers, particularly as input costs and supply chain pressures continue to rise," Kachenko said. "Technologies like PlasmaLeap's, which enable on‑farm and localised production using renewable energy, have the potential to improve supply security while also reducing emissions - supporting both productivity and long‑term sustainability outcomes for Australian growers." This round demonstrates cross-sectorial backing for world-leading technology tackling pressing national agriculture needs, and evidences a growing pool of local industry-aligned capital with tailored-strategic mandates suitable to fund industry growth and transformation. Proceeds from the raising will be used to progress first-of-a-kind fertiliser hubs in NSW and Tasmania, expand field trials and further develop PlasmaLeap's core technology. Longer term opportunities for the technology beyond fertiliser include sustainable fuels and energy systems. About PlasmaLeap: PlasmaLeap designs, manufactures, and distributes the world's most advanced zero-emissions modular chemical reactors for hard-to-abate industries including agriculture, energy, and transport. Our mission is to build accessible, sustainable technology for global fuel and chemical production. Headquartered in Sydney, PlasmaLeap's state-of-the-art chemical plants are disrupting the chemical sector, using only air, water and electricity to create valuable fuels, fertilisers, and industrial chemicals with marked-leading energy performance and production rates. PlasmaLeap is a grant recipient of The Gates Foundation, the 2025 winner of SVG Thrive, a finalist in Petronas Future Tech 4.0, and a 2024 Australian nominee for the Earthshot prize.

2026-03-24