Vestas supplies V117-4.2 MW(TM) turbines to MHI Vestas for Akita Noshiro Offshore Wind Farm Project
Trip.com Group Announces Entry into Facility Agreement
Muong Thanh Group Sponsors 4-star Standard Rooms for Bach Mai Hospital & Supports 100 Tons of Rice to Help the Prevention of COVID-19
Singapore Biennale 2019 Wraps Its Thought-Provoking and City-Wide Exhibition
"Smart Construction Sites" Established to Guarantee that the Venue Construction of World University Games Chengdu Be Finished on Time
LONGi and Shin-Etsu Chemical announced global patent agreement on Gallium-doped technologies
Sanya Unveils Mascots in Motion for the Sixth Asian Beach Games
Technology-led Solutions Help Onshore Wind Turbine Manufacturers Tap Additional Revenue Opportunities
CPO Magazine Report Highlights Organization Challenges and Priorities as Data Protection and Privacy Go Mainstream
Greenfields plant will lower carbon emissions by 1,482 tons annually with 1.3MWp solar system by Total Solar DG
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Trip.com launches COVID-19 international traveler's guide
SHANGHAI, March 30, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- In light of the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on international travel, Trip.com today launched the 'COVID-19 International Traveler's Guide', a one-stop information source designed to make planning travel safer and easier in a period of uncertainty. The all-new Trip.com COVID-19 International Traveler’s Guide On the upgraded page, users have at their disposal a suite of tools, information and news to make informed decisions about prospective travel plans. The 'Country/Region Entry Restrictions' tool now allows users to input their desired destination and travel history, to see at a glance whether their travel will be restricted by the most up-to-date immigration policies. Users can also find on the page the most recent cancellation provisions from Trip.com, updates on relief efforts, and statistics on the state of the global pandemic. The new tool is the latest iteration in a series of measures taken by the leading international online travel services provider to deliver on its promise of safe, seamless and pleasant travel experiences for users. From the beginning of the outbreak in late January, Trip.com has provided daily updates on entry restrictions, documentation requirements and quarantine measures for countries and regions on its website in various languages, including English, Japanese, Korean and Chinese (Traditional), covering more than 15 markets internationally. Trip.com has also provided constant updates to its cancellation policies, extending cancellation coverage for travelers unable to travel due to diagnosis with the virus, working on the frontlines of the medical effort, or immigration restrictions in their destination. The platform has also streamlined extended cancellation provisions in line with the Safeguard Cancellation Guarantee initiative, led by Trip.com Group. Through the initiative, Trip.com Group united industry partners with the initiative to give peace of mind to its 400 million users worldwide in a time of uncertainty. In addition to its efforts to make travel safer and easier for customers, Trip.com Group also recently announced an initiative that has seen the donation of 1 million surgical masks to countries across the globe. "Our mission is to make travel pleasant," said Trip.com Group Chairman James Liang. "During this time of uncertainty, we feel it is our responsibility to do our utmost to give travelers peace of mind, and to bring the world together at this crucial moment in the fight against the pandemic." Trip.com continues to monitor developments to ensure the safety of all travelers. The Trip.com COVID-19 International Traveler's Guide is available at: https://www.trip.com/covid-19/safe-travel?locale=en_xx About Trip.com: Trip.com is a leading international online one-stop travel service provider, available in 19 languages across 23 countries and regions. Our platform combines over 1.2 million hotels in 200 countries and regions, 2 million flights connecting more than 5000 cities, and world-class 24/7 English language customer service as well as additional centers in Edinburgh, Tokyo and Seoul, 'making every trip the perfect trip' for our millions of customers worldwide. Logo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200123/2700754-1?lang=0Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200330/2763821-1?lang=0
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Airbnb to Help Provide Housing to 100,000 COVID-19 Responders
New global initiative will provide free or subsidized housing for healthcare professionals, relief workers, and first responders, typically closer to where they are working Airbnb Hosts can opt in to provide homes that follow new cleanliness protocols based on recommendations from medical experts Airbnb is partnering with the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Rescue Committee, International Medical Corps and other nonprofit organizations to help support their relief workers on the frontlines SINGAPORE, March 27, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Airbnb is announcing a new global initiative to help connect those responding to the COVID-19 pandemic with safe and convenient places to stay while they carry out their critical work. The company's goal is to help house 100,000 healthcare professionals, relief workers, and first responders around the world. Airbnb will waive all fees for stays arranged through this initiative. Airbnb to Help Provide Housing to 100,000 COVID-19 Responders "Medical workers and first responders are providing lifesaving support during the coronavirus outbreak and we want to help," says Airbnb's Co-founder Joe Gebbia. "We've heard from countless hosts around the world who want to provide a comforting home to heroic first responders. We are connecting our nonprofit partners, government agencies and others with our incredible host community to work together in these extraordinary times." The initiative builds on a pilot program launched earlier this week in France where Airbnb and the French government announced that doctors, nurses, caregivers and other medical support staff who are responding to the outbreak in the country can access free accommodation through Airbnb. The Airbnb community has already responded to the call, with nearly 4,000 hosts in the country offering their homes after the announcement on Tuesday. To enable healthcare providers and other COVID-19 responders to find housing, Airbnb will be working with businesses, nonprofits and government & emergency management agencies supporting these responders. Hosts can opt into the program and have the option of opening their homes for free through Airbnb's Open Homes platform, created in 2012 to meet the needs of people requiring emergency housing. If hosts are not able to host for free, Airbnb will still waive all fees on the stay. Accommodation for relief and medical workers, who have higher exposition to COVID-19, requires robust preventive practices and stringent safety standards. Airbnb takes the health and safety of its community very seriously and has worked with leading experts and officials to develop a protocol for hosts who support this collective health effort. The protocol will be updated to incorporate new requirements from local and national authorities and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We are working with experts to continuously enhance our approach, including Dr. Larry Brilliant, a renowned epidemiologist and Chair of Ending Pandemics. Dr. Brilliant will also involve several nationally recognized experts from his consultancy, Pandefense, in this effort. "While science is still developing around COVID-19, and there is a lot we do not know, we have provided guidance to support the Airbnb community participating in immediate efforts with governments and institutions. As medical and relief workers require accommodation for response and preparedness, the Airbnb community is in a unique position to help. I applaud Airbnb for working under conditions of such uncertainty to provide housing for first responders and medical staff working in this pandemic. We are working to provide clear communication and resources, based on rapidly evolving knowledge about this novel virus and best practices on sanitation, in order to help keep communities as safe as possible," said Dr. Larry Brilliant. Examples of safe hosting recommendations include listing entire homes and agreeing to a number of safety requirements including enhanced cleaning, social distancing with their guests, and allowing 72 hours between stays. Airbnb's partners or affiliates will ensure that stays are COVID-19 related and responders are familiar with safety protocols. To learn more and to open their homes, hosts can go to airbnb.com/covid19relief. Through this initiative, Airbnb will be working with leading organizations who have already deployed thousands of relief workers to help fight the pandemic. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies are coordinating their network of millions of volunteers in 192 countries to respond to the outbreak. The International Rescue Committee has launched coronavirus preparedness and response in over 40 countries, and International Medical Corps is working with its approximately 7,000 staff globally to provide medical supplies, training and triage and treatment services during the outbreak. "Airbnb and Open Homes maintain a unique capability to address housing needs at the most critical of times," said Nancy Aossey, President and CEO of International Medical Corps. "This commitment will help International Medical Corps house our frontline health workers and first responders as our teams address the global COVID-19 pandemic, reaching hot-spot and low-resource areas in the US and around the world. Thanks to this timely and generous support, we can direct more funds to provide medical care, medical supplies, mental health services, and training and education on infection prevention and control while helping ensure our staff members have a place to go home to." Airbnb has also launched a donation tool to help power even more stays for relief workers while they do their critical work. 100% of proceeds will go directly to nonprofits helping with COVID-19 relief efforts. To donate, go to airbnb.com/openhomes/covid19relief?donate. Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200327/2762614-1?lang=0
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UMAI launches largest database of restaurants in Singapore and Malaysia that sell gift cards to help keep favorite restaurants afloat
As the COVID-19 pandemic progresses, governments are implementing lockdown and initiating quarantines that are affecting local businesses -- purchasing/selling of gift cards helps provide them with immediate cashflow.SINGAPORE, March 27, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- On 27th March 2020, UMAI has launched the largest directory of Singaporean and Malaysian restaurants and cafes that offer gift cards and vouchers, making it easier for diners to support their favorite restaurants by purchasing for themselves, loved ones, or the less fortunate. Buying full or discounted value vouchers will help restaurants with immediate cashflow, and offset lost income amidst the COVID-19 health crisis. UMAI launches largest database of restaurants in Singapore and Malaysia that sell gift cards to help keep favorite restaurants afloat Restaurants are struggling to stay afloat, as restrictions are placed on serving customers in-house, fewer customers are dining out, and sales are down across the region. As F&B businesses typically operate at a 3-5% margin, there's not much buffer room left for them to weather this out, putting their teams and business at risk of closure. While gift cards provide immediate income relief that will help these business continue running, less than 1% of restaurants in the region are offering this service -- UMAI is offering this software for free globally, during this unprecedented times. "There are a lot of restaurants that are deciding whether they stay is business or not," says Co-Founder, Jonas Chelbat. "Our generosity, collectively as consumers, now literally affects the ability of your favorite restaurant to stay open." "At this point, the purchasing of gift cards is the best thing any of us can do to support restaurants -- and it's win- win. It's like giving a restaurant or cafe a loan, and getting paid back in food, drinks and appreciation. We built this software so that consumers can purchase this on behalf of loved ones, support the less fortunate or simply for themselves during this difficult time," says Co-Founder, Alexander Small. "The most important thing we can do is bring attention to the problem, and help the community play a role in solving it." The sites currently features 130 restaurants that sell gift cards. UMAI is aiming to help at least 300 more restaurants make it onto the lists. Visitors can: Search for a specific restaurant, or browse based on who has discounted gift cards - by area, cuisine type and so forth. Visitors can purchase a restaurants gift card directly from the restaurant's website, by clicking on a restaurant. Any restaurant can add their gift card to the directory. For more information, visit: Singapore: https://www.umai.io/en/singapore Malaysia: https://www.umai.io/en/malaysia About UMAI With hundreds of restaurants in Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam, UMAI offers CRM and marketing software to restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs. Customers include Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, HardRock Café, Blu Kouzina, to name a few. Reach out, and let's have a conversation about how we can contribute in helping you improve your business! Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200327/2762542-1?lang=0Related Links :https://www.umai.io
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Fashion and MANGA Exhibitions to Be Held in National Art Center, Tokyo, during Summer 2020
- Enjoy Whole Day in Stunning Glass Building in Roppongi -TOKYO, March 26, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Art Center, Tokyo (NACT) has announced its exhibition schedule during summer 2020, including exhibitions on "Fashion in Japan 1945-2020" and "MANGA -- TOKYO." Photos: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/release/202003117936?p=images Boasting one of the largest exhibition spaces in Japan, NACT is a popular art museum drawing over two million visitors from around the globe every year, with diverse exhibitions ranging from worldwide modern and contemporary art to manga, architecture, and fashion. In addition to the exhibitions, NACT offers ample ways to pass the time with three cafes and a restaurant, as well as a shop with an extensive selection of goods. The photogenic building with its wavelike "curtain wall" of glass, designed by architect Kisho Kurokawa, is an attraction in and of itself. Despite being in the center of the city, the interior is suffused with light and the green of trees, allowing visitors to experience the concept of "an art center surrounded by green spaces." On Fridays and Saturdays, NACT is open until 8:00 p.m. (9:00 p.m. from July to September). It is located in the sophisticated Roppongi district, a global center for art, fashion, and dining surrounded by shopping facilities such as Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown, along with restaurants and hotels. Special exhibitions' schedule: -Timeless Conversations 2020: Voices from Japanese Art of the Past and Present (closing on June 1, opening date to be confirmed later) -Fashion in Japan 1945-2020 (June 3-August 24)A comprehensive introduction to Japanese fashion culture, which has garnered worldwide attention, from the post-World War II era to the present -MANGA -- TOKYO (July 8-September 22)While focusing on manga, anime, games, and tokusatsu (SFX films), this exhibition traces how these works have altered people's memories of "Tokyo" with a host of original pictures, models, and films. -TOKUJIN YOSHIOKA Glass Tea House KOU-AN (underway through May 10, 2021) For further details: https://www.nact.jp/english For some special exhibitions, audio guides (fee required) are available in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean.
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NTT West and ABC Group Form Pixellot Powered NTTSportict to Focus on Local Japanese Sports and Their Fanbases
TEL AVIV, Israel and TOKYO, March 26, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Pixellot, the world's leading provider of AI-Automated™ sports production and streaming solutions announces a strategic partnership to provide its AI-Automated solutions to NTTSportict co. ltd, a new company that was formed by NTT West and Asahi Broadcasting Group HD in Japan. The new company will provide video content production and distribution to sports facilities and organizations, based exclusively on Pixellot's technology. "We are proud to have Pixellot as our partner in bringing automated production to semi-pro and local leagues," said Masatoshi Nakamura, President of NTTSportict. "After conducting extensive trials in several leagues, we concluded that Pixellot is the leading technology for our long-term plans. We are moving forward to increase local sports coverage to ensure that every team and player can get the exposure that they deserve while providing communities and teams with the ability to engage at a high level, watching live games, replays and sharing game and player highlights." jwplayer.key="3Fznr2BGJZtpwZmA+81lm048ks6+0NjLXyDdsO2YkfE=" jwplayer('myplayer1').setup({file: 'https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKRuf9S_8PA', image: 'http://www.prnasia.com/video_capture/2961672_AE61672_1.jpg', autostart:'false', aspectratio: '16:9', stretching : 'fill', width: '512', height: '288'}); Watch: https://youtu.be/FKRuf9S_8PA "We're happy to have been chosen as the providers of the technology that will be powering the coverage of local leagues in Japan," said Alon Werber, CEO of Pixellot. "The ability to broadcast games live will enable local and amateur sports to come out of the current crisis faster. Players and clubs will connect on a much higher level with their fan base. The foresight of our partners to put this technology in place will be a major factor in helping society return to normal." Several Japanese sports associations welcomed the news: The Nara Football Association who participated in trials last year announced: "We will transform games into valuable content so that everyone in Japan can enjoy local sports!" The Kumamoto Prefecture Handball Association stated: "This will create a world where more and more people can enjoy handball games, that take place in rural areas." The Japan Ice Hockey Federation added: "We will look forward to creating new value for athletes and fans." "We are already seeing some of the APAC leagues returning to play. The financial recuperation process of the top leagues will be faster than the secondary and lower divisions. This is precisely where automatic production can help," says Christopher Yap Pixellot's Head of Sales & Business Development, APAC About Pixellot Pixellot's AI-based automated production solution provides the sports market with easy and affordable ways to produce and distribute high-quality game and highlights videos. Pixellot's solution streamlines the production workflow by creating a panoramic image of the entire playing surface. Advanced algorithms enable automated coverage of the game, generate highlights and add graphics and ads. Pixellot works with schools, clubs, leagues and federations worldwide, and produces over 90,000 hours of live sports per month from over 6,000 venues. In addition, added-value features such as game and player highlights increase fan engagement and reach on social media. Media contact Yossi Tarablus | Director of Marketing | yossit@pixellot.tv
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Gold Coast Piazza goes Hand in Hand with the FSES, 'Tithe Ethical Consumption Movement' Handing Love to the Seniors
HONG KONG, March 25, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- With the COVID-19 outbreak continues, the purchase of daily necessities were made difficult and the daily lives of Hong Kong elder citizens were immensely affected. Seeing to this, Gold Coast Piazza and the FSES 'Tithe Ethical Consumption Movement' curated a goodie bag for the elderlies in Tuen Mun district, sending warm blessings and love. All products inside the goodie bag were carefully selected, all were specially chosen for the elderlies. Products for goodie bag The goodie bags include set of vacuum handle mug and pu erh tea; a health combo with canola oil and organic red rice. The bag also includes seniors' favorite – products of Chinese medicine and plasters. Other than that, instant soup and tea, warm Ning Bo Tong Yuen dessert, adding a hand sanitizer on top can surely bring some warmth for our elderly friends. Thanks to the support from generous brands, including: Siu Ning Bo Siu Ning Bo Sesame Tong Yuen Made with vegetable oil, production process is closely monitored to ensure hygienic product. It is well-known around the with a reputation of 60 years. VACA Vacuum handle mug 500ml Keep warm and cold. No BPA, non-slip bottom silicon base can avoid slippery and scratch. Yu Tea House Yu Tea House Pu Erh Tea From Yunnan, China. This puerh is expertly crafted by the hands of experienced tea masters using the spring flush from Xishuangbanna of the Yunnan Province as the the main ingredient. SIU VISION SIU VISION SIU Red Rice SIU VISION is a Social Enterprise that promotes high quality healthy food complies with Fair Trade and Ecological Conservation. Original Taste Workshop Original Taste Vouchers Nourishing soup made with 100% raw materials, no MSG, no chicken powder, no original taste, can be redeemed at 15 branches in Hong Kong. Bossi Tea Bossi Tea (watermelon flavor) Low sugar, antioxidant, caffeine-free, artificial color, juice-free, USDA certified organic. Batedine BETADINE Natural Defense Foaming Hand wash Free from 8 undesirable chemicals, dermatologists tested, and eliminates 99.99% of germs for daily protection. Nutriworks Flexi-Patch Made of a fine pulverized form of purified Mandarin Wood Vinegar, nano-tourmaline and green tea. These patches may support healthy circulation and as a consequence promote cleansing internally through normal body channels. Agent of Change Agent of Change Canola oil Made in Hong Kong, No additives, no pigment, definite healthy choice. Ling Nam Medicine Factory Ling Nam Ultra Balm Patch Ling Nam Ultra Balm Ling Nam Nutmeg Balm Mau Lung Minjak Gosok Oil Along the long history, Ling Nam Medicine Factory manufactures products of Chinese Medicines with the genuine spirit. About TECM Sponsored by the Home Affairs Bureau, Tithe Ethical Consumption Movement is organized by Fullness Social Enterprises Society and it will be entering its 9th anniversary in 2020. TECM gathers over 200 social enterprises, covering 5 different areas including 'eating', 'playing', 'buying', and 'individual and corporation service'. Myriads of promotion events will be held. TECM will reinforce the cooperation between business and social parties, with an aim to foster stronger and more intimate bonding between social enterprises and organizations in all fields. Diverse workshops, training programs, and matching platforms will be continuously held, through which social enterprises may have more opportunities to develop their business. Simultaneously, business parties can leverage resources more effectively and give their best back to society. For more information: www.tecm.hk/ or Facebook page: www.facebook.com/TitheEthicalConsumptionMovement/ About Hong Kong Gold Coast and Gold Coast Piazza Located at the waterfront of Castle Peak Bay, Hong Kong Gold Coast is an easily accessible yet idyllic seaside destination merely 30 minutes' drive from the hustles and bustles of the city and the airport featuring a resort hotel, a premier private yacht and country club, a superb collection of luxury sea-view apartments and villas, and an exciting outdoor shopping mall. As part of the Gold Coast resort destination, Gold Coast Piazza is a scenic, European-style dining, entertainment and shopping mall in an open-air, pedestrian-friendly setting. Its romantic Mediterranean architecture and ambience is complemented by a terrace garden, waterfront promenade and the yacht marina, while a festive spirit pervades the piazza year-round with seasonal decor, activities and performances. For more information: www.goldcoastpiazza.com.hk orFacebook page: www.facebook.com/GoldCoastPiazza Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200325/2760485-1?lang=0 Related Links :http://www.goldcoast.com.hk/
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COMPUTEX 2020 Rescheduled to September
Unfortunately, the world is affected by severe infectious pneumonia (COVID-19). As of today, more than 300,000 people have been diagnosed across 167 countries worldwide, impacting the economy, trade, transportation, convention, and tourism. COMPUTEX organizers, TAITRA President & CEO, Mr. Walter Yeh, and TCA Secretary General, Mr. Enoch Du jointly announce, for the health and safety of exhibitors and visitors, the effectiveness of the exhibition, and maintaining the COMPUTEX brand image, COMPUTEX scheduled for June 2-6 will be rescheduled to September. To continue to service exhibitors and visitors around the world while taking into account the health and safety of all participants, COMPUTEX is rescheduled to September 28-30, at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, Hall 2 (TaiNEX 2) and will present 5G and communication, smart solutions, gaming, and InnoVEX (startups). According to McKinsey's latest epidemic report, the epidemic in China and East Asia will be controlled at the beginning of the second quarter, and the epidemic situation in Europe and the United States will slow down in June. TAITRA will enhance inviting global visitors to attend COMPUTEX in September through its 63 overseas offices. For exhibitors who continue to support COMPUTEX, TAITRA will organize a COMPUTEX online exhibition on the Taiwantrade from June 2-6 and invite global buyers to participate in online procurement meetings. TAITRA will also invite exhibitors to conduct new product launches, as well as invite global ICT companies to share 5G, AIoT, and other smart technology applications through Webinar.
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The Main Structure Construction of the Aquatic Center for the World University Games Chengdu Has Finished Recently
CHENGDU, China, March 25, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Dong'an Lake Sports Park is the main venue for World University Games Chengdu 2021, which is the first international multi-sport event holding in Chengdu and western China. To get to know more about Chengdu, please visit www.gochengdu.cn. On March 18, Chengdu Dong'an Lake Sports Park project brings us a piece of good news with its ahead-of-schedule completion of the main structure construction of the aquatic center for World University Games. According to the Organizing Committee of the 31st FISU Summer World University Games Chengdu, the steel structure construction of the roof has been completed with the water-proof sealing also finished. Dong'an Lake Sports Park has "one stadium and three indoor arenas". The stadium with 40,000 seats will hold the opening and closing ceremonies; the 18,000-seat multi-functional indoor arenas will host the gymnastics events; the 4,500-seat aquatic center will be the venue for swimming events, and the small arena will function as the place for gymnastics training. With a total floor area of about 200,000 square meters, the project began in October 2018 and is expected to be completed by February 2021. The three indoor arenas are three square buildings linked together organically by a large square. They are connected with the circular main stadium through outdoor exhibition areas, sunken squares and hydrophilic platforms, representing the traditional Chinese concept of "harmonious coexistence" and the ancient idea of "round sky and square earth". With a building area of about 90,000 square meters and a height of 44.3 meters, the multi-functional arena can compare with Cadillac Arena in volume. The arena can hold various events. Besides holding the events of the World University Games, it can also be the venue for 16 indoor sports. To better serve multiple purposes, the arena is equipped with movable stands which can adjust the number of seats according to demand. The arena has 20 large beam-type cantilever whirlwind staircases with a span of 13.5m and a length of about 80m, leading directly to the roof from the large outdoor platform. Seen from a distance, they are stacked like a dragon winding up, showing a dynamic temperament. The multi-functional arena adopts prefabricated eco-friendly water boards as the stands, which can improve the sense of the quality of the arena with the smooth surfaces, neat edges and corners, and uniform color.With the completion of the main structure construction, the installation processes of electromechanicals, metal roofs, curtain walls and the decorative process of the three stadiums will start. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-main-structure-construction-of-the-aquatic-center-for-the-world-university-games-chengdu-has-finished-recently-301029416.html
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National Museum of Art, Osaka, Announces Exhibition Schedule of 2020
-Museum Offers Contemporary Art That Perfectly Encapsulates Osaka's Unique Blend of Cultures-OSAKA, Japan, March 24, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Museum of Art, Osaka (NMAO) has announced its exhibition schedule of 2020, including exhibits of the "Masterpieces from the National Gallery, London." Photos: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/release/202003117937?p=images The NMAO is a museum dedicated to contemporary art from around the world with a collection of about 8,000 works, among the largest in Japan. The Collection Exhibition, which is changed four times a year, showcases the finest selections from this wide range of collected works. Combining masters like Alberto Giacometti, Pablo Picasso, and Paul Cezanne with artists who have defined contemporary art history like Wolfgang Tillmans, Gerhard Richter, Jiro Takamatsu, and Yayoi Kusama, this is an exhibition space where there is always something new to discover. As Japan's second largest metropolis after Tokyo, Osaka is a bustling and energetic city. From local cuisine like "takoyaki" and "okonomiyaki" and colorful, unique fashion to standup comedy and theater, "bunraku" puppet plays, and entertainment spots like Universal Studios Japan, various cultures come together here to produce experiences. Tourists coming to take in Osaka's sights won't want to miss vibrant contemporary art from around the globe. While savoring the energy of the city, please enjoy world-class contemporary art that blends cultures transcending new and old, East and West. In addition to art, visitors can also appreciate Osaka's historic streetscapes with Nakanoshima River cruises departing from close to the museum, along with Osaka Castle, famous for its cherry blossoms in spring. Special exhibitions' schedule: Danh Vo oV hnaD (April 4-June 14)The first large-scale solo exhibition by internationally acclaimed artist Danh Vo (b. 1975) at a Japanese museum Masterpieces from the National Gallery, London (July 7-October 18)This large-scale exhibition of the gallery's collection will comprise a total of 61 works. World-renowned masterpieces by artists such as Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh will be shown in Japan for the first time. Museum Laboratory: The Intersection of the Senses (tentative title) (November 7-December 25)An introduction to Japanese artists who treat the exhibition space like a laboratory and pursue experimental methods of expression Audio guides (fee required) provide explanations in English, Chinese, and Korean. Website: http://www.nmao.go.jp/en/
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Award-winning Leadership Agility Coach and Founder of ACEsence Yeo Chuen Chuen Launches Book and Fund Raising for Virus Crisis
Leaders are being tested in these volatile times and developing agility is keySINGAPORE, March 24, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Yeo Chuen Chuen, an executive coach, founder of ACEsence and 'Woman Super Achiever' award winner, has recently launched a fundraising for COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund for the World Health Organization (WHO) through the pre-order sales of her forthcoming book, 8 Paradoxes of Leadership Agility. Front cover of 8 Paradoxes of Leadership Agility In this unprecedented health challenge, the WHO, through the Solidarity Response Fund, is leading and coordinating the global effort to support countries to prevent, detect, and respond to the pandemic. According to the WHO, the fund goes towards supporting work to track and understand the spread of the virus. It also ensures patients get the care they need and frontline workers get essential supplies and information. "The virus crisis is a test on our systems and processes -- we need to display our ability to respond quickly and appropriately as one coordinated system. This is also a test on our leadership -- to influence and connect with the masses using the right avenues and messages in a time of fear and uncertainty. All of these boil down to how fast we can switch our mindsets and take action," said Yeo. Yeo's upcoming book illustrates how her 4-step coaching model has been able to help her clients shift their mindsets and make decisions while considering contexts and constraints. It has transformed their ability to analyse challenges swiftly, act fast and communicate right. Yeo also advocates the importance of shifting mindsets for individuals through this disruptive period in which no one is spared. "The pandemic may last longer than expected and we need to carry on with our lives with as much normalcy as possible. The fight against the crisis cannot be accomplished by one person," said Yeo. The fundraising and book pre-order are available from ACEsence's website till 31 March 2020. About ACEsence ACEsence redefines corporate learning and development through best practices which maximize the human potential and hence, business capabilities. We understand your business goals and the essential skills your people need. We design impactful learning solutions which bridge the gap between theory and practice. We empower your business. Social Media Tags #leadership #leaders #coaching #coach #business #leadershipdevelopment #training #influence #success #leadershipagility #covid19 #flattenthecurve Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200323/2758147-1-a?lang=0Related Links :http://www.acesence.com
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Vinpearl Lighted up the Love Message and Respect to All Doctors, Service Personel, Supporting Partners Fronting COVID-19 in Vietnam
HANOI, Vietnam, March 24, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- In the evening of March 20, 35 hotels and resorts of Vinpearl in 17 provinces and cities across Vietnam simultaneously lighted up the heart symbol towards the team of doctors, service personnel, and people in the frontline against the epidemic. The activity lasts from March 20 to March 26. Vinpearl hotels and resorts This is the message of love towards humanity that Vinpearl wishes to spread to the community, when the whole world is fighting against COVID-19. This positive, optimistic and extremely meaningful image was spread from Vinpearl's iconic buildings such as Landmark 81, the Vinpearl hotels in Hue, Can Tho, Quang Binh, Ha Tinh etc. Through the official fanpage, Vinpearl also called tens of thousands of staff and people to share photos with the building and the heart symbol with the hashtag #love_is_all_around. During the pandemic, the love within humanity is still a crucial message for people around the world to take into account. Vinpearl is the first corporation in Vietnam to take part in the act of lighting the heart and spreading love. In addition, Vingroup also sponsored for three research projects to respond quickly to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Nearly VND 20 billion is sponsored for these research projects in response to the recent coronavirus situation. Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200323/2758263-1?lang=0
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Trip.com Group expands scope of 1 million surgical mask donation initiative
SHANGHAI, March 20, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Trip.com Group, a worldwide leading online travel services provider, today announced a global initiative that will see the donation of 1 million surgical masks to support the fight against the COVID-19 epidemic. Led by the company's Co-founder and Chairman of the Board James Liang, the initiative has seen the delivery and allocation of surgical mask supplies to various countries, including Italy, Korea, Japan, the US, Canada, Germany, Serbia, France, UK and Australia. Trip.com Group donated surgical masks to various countries with words of encouragement. Liang says the company hopes that the donation will play a role in bringing countries together in a collective effort to contain the virus. "Many ways, to join one journey. Many origins, to reach one destiny. Many friends, to form one family. Many endeavors, to win one victory," said Trip.com Group Chairman James Liang. "It is crucial at this moment in the global fight against the epidemic that all countries come together and support each other, to secure a victory for humanity." "Going forward, we'll take this challenge in our stride, and lead the travel industry to flourish once again," said Jane Sun, CEO of Trip.com Group. "Let's continue to work together, to beat this challenge, and towards an exciting next step for the travel industry." The move to donate masks is the latest in a series of actions taken by the online travel services provider to minimize impact, and beat the epidemic. Trip.com Group CEO Jane Sun (right) presents a donation to Canadian Ambassador to China Dominic Barton (left). In late January, the company responded to the initial outbreak in China by extending cancellation provisions for customers affected by travel bans and medical conditions. As the situation continues to develop, the company has provided daily updates on travel restrictions via its platforms, and extended the scope of its cancellation policies to include medical workers as well as those unable to travel due to restrictions and infection. The company also led a Safeguard Cancellation Guarantee industry initiative, which brought together hotels and airlines to ensure that its 400 million users worldwide have peace of mind in booking with Trip.com Group platforms. Recipients expressed gratitude for the donation, and shared the company's sentiment of uniting nations to overcome the present challenge. "We are moved by this warm and generous gesture, and impressed by your efforts throughout the epidemic. We look forward to working together more closely to welcome our friends in China and across the world to Italy, and hope for a speedy victory for the world in containing the epidemic," said Italian Consul General in Shanghai, China Michele Cecchi. "Your thoughts and friendship are highly appreciated at this challenging time," said Serbian Consul General in Shanghai, China Dejan Marinković. "Thank you for your kind gesture. I look forward to continuing to work together, both to overcome this challenge, and into the future," said French Ambassador to China Laurent Bili. "We are very grateful for this generous donation from Trip.com Group. We will be sending these masks to frontline staff in the U.K. fighting the Coronavirus. As we face this global pandemic, acts like this remind us of the close ties of friendship between the U.K. and China. We hope in the months to come to continue our partnership with Trip.com Group in further deepening and broadening those ties," said Deputy International Trade Commissioner at the British Embassy in China John Edwards. About Trip.com Group: Trip.com Group is a leading one-stop travel service provider comprising of Trip.com, Ctrip, Skyscanner, and Qunar. Across its platforms, Trip.com Group enables local partners and travelers around the world to make informed and cost-effective bookings for travel products and services, through the aggregation of comprehensive travel related information and resources, and an advanced transaction platform consisting of mobile apps, Internet websites and 24/7 customer service centers. Founded in 1999 and listed on NASDAQ in 2003, Trip.com Group has become one of the best-known travel brands in the world, with the mission of 'making every trip the perfect trip'. Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200320/2756917-1-a?lang=0 Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200320/2756917-1-b?lang=0 Logo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20191111/2638489-1-LOGO?lang=0 Related Links :http://www.ctrip.com
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Asia's 50 Best Restaurants Honours Chef Yusuke Takada of La Cime With Inedit Damm Chefs' Choice Award
OSAKA, Japan, March 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Asia's 50 Best Restaurants has announced that chef Yusuke Takada of La Cime in Osaka, Japan, is the 2020 recipient of the Inedit Damm Chefs' Choice Award. Voted for by his fellow chefs on the Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list, the award acknowledges Chef Takada's contributions to Asia's culinary scene. Asia's 50 Best Restaurants has announced that chef Yusuke Takada of La Cime in Osaka, Japan, is the 2020 recipient of the Inedit Damm Chefs' Choice Award. Voted for by his fellow chefs on the Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list, the award acknowledges Chef Takada's contributions to Asia's culinary scene. Takada studied at the Tsuji Culinary Institute in Osaka before moving to Paris in 2007, where he worked at lauded institutions such as Restaurant Le Taillevent and Le Meurice. Returning to Japan in 2010, he opened La Cime in Osaka's Hommachi district. Over the last decade he has earned the respect of his peers with his refined dishes and ability to blend classic French cooking techniques with seasonal Japanese ingredients. Takada has helped turn the culinary spotlight on Osaka. Currently ranked No.14 on the 2019 list of Asia's 50 Best Restaurants, La Cime has become a destination for gourmets from around the world who fly to Osaka to experience the chef's exquisitely plated creations. Former recipients of the peer-voted Inedit Damm Chefs' Choice Award include a number of Takada's compatriots, including Seiji Yamamoto (2013), Yoshihiro Narisawa (2018) and Zaiyu Hasegawa (2019), as well as other Asia-based culinary legends such as Andre Chiang (2014), Richard Ekkebus (2015), Paul Pairet (2016) and Dave Pynt (2017). William Drew, Director of Content at Asia's 50 Best Restaurants, says: "Through the Inedit Damm Chefs' Choice Award, chef Yusuke Takada's contemporaries have expressed their admiration for his creativity and craftsmanship." Maria Faus, Marketing Manager Asia and Pacific for Damm, says: "We are honoured to give the Inedit Damm Chefs' Choice award to Yusuke Takada, a chef who perfectly combines his Japanese roots with studiously acquired French techniques. We are happy to keep partnering with Asia's 50 Best Restaurants and this special award, which sees the talent of an individual chef recognised by his peers." Chef Takada will be honoured as part of the eighth annual Asia's 50 Best Restaurants awards, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna. As a result of current travel restrictions in Asia, this year's event takes the form of a virtual awards ceremony, streaming on the Asia's 50 Best Restaurants Facebook page and YouTube channel starting at 4pm (HK/SG; 5pm JPN) on Tuesday, 24th March. Contact: CatchOnA Finn Partners CompanyEmail: asias50best@finnpartners.com Phone: +852-2566-8988
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Trip.com Group donates 1 million surgical masks to COVID-19 efforts
SHANGHAI, March 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Trip.com Group, a worldwide leading online travel services provider, today announced a global initiative that will see the donation of 1 million surgical masks to support the fight against the COVID-19 epidemic. Led by the company's Co-founder and Chairman of the Board James Liang, the initiative has as of today seen the delivery and allocation of surgical mask supplies to Japan, Korea, Canada, and France, among others. The initiative was led by Trip.com Group Chairman James Liang (pictured) Liang says the company hopes that the donation will play a role in bringing countries together in a collective effort to contain the virus. "Many ways, to join one journey. Many origins, to reach one destiny. Many friends, to form one family. Many endeavors, to win one victory," said Trip.com Group Chairman James Liang. "It is crucial at this moment in the global fight against the epidemic that all countries come together and support each other, to secure a victory for humanity." The move to donate masks is the latest in a series of actions taken by the online travel services provider to minimize impact, and beat the epidemic. Trip.com Group donated surgical masks to various countries with words of encouragement. (Canada, pictured) In late January, the company responded to the initial outbreak in China by extending cancellation provisions for customers affected by travel bans and medical conditions. As the situation continues to develop, the company has provided daily updates on travel restrictions via its platforms, and extended the scope of its cancellation policies to include medical workers as well as those unable to travel due to restrictions and infection. The company also led a Safeguard Cancellation Guarantee industry initiative, which brought together hotels and airlines to ensure that its 400 million users worldwide have peace of mind in booking with Trip.com Group platforms. "Through today's donation, we hope to encourage countries to come together and offer mutual support in overcoming this common challenge for humanity," said James Liang. "Trip.com Group hopes that as a result of the collective and continued efforts of nations working together, the end is in sight for the epidemic." "We are faced with a great challenge, but amidst these hardships, we've learned that we are all part of a larger entity, and we're all in this together. We are moved by Trip.com Group's generosity in, of its own volition, extending its support," said Canadian Ambassador to China Dominic Barton. About Trip.com Group: Trip.com Group is a leading one-stop travel service provider comprising of Trip.com, Ctrip, Skyscanner, and Qunar. Across its platforms, Trip.com Group enables local partners and travelers around the world to make informed and cost-effective bookings for travel products and services, through the aggregation of comprehensive travel related information and resources, and an advanced transaction platform consisting of mobile apps, Internet websites and 24/7 customer service centers. Founded in 1999 and listed on NASDAQ in 2003, Trip.com Group has become one of the best-known travel brands in the world, with the mission of 'making every trip the perfect trip'. Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200318/2754717-1-a?lang=0Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200318/2754717-1-b?lang=0Logo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200318/2754717-1-c?lang=0Related Links :www.ctrip.com
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Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Foundation share clinical experience from frontline medical workers to global medical institutions
HANGZHOU, China, March 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Foundation are today sharing some key lessons and experience from doctors and other medical administrators and staff at the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (FAHZU), who were at the frontline of COVID-19 treatment in China and crucial to slowing its spread. Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Foundation share clinical experience from frontline medical workers to global medical institutions In the form of a digital handbook, the medical administrators and staff cover and share globally what they've learned every step of the way, from screening, to diagnosis and treatment of patients who contracted COVID-19. Over a 50-day period, FAHZU admitted 104 patients confirmed ill with COVID-19, including 78 critically ill patients. Through pioneering efforts of medical staff and investment in new technologies, FAHZU has so far made it through the public health crisis without a single medical staff infection, missed diagnosis or patient death. It is the hope of the Jack Ma Foundation and the Alibaba Foundation that medical administrators and staff around the world find this handbook helpful and useful in treating COVID-19 patients. "Today, with the spread of the global pandemic, these experiences are precious and the most-important weapon for medical personnel," wrote Jack Ma in a foreword in the handbook. "We hope that, with this handbook, doctors and nurses in other affected areas can learn from experience as they face this battle, without having to start from scratch." Medical administrators and staff can download the handbook at covid-19.alibabacloud.com. Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200318/2754671-1?lang=0
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Sydney's Most Insta-worthy Hotels
Crown Group's Collection of Luxurious Apartment Hotels Skye SuitesSYDNEY, March 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- SKYE Suites Sydney is proving to be one of Sydney's most instagrammable hotels since it opened in October 2018, having already been captured and shared by hotel guests and KOLs on social media. SKYE Suites Green Square - Pool This includes a Grazia fashion shoot, Grazia x ICON magazine launch event and most recently has been snapped by the likes of influencers Alona Kalinina and Brock Ashby, celebrity fitness trainer Jono Castano and his wife Amy, TV presenter Nikki Phillips and international model Cartia Mallan. Visitors to Sydney seeking an Insta-worthy backdrop to their next hotel stay should seek out the new SKYE Suites serviced apartment hotel on Clarence Street in the heart of the city, or SKYE Suites Parramatta, which opened in 2017 and offers an outdoor pool with expansive foyer. Fashionistas and photographers are already anticipating the opening of SKYE Suites Green Square in coming months, which already has one of Sydney's most instagrammable rooftop pools on an open-air podium level that has views all the way to the city. A recent photo shoot with Alona shows it off in its best form. The building Infinity by Crown Group with its unique looped shape has already caught the attention of the world, winning several awards, and was also named one of the world's best projects at the 2017 Australia Property Congress. SKYE Suites Green Square guests will also have access to the exciting new retail and dining precinct at ground level, where there are plenty of Insta-worthy moments with a host of new restaurants and cafes. It will soon host Butcher and the Farmer, Makoto Japanese, Bashan, Nam2, Gong Cha and Social Society. There will also be Miracle's new flagship Asian supermarket, a hairdresser and a nail salon. "Guest's preferences are changing quickly so as hotel designs - at Crown Group, we always endeavor to design world's best hotels with innovation, creativity and passion," Crown Group's General Manager –-Hotels, Ben Nesbitt said. "We wanted to create an inspired destination with our SKYE Suites, where our guests can experience something unique and special, the most instagrammable lobbies, swimming pools, hotel apartments and impressive new retail precincts." "Infinity by Crown Group has extraordinary outdoor spaces with sweeping views from the Blue Mountains all the way to Sydney CBD, from the pool area. Those who book will have access to the newest and most exciting venue in Sydney, with the ability to really wow their social media followers with an amazingly beautiful new architectural space that forms the ideal photo opportunity." SKYE Suites Sydney, CBD The hotel has 73 luxury serviced apartments, offering a luxury five-star urban resort experience in the heart of the city. Featuring an Insta-worthy lobby, indoor Ice Cave-themed swimming pool and excellent gym, SKYE Suites Sydney is situated within the 25-story residential apartment tower Arc by Crown Group designed by globally renowned architect Koichi Takada. The global icon forms a striking addition to Sydney's skyline, with its distinctive heritage-look red brick façade at street level and 59 striking white arches that envelop the glass and steel upper levels and the rooftop garden. SKYE Suites Parramatta Crown Group's first boutique serviced apartment offering, SKYE Suites Parramatta situated within the multi-award winning mixed-use development, V by Crown Group. V by Crown Group itself is an iconic Sydney landmark. Designed by Allen Jack + Cottier and Koichi Takada Architects, the striking tower houses a diverse mix of 514 residence apartments and 72 luxury hotel suites along with architecturally designed indoor and outdoor spaces. All hotel guests will have access to the Crown Group's signature resort-style facilities including 25m outdoor swimming pool, gym, expansive foyer, conference rooms, vibrant alfresco dining, retail piazza and Nick and Nora's rooftop bar. SKYE Suites Green Square SKYE Suites Green Square, designed by world-renowned interior designer and TV judge, Juliet Ashworth, is the third luxury serviced apartment hotel, set to open its door to Sydneysiders early this year. The hotel will form part of the $575 million landmark development Infinity by Crown Group, a striking 20-storey building with unique looped shape, designed by the visionary Koichi Takada Architects. Besides plush new hotel rooms and lobby, residents of Infinity by Crown Group will also have access to Crown Group's signature resort-style facilities including an open-air pool, rooftop gardens with city views and a sky lounge with stunning views all the way to the city, a spa, gym, music room with a baby-grand piano and a private cinema. Guests who book via skyehotels.com.au will receive complimentary mini during their stay, available at SKYE Suites Parramatta and Sydney. For more information and to book a stay, please visit http://www.skyehotels.com.au or contact us by email: info@skyehotels.com.au. Media Interviews Crown Group's General Manager – Hotels, Ben Nesbitt is available for interviews on request. About Crown Group Crown Group Holdings (Crown Group) is a leading Australian property group specialising in property development, property investment and serviced apartments. The company was co-founded by architect Mr. Iwan Sunito and engineer Mr. Paul Sathio with its first project in 1996. Crown Group has successfully completed major developments in Sydney's best locations including Bondi, Bondi Junction, Parramatta, Ashfield, Epping, Homebush, Newington, Pennant Hills and Rhodes and most recently the 25-storey Arc by Crown Group in Sydney CBD and 2017 Property Council of Australia's Annual Property Congress' one of the World's Best Projects Infinity by Crown Group in Green Square. Today, Crown Group boasts a portfolio of six major projects under development and in the pipeline. It is currently developing three major projects in the Sydney area: the $500 million five tower precinct Mastery by Crown Group in Waterloo being developed with Mitsubishi Jisho Residence; Waterfall by Crown Group in Waterloo; and Eastlakes Live by Crown Group the most exciting new address in the Eastern Suburbs. Crown Group launched SKYE Suites in Parramatta in August 2017 and SKYE Suites Sydney in October 2018. It is due to open SKYE Suites Green Square (Sydney) soon. www.crowngroup.com.au Awards Crown Group has been awarded more than 30 high-profile industry awards including 2019 Master Builders Association (MBA) NSW Excellence in Construction Awards Best Use of Steel, Best Use of Brick and Best Mixed-Use Development; 2019 Architecture MasterPrize in Mixed Use; 2019 Architizer A+Awards Jury Vote and Popular Choice Awards; 2019 HIA–CSR Australian Housing Awards Best Apartment Complex; 2019 MBA Best Commercial Pool and Best Commercial Spa; 2019 Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) NSW Awards for Excellence in High-Density Development; 2018 Property Guru Best Condo Development and 2015 International Property Awards Best Residential Development Australia, for Arc by Crown Group; 2019 Urban Developer Awards Excellence in Marketing for Mastery by Crown Group; 2019 UDIA NSW Awards for Excellence commendations for Arc and Mastery by Crown Group; 2019 International Property Awards Winner Development Marketing Australia for Eastlakes Live by Crown Group; 2018 UDIA NSW Best Mixed-Use Development and 2016 International Property Awards Best Residential High Rise Architecture Australia for V by Crown Group Parramatta; 2017 Property Council of Australia's Annual Property Congress' one of the World's Best Projects for Infinity by Crown Group; 2017 Master Builders Association NSW Excellence in Construction Awards for Skye by Crown Group; 2015 MBA NSW Excellence in Construction Awards for Viking by Crown Group Waterloo and 2014 UDIA NSW President's award – considered one of the highest property development accolades in Australia – for the seven-tower, resort-style development Top Ryde City Living. For the past two years, SKYE Suites Sydney won the Best Tech Hotel award and SKYE Suites Parramatta earned a Highly Commended for Best Serviced Apartment Property at the HM Awards 2018 & 2019. www.crowngroup.com.au/industry-recognition/ Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200317/2753692-1?lang=0 Related Links :http://www.skyehotels.com.auhttp://www.crowngroup.com.au
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Fosun Tourism Group Announces 2019 Annual Results
Net profit attributable to shareholders doubled to RMB609 million Smooth progress of FOLIDAY Town and continued perfection of FOLIDAY ecosystem Results highlights: Tourism operation saw a robust growth with net profit attributable to shareholders doubled. Business volume of tourism operation increased by 8.9%, adjusted EBITDA increased by 79.9% and net profit attributable to shareholders reached RMB609 million. Continued to enhance the leading position in resort operation as the resort business grew rapidly. Club Med's business volume increased by 5.2% to RMB13.21 billion with all three markets recording dynamic growths. Acquired Casa Cook and Cook's Club brands in November 2019 and signed contracts with four resorts within four months after the acquisition. The first tourism destination project achieved good results. Atlantis Sanya recorded a business volume of RMB 1.3 billion with EBITDA margin reaching 43% in 2019. FOLIDAY Town, a new tourism destination brand smoothly launched. Lijiang and Taicang FOLIDAY Towns are expected to launch presale in 2020. Acquired a centurial brand to build a brand-new lifestyle platform. Completed the acquisition of the Thomas Cook's brand in 2019 and will integrate and upgrade to a global family lifestyle platform. HONG KONG, March 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Fosun Tourism Group ("Fosun Tourism" or the "Company"; together with its subsidiaries, the "Group", Stock Exchange stock code: 01992), the world's leading leisure-focused integrated tourism group, is pleased to announce its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2019. Encouraging business growth with net profit attributable to parent nearly doubled For the year ended 31 December 2019, the Group recorded a revenue of approximately RMB17.34 billion, representing a 6.6% growth. The Group's business volume of tourism operation business increased by 8.9% to RMB14.6 billion. Adjusted EBITDA increased by 79.9% and net profit attributable to shareholders doubled to RMB609 million. The Board of Directors proposed to recommend a final dividend for the year ended 31 December 2019 HK$0.02 per share. Together with the interim dividend, the dividend for the full year were HK$0.09. Enhanced leading position in resort operation with a dynamic growth of Club Med and the acquisition of new resort brands As at 31 December 2019, the Group operated 66 Club Med resorts and has operations in more than 40 countries and regions over the six continents. During the year, the business volume reached RMB13.21 billion, increased by 5.2%. The recurring EBITDA excluding impact of implementing IFRS 16 increased by 9.1%. The Group continues to promote its upscaling strategy, enhancing upscale and offerings. The capacity of 4&5 Trident resorts increased from 80.1% by the end of 2018 to 85.0% by the end of 2019. Beneficial from hot selling of winter ski products and the increased capacity of 4&5 Trident resorts, average daily bed rate increased by 5.6% to RMB1,330. Globalization strategy continues to be effectively implemented. In 2019, the number of customer visits to resorts reached 1.5 million, an increase of 3.2%. Among them, the number of customer visits from Greater China increased from 243,000 in 2018 to 282,000 in 2019, maintaining a growth in consecutive ten years, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.0%. The Group recorded dynamic growths across all three regions especially the growth in Brazil, the United Kingdom and Australia markets. Mr. Henri Giscard d'Estaing, Vice Chairman of the Board and Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Fosun Tourism, said, "2019 was again a satisfying year for Club Med with good financial results and many achievements for our brand and our customer experience. To further leverage on Club Med's ski advantage, we successfully opened our Alpe d'Huez mountain resort and Grand Massif Chalets in France, besides the successful launch of Miches beach resort in the Dominican Republic and Club Med Joyview in Yanqing, China. We strive to develop high-end and pioneering ski and seaside resort products in the future, well-balanced geographically. It will include a beach resort in Seychelles, a mountain resort in La Rosière (French Alps) and a mountain resort in Quebec Charlevoix, Canada to be opened from 2020 and beyond. In addition, we have signed several contracts to open new resorts in China in the next few years, including Club Med resorts and Club Med Joyview resorts in the Lijiang and Taicang FOLIDAY Towns, self-developed projects by Fosun Tourism." With the acquisition of the Casa Cook and Cook's Club hotel brands, the Group's resort brand portfolio has been further enriched to meet the diversified market needs. Within four months after the acquisition, the Group has signed four hotels and planned to develop at least 15 resorts under Casa Cook and Cook's Club brands in the coming three years. The Group's first tourism destination project achieved good results and new brand "FOLIDAY Town" launched successfully In 2019, the operation revenue of the Group's tourism destination, Atlantis Sanya, amounted to RMB1.3 billion, increased by 74.2%, EBITDA increased to RMB564.8 million with EBIDTA margin reaching 43%. During the year, the number of customer visits to Atlantis Sanya reached 5.2 million Leveraging on the successful operation of Atlantis Sanya, the Group quickly launched the development of new tourism destinations. In November 2019, the Group launched "FOLIDAY Town" brand to gather numerous leading global tourism and leisure brands by leveraging the global FOLIDAY ecosystem of Fosun Tourism, leading to a brand-new leisure lifestyle. Currently, construction works of the Lijiang and Taicang FOLIDAY Town projects are underway and the two projects are expected to launch presale of saleable vacation units in 2020. Building up Thomas Cook lifestyle platform In 2019, FOLIDAY distribution platform achieved business volume of RMB476.5 million, a significant increase of 123.0%. Since the acquisition of Thomas Cook brand from Thomas Cook Group plc and its subsidiaries in November 2019, the Group strives to integrate Thomas Cook into a lifestyle platform serving family customers across the world. The lifestyle platform has included the businesses of Foryou Travel and Kuyi which were originally under the FOLIDAY distribution platform. It also includes tourism and leisure services and products. Strong financial position with sufficient cash reserves facing the epidemic Despite the outbreak of the COVID-19 since the end of January 2020, the Group recorded a strong performance in the first two months of 2020 with the resort operation increased by approximately 8%, and EBITDA increased over 20%, compared with the same period in 2019. Although the business volume of tourism destinations operation has been affected by the epidemic, EBITDA remained positive for the first two months of 2020, reaching about RMB 50 million. In 2019 the Group has a strong financial position, cash and cash equivalent was approximately RMB2.1 billion and unused bank facilities was approximately RMB2.5 billion. It is expected that the COVID-19 will have negative short-term impacts on the Group, but it will not affect the Group's development in the long-term. Mr. Qian Jiannong, Chairman of the Board, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fosun Tourism said, "Fosun Tourism achieved steady growth in core business with net profit attributable to shareholder doubled in 2019. Meanwhile, as the leader in the leisure resorts operation worldwide, our brand edge in leisure tourism sector was enhanced through the acquisition of Thomas Cook brand and two hotel brands - Casa Cook and Cook's Club in 2019. By developing FOLIDAY ecosystem both online and offline, our business model has becoming a recommended sample. The current epidemic is changing consumer's perception on consumption profoundly. Consumers generally expects a higher quality and better service in tourism. To further promote product upgrade in the tourism industry, the Chinese government announced "Implementation Suggestions on Promoting a Higher Quality and an Expansion of Capacity in the Consumer Sector to Foster a Robust Domestic Market" on March 13, 2020. We believe that our upgraded products will better meet the market's future demand. We proactively respond to the epidemic with reasonable cost control on operation and headquarters' expenses and maintaining stable financial position. The current epidemic is an international public health crisis, yet our innovative business model helps the Group to withstand the crisis, grape the rebound opportunities after the epidemic crisis and look for opportunity and driving force of sustainable growth amid the crisis." Financial Highlights: RMB million For the year ended 31 December Change 2019 2018 Revenue 17,337 16,270 +6.6% Gross profit 5,539 5,276 +5.0% Adjusted EBITDA 3,729 2,073 +79.9% Adjusted EBITDA margin 21.5% 12.7% +8.8% pts Profit attributable to equity holders 609 308 +97.4% Earnings per share - basic (RMB) 0.49 0.31 +58.1% Proposed final dividend (HK$) 0.02 Nil N/A Interim dividend (HK$) 0.07 Nil N/A - End - About Fosun Tourism Group Fosun Tourism Group ("Fosun Tourism", Stock Exchange stock code: 1992) is one of the world's leading leisure-focused integrated tourism groups, and the largest leisure tourism resorts group worldwide in terms of revenue in 2019. Through the lifestyle proposition, "Every day is FOLIDAY," the Group seek to infuse concepts of tourism and leisure into everyday living. The Group was listed on the main board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in December 2018.
