At PHHPC Meeting Tomorrow, 1199SEIU Will Call For Swift Implementation of Nursing Home Reform Laws
Wed, Dec 07, 2022 18:56 EST
The meeting of the Public Health and Health Policy Council (PHHPC) will be livestreamed at 10AM here: https://www.health.ny.gov/events/webcasts On Thursday, nursing home workers, members of 1199SEIU, will call for full and swift implementation of the package of nursing home reform laws signed by Gov. Hochul earlier this year. Initially passed by the legislature in 2021, the reforms include provisions that require nursing homes to meet minimum staffing levels of 3.5 hours per resident per day and spend at least 70% of revenue on resident care. The Public Health and Health Policy Council (PHHPC) unanimously approved regulations to implement the laws on November 17, but have since faced intense pushback from nursing home owners. 1199SEIU members are attending the PHHPC meetings in Albany and New York City today to oppose the industry's calls to weaken the laws protecting nursing home residents and staff. Currently, NYS ranks 44 th in the nation for nursing home staffing with annual staff turnover nearing 50% . " The pandemic shined a light on the critical need for these staffing laws . That's why the legislation was overwhelmingly passed and signed back in 2021! Now is the time to ensure the laws are implemented," said Jacquelle Pinnock, a CNA at the Parker Jewish Institute in Queens. "There is no time to wait!" "We fought hard for these laws and we need them to now be enforced. We are losing staff because we work short. We need to start enforcing these laws to keep caregivers at the bedside ," said Lisa Johnson, an LPN at Collar City Nursing Home in Schaghticoke. Richard Romero, a veteran CNA at Shaker Place in Albany (formerly the Albany County Nursing Home) said, "We are losing staff because we work short. We need to start enforcing these laws to keep caregivers at the bedside." 1199SEIU's support for fully implementing nursing home reform in New York State comes on the heels of Attorney General Tish James announcement last week of a major lawsuit against an upstate nursing home operator and its related companies for siphoning off millions in Medicaid funds, failing to hire sufficient staff, and making egregious decisions that allowed COVID-19 to run rampant through the facility. Absent reform to improve transparency and standards in the industry, these types of practices will continue, advocates say. Media Contact: Stuart Marques stuart.marques@1199.org 917-273-6194
ETSI TeraFlowSDN Wins Layer123 Network Transformation 'Upstart of the Year' Award
Wed, Dec 07, 2022 16:57 EST
The ETSI TeraFlowSDN group (ETSI TFS), launched only six months ago, has won the 'Upstart of the Year' award at the Layer123 Network Transformation Awards ceremony, held at the prestigious Berkley Hotel in Knightsbridge, London, last night. This award also recognizes the ETSI strategy to provide new software development tools and practices to an evolving standardization ecosystem. The new ETSI group, born from the TeraFlow EU-funded research project and now hosted by ETSI, is developing an open-source cloud native SDN controller for smart transport networks, supporting standardization work at ETSI.
TRB Partners with the University of Bristol to Broaden its PFA Offering
Wed, Dec 07, 2022 09:29 EST
TRB Lightweight Structures - a leading provider of lightweight, energy efficient solutions for transport applications - has entered into a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) focusing on resin chemistry development with the University of Bristol . The 24-month project, commencing in December 2022, will specifically target poly(furfuryl alcohol) (PFA) resin systems, aiming to develop improved formulations for composite applications. Environmentally aware manufacturers, including TRB, are moving towards 'greener' materials - such as PFA produced from biomass waste - whenever possible. PFA offers excellent fire, smoke, and toxicity (FST) behaviour, and can operate effectively at elevated temperatures, making it broadly comparable to the more commonly used petrochemical-based phenolic resins. The KTP will build on TRB's expertise in the use of PFA in composite components, and the University of Bristol's strong resin chemistry development knowledge - through the involvement of Professor Ian Hamerton and Dr Ram Ramakrishnan - to develop the next generation of PFA resin systems. Jointly funded by TRB and Innovate UK , the UK's innovation agency, the project will be led by KTP Associate Dr Usman Sikander, a materials engineer specialising in composite materials and manufacturing, who will work predominantly at TRB. His initial focus will be on resin-based formulation trials, before progressing to composite prepreg manufacturing in house at TRB, as well as laminate production and testing. Dr Sikander commented: "Sustainability is one of the key drivers for innovation in the next generation of composite materials. I am very excited to be a part of the KTP project, where I will be developing novel and sustainable materials for a range of products in the industrial landscape. PFA resins have a promising future and offer solutions that are in line with reaching the net zero goal in the longer run. I look forward to working with TRB and the University of Bristol to expand the market share of these products." Francis Arthur, Engineering Manager at TRB, added: "We are delighted to be embarking on a KTP with the University of Bristol to develop next generation PFA materials and overcome the current shortcomings of this resin system. Applications with stringent FST requirements - such as underground rail, aerospace, and electric vehicles - are set to benefit from a broader PFA offering that aligns closely with our vision for more environmentally sustainable transport. We expect the KTP to be the start of an innovative and fruitful relationship." Jody Chatterjee, Knowledge Transfer Adviser, Innovate UK KTN, stated: "KTPs have been successfully supporting company and academic partnerships for over 47 years across a range of industries and sectors throughout the UK. In recent years, there have been between 700 and 900 such partnerships, with around 200 projects ending and a similar number replacing them. From next year onwards, we are expecting that the KTP programme will support nearly 1,000 such partnerships. Around 94 % of these partnerships achieve or over-achieve their objectives, and c.65 % of the Associates, who act as the conduits of knowledge transfer from the academic teams to the companies, remain with their host companies. I am truly excited to have the partnership between TRB Lightweight Structures and the University of Bristol join our KTP family."
igus passes the one billion sales mark
Wed, Dec 07, 2022 09:03 EST
The Cologne-based industrial company achieved a ten-digit turnover for the first time at the beginning of the Carnival igus®, the Germany-based manufacturer of motion plastics, announced that the company has reached the one billion mark in sales for the first time. One billion euros in sales: this target, which igus set for the first time in 2020, has been achieved just two years later despite the Corona pandemic - just in time for the Cologne Carnival to start on 11/11. "Amazing, but true. It was on this exact day that we, a Cologne-based family business, reached one billion in sales," says igus CEO Frank Blase, who was also born in Cologne. And igus has already identified its next goals. The company wants its production to become climate-neutral by 2025 and serve one million active customers by 2030. From a Cologne garage to the world For igus, it all began in a garage. In 1964, Margret and Günter Blase founded igus. The couple won over their first customer with the words: "Give me your most difficult injection-molded part, and I'll find a solution," laying the foundation for the company's success. Today, igus serves around 188,000 customers from over 50 industries worldwide and employs over 4,500 people at 31 locations. Its guiding principle is "improve what moves," driving igus to improve movement worldwide through motion plastics. "We dream of a lubrication-free world," stated Blase.
Advyzon Investment Management (AIM) Continues Growth and Adds Two Key Team Members to Staff
Wed, Dec 07, 2022 07:46 EST
Alex Riedel and Tony Oulahan are core to AIM's mission of serving independent financial advisors Advyzon Investment Management (AIM), a turnkey asset management program (TAMP) under the Advyzon umbrella, recently announced that they are adding two key members to their growing team. Alex Riedel serves as Managing Director, Head of Client Portfolio Management and started on November 28 th , 2022. Tony Oulahan serves as Senior Vice President of Business Development and started on July 5 th , 2022. They join the current AIM team consisting of Lee Andreatta, MBA, Chief Executive Officer; Brian Huckstep, CFA, CFP®, Chief Investment Officer; and Meghan Holmes, MBA, Chief Operating Officer. "We're so excited to have both of these professionals join AIM," said Lee Andreatta, CEO and co-founder of Advyzon Investment Management. " Alex is a known, highly sought-after commodity in the financial services industry and there's no one better at helping advisors achieve their portfolio management goals on behalf of their end clients. Tony is an expert at understanding an advisor's practice and helping to make recommendations based on technology and investment solutions. Both are extremely valuable additions to our team." ABOUT ALEX RIEDEL Alex Riedel is Managing Director, Head of Client Portfolio Management with Advyzon Investment Management. Riedel's key role is to consult with AIM advisors on investment options and portfolio construction in order to help them meet their client's goals and scale their practice. "I couldn't be more excited to join the AIM team," said Riedel. "AIM has integrated cutting edge TAMP technology with best-in-class investments. I look forward to my role of helping empower advisors to meet their clients' goals and credibly scale their practices." Riedel brings over 25 years of investment experience to the firm. Before joining AIM, he began his career as a representative with Olde Discount Stockbrokers. Next, he joined Mercer Investment Consulting as an analyst where he helped consult institutional defined benefits plans on asset allocation policy and manager selection. After that, Alex joined Ibbotson Associates where he was a featured asset allocation speaker, as well as the lead client service manager in configuring a web-based asset allocation tool for institutional clients. Following Morningstar's acquisition of Ibbotson Associates, Riedel built up and led Morningstar Investment Management's portfolio specialist team, which served as the liaison between the investment team and advisors. Riedel earned his bachelor's degree in Finance with a concentration in Investments from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. ABOUT TONY OULAHAN Tony Oulahan serves as the Senior Vice President of Business Development for Advyzon Investment Management and leads the firm's business development with RIAs across the country. "AIM is a truly amazing team, and I'm honored to be a part of it," said Oulahan. "Advyzon technology is best in class and constantly improving. The advisor demand and reception of AIM in the marketplace has been outstanding." Oulahan brings 15 years of investment experience to the firm, with the majority of that focused on the independent RIA space. He started his career as an investment wholesaler with Fifth Third Bank in the asset management division. From there, he moved on to wholesaling roles with Calamos Investments and Fund Evaluation Group. Most recently Tony was a Business Development Officer with Schwab, where he consulted with advisors throughout the process of going independent in order to help them achieve their entrepreneurial vision, and ultimately launch independent RIAs on the Schwab platform. Tony has a bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Thomas More University. ADVYZON INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT EMPOWERS ADVISORS TO WORK ON THEIR BUSINESS, NOT IN IT Advyzon Investment Management, which launched in March of 2022, was created to allow financial advisors to be more efficient via a better integrated user experience by providing TAMP services conveniently within Advyzon's single source code platform. AIM's managed portfolio solutions and high touch service model allow advisors to achieve operational efficiencies along with best-in-class investment selection and modeling, while empowering them to work on their business, not in it. Advyzon's cloud-based platform combines portfolio management, customizable performance reporting, trading and rebalancing, client web portals, client relationship management (CRM), client billing, document storage, and turnkey asset management with AIM, making it easy for advisors to run their financial planning and investment advisory firms while managing their client accounts with efficiency and ease. Over the years, the Advyzon team began to see that advisors wanted additional, comprehensive options for asset management solutions without having to look outside of Advyzon's award-winning comprehensive platform. Therefore, creating a TAMP was a natural evolution for Advyzon. AIM offers risk-based models including active/passive mutual funds and ETFs, a tax-sensitive ETF only solution, an ESG active/passive model, an alternative model, and direct indexing, as well as tools and methodologies around tax optimization and tax loss harvesting. The firm has continued to build out additional investment products around all of these core offerings, as well as offer new strategies, as the year has unfolded. In addition to their investment offering, AIM provides a personalized service model to advisors based on their philosophy of insourcing versus outsourcing. AIM's service team members are personally assigned to individual advisors and take the time to truly understand their businesses, doing the heavy lifting on the whole lifecycle of an account including account opening, billing, reporting, trading, data reconciliation, and acting as a custodial liaison. To learn more about AIM, please click here . ABOUT ADVYZON AND ADVYZON INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT Advyzon provides comprehensive, intuitive, cloud-based, wealth management technology for independent financial advisors and registered investment advisors (RIAs). The Advyzon tech platform combines Advyzon Investment Management's turnkey asset management program (TAMP) with portfolio management, customizable performance reporting, trading and rebalancing, client web portals, client relationship management (CRM), client billing, and document storage. AIM's managed portfolio solutions and high touch service model empowers financial advisors to achieve operational efficiencies along with best-in-class investment selection and modeling. To learn more about Advyzon, visit www.Advyzon.com . To learn more about Advyzon Investment Management, visit www.AdvyzonIM.com .
TEXAS HOSPITAL PRICE TRANSPARENCY COMPLIANCE NEARLY DOUBLED SINCE SPRING
Tue, Dec 06, 2022 14:40 EST
TEXAS HOSPITAL PRICE TRANSPARENCY COMPLIANCE NEARLY DOUBLED SINCE SPRING Texas 2036's online dashboard - pricetransparency.texas2036.org - examines the differences in prices for the same health care services across Texas AUSTIN, TX - Texas 2036's online dashboard , which displays health care pricing data in an easy-to-visualize format, shows that a majority of Texas hospitals - twice the percentage from the Spring - now provide pricing data in compliance with transparency laws. Both federal rule and state law require all Texas hospitals to post data on their website that details the costs of their services, including the negotiated rate for each insurance payer. These requirements have been in effect since Jan. 1, 2021. As of our evaluation in October 2022, most hospitals in Texas were in compliance. Of note: Texas 2036 was able to access data for 86% of hospitals (out of 648 statewide). 60% of hospitals were "mostly compliant" with federal and state requirements, which is our evaluation's highest rating. This is nearly double the rate from our Spring evaluation, when one-third of Texas hospitals were found to be "mostly compliant." Some Texas hospitals posted files that missed key pieces of data, such as insurer-specific rates. The availability and formatting of hospital codes and insurer-specific information make data harmonization and comparisons between hospitals difficult and, in many cases, impossible. Texas 2036 began researching this data to evaluate the actual prices paid by insurers and patients for various health care services around the state. Texas 2036's interactive dashboard provides users the ability to see the data statewide by Public Health Region, Senate District, Largest Hospital Systems, and Individual Hospitals. "Our latest analysis shows that Texas hospitals - especially some of our largest systems - have made great progress, with most achieving compliance," said Charles Miller, senior policy advisor at Texas 2036. "At the same time, it shows that there is work yet to be done by a minority of Texas hospitals to get up to compliance with federal and state requirements that have been in effect for nearly two years." The public dashboard, which can be found at pricetransparency.Texas2036.org , represents the most comprehensive, publicly available Texas health care pricing transparency tool. It analyzes pricing data for a range of health procedures and services, both statewide and within 11 Public Health Regions - providing Texans a snapshot of how prices for the same health care services vary among hospitals, payers and geographic regions. The evaluation scores range from "no website" to "mostly compliant." "Mostly compliant" is the highest score that Texas 2036 can issue. This rating does not indicate that the analysis identified areas where a hospital was not in compliance, but instead, it reflects that Texas 2036 lacks the capacity a government would have to independently verify that a file is "fully" compliant with certain aspects of the law. For example, Texas state law requires hospitals to include prices for all services that they offer in their transparency file. Because Texas 2036 does not have access to publicly available lists of all services offered at each hospital, we have been unable to confirm that all services offered at a hospital are included in their price-transparency file. As part of an ongoing effort by federal agencies to empower employers and consumers to make more informed decisions about their health care spending, federal rules required hospitals operating in the United States to provide clear, accessible pricing information about their services beginning Jan. 1, 2021. Texas passed a similar law that went into effect in September of that year. Most insurers and employers were required to disclose their own transparency files as of July 1, 2022. Beginning in 2024, they will be required to provide their enrollees with consumer-friendly comparison-shopping tools that show consumers' out-of-pocket costs for specific providers. ### About Texas 2036 Texas 2036 is a nonprofit organization building long-term, data-driven strategies to secure Texas' prosperity through our state's bicentennial and beyond. We offer non-partisan ideas and modern solutions that are grounded in research and data on issues that matter most to all Texans. For more information, visit www.texas2036.org . Media Contacts: Email media@Texas2036.org or contact the following: Merrill Davis, Vice President of Communications, Texas 2036 Ph: 713-213-7297 / Email: merrill.davis@texas2036.org John Reynolds, Director of Communications, Texas 2036 Ph: 512-468-7003 / Email: john.reynolds@texas2036.org Jessi Acuna, Manager of Communications, Texas 2036 Ph: 702-280-0682 / Email: jessi.acuna@texas2036.org Meagan Falcon, Coordinator of Communications, Texas 2036 Ph: 361-461-0931 / Email: meagan.falcon@texas2036.org
Tax preparers to begin getting ready for 2023 tax season
Tue, Dec 06, 2022 11:47 EST
Tax industry professionals are beginning to gear up for the 2023 tax season, which will likely include an increase in client communications due to new and expiring tax provisions applicable to 2022 returns. Among the topics of conversation with their clients will be tax planning to incorporate tax benefits of the American Rescue Plan Act, passed in August 2022, and creating an awareness that they may not receive a refund, or as large of a refund as last year, due to the number of expiring credits like the expanded child tax credit. "The end of the year is sometimes the calm before the storm that is tax season," said Tom O'Saben, government relations and tax content director at the National Association of Tax Professionals. "Tax pros should use this time to get familiar with their software, begin scheduling client meetings and seek out important education resources that may be needed during crunch time, such as webinars or other guidance on specific topics like the child tax credit, retirement plans, trusts, etc." The National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) is planning for an increase in questions from its members about the implications of tax law change. Last month, NATP members received a pre-written newsletter that practitioners can send to their clients to alleviate some of those questions or use the information to facilitate tax planning conversations. Another point of focus for tax firms will be creating and maintaining a data security plan. Earlier this year, the IRS released a template tax professionals can use as a starting point to guide their written data security plan implementation for their office. Lastly, tax professionals should remember to renew their preparer tax identification number and complete any education requirements for designation renewal. NATP members receive year-round support through industry-leading education, informative publications, business practice management resources and more. To speak with someone further about this topic, please contact Nancy Kasten or Samantha Strong .
Steptoe & Johnson PLLC Continues Growth in Pittsburgh with Additions of Christine M. Green and Manning J. "Jim" O'Connor
Tue, Dec 06, 2022 10:56 EST
Chrissy Green and Jim O'Connor have joined the Pittsburgh office of Steptoe & Johnson PLLC. Green joins the firm's Business Department as a Member and will focus her practice in the areas of federal, international, and state tax matters. O'Connor joins the firm's Labor Department as Of Counsel and will focus his practice on employment litigation and counseling matters. "Chrissy's background in sophisticated tax matters and Jim's employment counseling and litigation background and trial experience will be an asset to our clients in Pittsburgh and across the country," said Steptoe & Johnson CEO Christopher L. Slaughter. "We're excited to welcome Chrissy and Jim to our Pittsburgh office, which has more than doubled in size since opening two years ago." Green regularly assists clients in business transactions by providing tax structuring options and guidance on company acquisitions and disposal. She also advises clients on incentive compensation plans in relation to business transactions. In addition to counseling for-profit companies, she also handles concerns for nonprofit organizations, such as petitions for exempt status and state charity solicitation registration and filings. Green earned her law degree from Duquesne University Law School and earned her bachelor's degree from Pennsylvania State University-Behrend. O'Connor has a background in representing businesses in disputes involving employment litigation that include breach of contract, harassment, and discrimination claims, as well as non-compete/non-solicitation agreements and trade secrets matters. He also has experience in commercial and health care litigation where he has represented both hospitals and physicians in matters such as regulatory and patient care issues, contract and insurance disputes, and corporate compliance. O'Connor earned his law and bachelor's degrees from Duquesne University.
igus e-chain stays at the highest cleanroom class even after 60 million double cycles
Tue, Dec 06, 2022 09:05 EST
e-skin flat energy chain: igus proves abrasion resistance with the first industry test of its kind igus®, the world leader in motion plastics and moving cable management systems, announced that its e-skin® flat cleanroom-compatible e-chain® systems still qualify for the highest cleanroom class even after 1.5 years of continuous use and 60 million double cycles. A test unprecedented in the industry led to this result. The test was carried out in a cleanroom laboratory set up by igus in cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation (IPA). In a cleanroom environment, the tiniest particles, even those invisible to the naked eye, can damage electronic components. Therefore, the strictest cleanroom class - ISO Class 1 according to DIN 14644-1 - must contain no more than ten 0.1-micrometer (0.0001-millimeter) particles per cubic meter of ambient air. To achieve this purity level, all cleanroom component suppliers must meet the strictest requirements. To this end, igus has developed the e-skin flat. The e-skin flat is a cable management system made of abrasion-optimized high-performance plastic. The e-skin flat ensures reliable, particle-free power and data cable guidance in moving production systems and is thus suitable for ISO Class 1. Unique test setup: e-chain runs for 1.5 years in a dirty and dusty environment "The e-skin flat cleanroom e-chain is ideal for robots and other automation systems in electronics production in such areas as semiconductors and display production," says Andreas Hermey, Development Manager for e-chain systems at igus. "It is so abrasion-resistant that contamination by airborne particles is no longer an issue." However, until now cleanroom performance of the cable carrier after prolonged intensive use has been unclear. So igus launched a test setup, unique in the industry, to determine its details. Part one of the experiment was conducted in igus' test laboratory. The energy chain moved in an environment with normal levels of dust and dirt for around 1.5 years, during which it performed 60 million double strokes. igus e-chain stays at the highest cleanroom class even after 60 million double cycles Part two of the experiment took place in the cleanroom laboratory in Cologne, conducted by igus in cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation (IPA), igus' development and certification partner, for more than 17 years. The heart of the setup was three so-called laminar flow boxes equipped with high-performance filters that enable tests in uncontaminated air. The worn-out e-chain was in motion there for over 100 minutes. Sensors detected particle concentration in the surrounding air. "Even after 60 million double cycles, our e-skin flat e-chain still qualified for the highest cleanroom class," says Hermey. "This finding offers cleanroom production facility operators additional confidence." Modular concept for flexible filling The e-skin flat features extreme abrasion resistance and a modular design. If a profile into which cables have been fitted is defective, the user can change that module. Many other solutions available on the market would require the entire system to be replaced. The module connection also allows individual profiles to be interlinked. The cable guidance system thus grows in line with requirements and ensures investment security. In combination with the specially harmonized chainflex® CFCLEAN stranded structure, the complete system offers an exceptionally high level of reliability. The complete system also has globally recognized certification from the well-known US Underwriters Laboratories (UL) organization. Finally, the cable guidance systems are 9dB(A) quieter and cost 20% less than standard ribbon cables. Learn more about the advantages of cleanroom solutions from igus here: https://www.igus.com/info/industries-cleanroom
New Chemical Management Law Adopted by Ukraine
Tue, Dec 06, 2022 07:12 EST
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is advising stakeholders that Ukraine has adopted a new law on the management of chemicals. 'On Adoption as a Basis of the Draft Law of Ukraine on Chemical Safety and Management of Chemical Products' (Reg. No. 8037) was issued on October 18, 2022, by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. Provisions in the new legislation include: Creating a regulatory framework for the management of chemicals Directing powers to government agencies Defining responsibilities for economic operators Implementing the international classification of hazardous chemicals into national law Mandating the registration of chemicals Fulfilling requirements for the following international treaties: Basel Convention (control of transboundary movements of hazardous wastes and their disposal) Rotterdam Convention (Prior Informed Consent (PIC) for certain hazardous chemicals and pesticides) Stockholm Convention (persistent organic pollutants (POP)), and Minamata Convention (mercury) SGS has published SafeGuardS 132.22 to help stakeholders better understand the provisions in the new law. The SafeGuardS includes a table that details the highlights in each section of the law: Section I Article 3 'Scope' Section II 'Subjects in the field of chemical safety and chemical product management' Section II Chapter IV 'Ensuring chemical safety' Section II Chapter V 'Requirements for production and use of chemical products' Section II Chapter XII 'International cooperation in the field of chemical safety and management of chemical substances' The SafeGuardS also contains further details of important effective dates: November 2, 2022, for date of entry into force - the day following its publication November 2, 2024 - enforcement of the provisions in the law (except below) Following the date of entry into force of the Minamata Convention on Mercury for Ukraine for Article 10 Clauses 23-25, Article 12 Clauses 12-13, Article 13 Clauses 17-20 and Articles 77-84 The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine is directed to issue legislation by May 2, 2024, for compliance with the law. SGS Chemical Testing SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS Chemical Testing Services . SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Ukraine Adopts Draft Law on Chemical Management SafeGuardS. Subscribe here to receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information contact: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: (+852) 2774 7420 Email: cp.media@sgs.com Website: www.sgs.com/cgnr LinkedIn: sgs-consumer-goods-&-retail
On Eve Of Biodiversity Conference Alarm Is Sounded For Wildlife
Tue, Dec 06, 2022 06:51 EST
On eve of crucial biodiversity conference, conservationists call for urgent action to save world's wildlife. Link to the animated movie: https://www.dropbox.com/s/ro1pw6o28iyjklt/The%20Animals%20Went%20In%20Two%20By%20Two.mp4?dl=0 On the eve of the UN biodiversity conference starting on 7 th December in Montreal, an animated movie set to a haunting adaptation of a children's nursery rhyme, has been created by conservationists as a warning to delegates to act to save the world's wildlife. The lyrics, a variation on the song "The Animals Went In Two By Two," warn of the threat of extinction facing one million of the world's species, conveyed by scenes of the animals' desperate search for help to keep them alive. The movie joins the animals on their journey to the conference (COP 15) where their fate will be decided by delegates from all over the world. But are world leaders paying attention? The movie marks the climax to the "Are You Listening" campaign by conservation NGO International Animal Rescue. IAR is gathering signatures from across the globe on a letter to delegates attending the conference, demanding urgent action to halt and reverse the biodiversity crisis before it is too late. The final words of the song, "Will you make the change?" challenge world leaders to avert the looming environmental tragedy that has been brought about by human activity. Says Alan Knight, IAR President: " The day of reckoning is fast approaching. Human activity has devastated the natural world to such an extent that, without urgent, meaningful action we stand to lose thousands, perhaps even a million plant and animal species for good. "We now know that the global decline in biodiversity is having as devastating an impact on our planet as climate change. Delays to this crucial meeting have cost more than two years of precious time when action could have been taken to put the brakes on the biodiversity crisis. The clock keeps ticking. Are the COP 15 delegates listening? I sincerely hope so. The world's wildlife can't afford any further failures to act. " The animation is the brainchild of creative marketing agency Amplitude. The team worked pro bono to develop the idea and deliver the finished product. They also secured the support of Grammy-nominated composer and orchestrator Amie Doherty and singer/ songwriter Billy Lockett. Knight adds: " We're urging everyone to watch the animation, sign the letter on our website and share the movie on social media so that world leaders are in no doubt of the urgent need for action to protect the planet's precious wildlife before it's too late." For further information and interviews with IAR representatives attending COP15, please contact Lis Key at IAR via email or on +44 7957 824379.
How will customers be spending this holiday season?
Tue, Dec 06, 2022 05:59 EST
Though almost a third of the UK public say they aren't going to put on the heating even when it is cold to save money, 83% say that gifts for birthdays and Christmas are currently affordable to them. But they are going to be gifting on a budget - looking to buy second-hand and discounted options to spread joy at Christmas after a gloomy year. Drawing on the latest insights from our Cost of Living Diaries, BritainThinks discovered the actions people are taking to respond to rising costs, how different groups are being impacted, who the public feel is responsible for the current situation, and what they are doing to find some light among the gloom. These key insights provide vital context for brands, marketers and comms professionals to inform future planning and strategy as you look ahead to your own year and look for the light in the gloom. Data is drawn from a nationally representative survey of 2,072 members of the public, and qualitative diaries with 20 people from across the UK. Drawing on the latest insights from our Cost of Living D iaries we have found: - 90% of the UK public rank cost of living as the most concerning current issue . 60% are very concerned about rising costs. - The public are making sacrifices to be able to afford the things that matter to them , with almost a third (31%) saying they won't put the heating on even when it is cold, and 1 in 8 (13%) saying they are or expect to start skipping meals to save on costs. - However, they are prioritising 'little treats', because these help to build resilience and hope each day . 8 in 10 (78%) say they still feel able to afford little treats for themselves and their families - and within this tend to be prioritising food and drink or (cheaper forms of) socialising - we heard from the public that: "[A treat is] a cup of coffee from Nero or Pret, Haribos, a bar of chocolate or fast food breakfast from McDonalds." "[We go] out for lunch or tea twice a month as a family for a treat... We wouldn't be happy if we couldn't afford to do this occasionally." - Wellbeing and health is also being prioritised to help in difficult times, but it must be managed cheaply . Affordable 'self' care is a priority for many: ditching gym memberships for free forms of exercise, at-home pampering, and cooking healthy meals from scratch over takeaways, as we heard from one member of the public: "I'm doing self-care such as face masks... I find myself being more crafty and trying to find cheaper ways of looking after my wellbeing, like going to beauty salons or hairdressers far less." - 83% say they could probably or definitely afford to buy a present for a friend or family member, for example for their birthday or Christmas. Even amongst those struggling the most, a majority say they can afford gifts, showing how important this is for human connections. This includes 54% of our 'Going Under' typology, and three quarter (75%) of those on low household incomes. But the public have told us they are looking to find low cost ways to meaningfully gift and enjoy Christmas: "My plans for Christmas in terms of budgeting are far tighter this year. I plan to spend less by layering discounts, offers or sales, shopping local or from sites like Ebay and Etsy and cutting costs by crafting items myself." "Xmas plans for us are to enjoy as a family in our household, my family will be joining us and we will be visiting the in-laws for Boxing Day - gifts we will be keeping minimal but meaningful." Dr Carol McNaughton Nicholls, Associate Partner commented: " Gifting is about much more than the item being shared, it is about social bonds and relationships. After a tough few years our research shows the importance being placed on maintaining these social connections and positive rituals, even in the face of having to cut back on essentials. Of course no one should feel they should buy gifts they cannot afford, the main message from the research is that people are trying to find their own ways to enjoy life and maintain strong connections, despite the instability of recent months and the challenges they feel are coming in the new year. They are looking at how to shop smarter and making new choices such as cooking at home to socialise. Clearly when we hear some are skipping meals or not turning on the heating even when it is cold there is a need for the most vulnerable in society to be able to access the right help and support. But they want to able to do so in a way that maintains a sense of choice, joy and social connection. These matter universally - however well off or struggling someone is." A limited number of briefings with journalists are available. Please contact Caitlin Murphy at the email below.
SGS Webinar: IoT Smart Sensing and Interacting Test Service
Tue, Dec 06, 2022 05:33 EST
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is pleased to present a complimentary webinar, 'IoT Smart Sensing and Interacting Testing' on Monday, December 19, 2022. Smart products with detection or interconnected functions have become ubiquitous in our lives. Whether at home or at work, many of us now rely on devices such as intruder detectors and smoke alarms for our safety. For manufacturers and retailers, the performance of the intelligent functions of these devices is paramount, but ensuring that their products gain quick and straightforward access to key markets also depends on their compliance with strict regulatory requirements - as security and privacy issues must also be addressed. Presenter Robin Lu, our South China Electric and Electronics Product Performance Manager, provides an in-depth look at the sensing technology that is at the heart of many of these Internet of Things (IoT) products. SGS offers testing solutions which can help businesses not only understand their products better and fulfill essential compliance demands, but to be able to use this knowledge to enable effective marketing. This event is aimed at manufacturers and retailers of intelligent IoT and smart appliances with sensors or interconnecting functions. It will also be of interest to global electric/electronic professionals. Register today For more information: Email: cp.media@sgs.com Website: www.sgs.com/ee LinkedIn: sgs-consumer-goods-&-retail
UK Clothing and Fashion Businesses Holding Double Stock Due to 'Inventory Crisis'
Tue, Dec 06, 2022 04:16 EST
New data released by Unleased reveals that UK clothing and fashion businesses are holding 57% more stock than before the pandemic as a result of supply chain issues. This widespread stockpiling could lead to challenges in warehouse management, says Midland Bearings, an equipment supplier to the UK warehousing and logistics sector. Through analysing more than 4,500 SMEs on four data points, the firm found evidence that make businesses had been forced to stockpile goods. The report highlighted that clothing manufacturers were reporting a drop in overall profitability, due to the impact of holding more stock. It would appear that the supply chain crisis has evolved into an inventory crisis, where many businesses have to hold more stock than usual in order to remain operational. Managing the stock levels could present real cash flow problems for these manufacturers in the months to come. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks says, "Everyone in our industry has worked so hard to mitigate the effects of supply chain issues caused by Brexit and the pandemic. The challenges prevented by the inventory crisis mean that warehouses will have to work even harder to ensure stock management is optimised to help increase profit margins". Midland Pallet Trucks provides warehouses with high-quality hand pallet trucks, weighing scale trucks, and optimise their space and manage their inventory with ease. Improving the management of warehouses will be crucial if firms are to weather the inventory crisis. Phil adds, "Our equipment has helped those in our industry stay afloat during the past few years, by providing them with the means to increase the efficiency of their warehouse operations, and improve the productivity of their staff. We will continue to support the logistics sector throughout these coming months, to help with the management of the inventory crisis". To find out more about the wide range of material handling and lift equipment available from Midland Pallet Trucks, visit: https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com/
How do people start the journey using credit?
Mon, Dec 05, 2022 05:21 EST
The latest wave of our Cost of Living (CoL) Diaries research* tells us almost all of the public are concerned about the rising cost of living. 90% say they are concerned about rising costs, and this figure has remained consistent since March 2022. It's the public's number one concern, and it's persistent. And that won't be surprising to many of us - everything from Twitter threads about the price of a pint, to holding out on the heating, to decisions to keep Christmas meaningful but inexpensive this year all speak to these high levels of concern about the rising cost of living. In this context, it has never been more important to understand how people think about, access and use credit . We know credit can be a lifeline, especially at the moment, alleviating the stresses of hiking prices and shrinking wages. At the same time, it can also start to become the cause of that stress. Consumer experiences of problem debt and credit reliance are well documented, but how do people actually start the journey using credit? What role do unsecured and new forms of borrowing play? How do behaviours evolve once on that journey? And crucially, are there any harms that could be avoided? Earlier this year*, we worked with the Financial Services Consumer Panel to explore these important questions. We heard from 40 people who were all in the early stages of using credit (those who took out their first product in the past three years, or those who have just one or two products). Their borrowing takes many forms, from informal lending between friends and family, using buy-now-pay-later products to fund online shopping, credit builder cards to improve their credit rating, peer-to-peer lending to see people through to the end of the month, or borrowing from a loan shark as a last resort. Across this broad sample, we found different 'typologies' of early credit users, who all had different mindsets, behaviours and attitudes when making the decisions to take out products. The findings that really got us thinking... Credit is seen as a 'helping hand', and very few described their credit as debt. Early credit users distanced themselves from debt, using this to describe people in more 'extreme' situations than their own. This poses some important questions: does it matter if people don't associate their credit with 'debt'? If debt isn't the mental model through which they view credit, does this mean consumers could take on more than they can afford? What role, if any, does the financial services sector have in helping consumers understand they are taking out debt, check whether they can afford it, and support customers to make it work for them? Borrowing is being normalised. Human nature means we're always comparing ourselves to others - this isn't anything new! But the cost of living means that consumers feel everyone around them is borrowing to cope with rising costs. This makes consumers feel their own borrowing is normal . While access to credit is definitely important right now, how can responsible credit be encouraged? Who, if anyone, has a role in supporting these behaviours and practises? The line between essential and non-essential spending is blurred. This research, as well as our wider work on the Cost of Living Diaries (conducted across 2022), tells us that people aren't willing to cut back on the 'things that make life worth living'. This is even when it could objectively be seen as 'non-essential' - the weekly takeaway, days out with family or holidays. More than ever, in the context of Covid recovery and in light of rising costs, these 'treats' remain an important part of what it means to be happy and well. And, they are 'making the cut' when it comes to trade-offs around spending. Does or should credit have a role to play in simply helping people enjoy life and feel it is worth living? Or are there risks in this - especially if, as we note above, it becomes overly normalised? These are just a few thoughts and questions we had doing this work, but the Consumer Panel set out their nuanced expert position in this research report . You can also follow this link for more information on our Cost of Living research. *N.B. The BritainThinks Cost of Living Diaries have been conducted in multiple waves throughout 2022. Our work with FS Consumer Panel was conducted in March and April 2022.
Braun-Bostich & Associates to Participate in Mon Valley Leathernecks 2022 Toys for Tots Drive
Mon, Dec 05, 2022 02:14 EST
In addition, wealth management firm wins 'Ascension Award' at the 2022 InvestmentNews Women to Watch Awards Braun-Bostich & Associates , an SEC Registered Investment Advisor and comprehensive financial planning firm located in greater Pittsburgh, will participate yet again in a Toys for Tots Drive hosted by the Mon Valley Leatherneck Association , the United Mine Workers of America Local 1197 , and the Cokeburg Volunteer Fire Department . The collection and dance, which will take place Saturday, December 3 rd , 2022 at the Cokeburg Fireman's Social Hall in Cokeburg, Pennsylvania, will include a toy collection, multiple bands, and an appearance from Santa. The hall will open at 11am ET for those who want to donate a toy, with Santa and a party for all kids starting at 2pm ET and the bands starting at 6pm ET. Admission will be one or more new, unwrapped toys per person. The Cokeburg Firemen will be cooking food and local bands playing in the evening include Laces Out, Lady & the Tramps, and Birmingham. All are welcome to attend. The children's toy giveaway will take place at the Stockdale Volunteer Fire Department on December 17 th at 10am ET, where children and families in need can pick out the toys they would like. "I am very proud to be participating again in this annual Toys for Tots drive and event," said Amy Braun-Bostich, founder and CEO of Braun-Bostich & Associates. "We love giving back and being involved in the local community, as well as helping to provide some Christmas cheer to children in need." Braun-Bostich & Associates' involvement started years ago when the event began by giving their time to help set up for the event, as well as monetary donations for gift bags for the kids, food, and other supplies. Gary Bostich, Amy Braun-Bostich's husband and member of the United Mine Works of America Local 1197, led the charge fifteen years ago by partnering with the Mon Valley Leatherneck Association, a group of Marines and organization located in Donora, PA and established in 1997, pairing a dance with the toy drive. Amy Braun-Bostich and Braun-Bostich & Associates have been heavily involved during that time and have been a key supporter of this successful annual event that fills 3-4 box-trucks to capacity with toys for children living in poverty. The child poverty rate means the percentage of all children in a state or territory that live in families with incomes below 100% of the Census Bureau's poverty threshold. The average across all Mon Valley counties is 19%, which exceeds the state-wide 17% rate. The Mon Valley footprint runs from Point State Park in Downtown Pittsburgh to Point Marion near the West Virginia border, a region that includes Allegheny, Fayette, Greene, Washington, and Westmoreland counties. Toys for Tots began in 1947 as the brainchild of Marine Corps Reserve Major Bill Hendricks. Major Hendricks and the Marines in his reserve unit in Los Angeles collected and distributed 5,000 toys in 1947. Today, the foundation raises funds, purchases toys, provides promotional and support materials, manages all funds raised and donated, solicits corporate support, educates the public, and handles day-to-day operations. Presently, the Marine Toys for Tots Program distributes an average of 18 million toys to 7 million less fortunate children annually. To learn more about the complete origin and evolution of the Toys for Tots program, please click here . To learn more about the Mon Valley Leatherneck Association, please click here . To learn more about the United Mine Workers of America Local 1197, please click here . To learn more about the Cokeburg Volunteer Fire Department and the event being held on Saturday, December 3 rd , please click here . BRAUN-BOSTICH WINS INVESTMENTNEWS WOMEN TO WATCH AWARD Braun-Bostich & Associates was honored as a winner of the Ascension Award at the InvestmentNews 2022 Women to Watch Awards , announced live on November 15 th , 2022 at Tribeca 360° in New York City, honoring outstanding women in the financial advice industry. "Each year, InvestmentNews celebrates achievements that measurably advance women in all aspects of the investment industry, at employers of all sizes," said InvestmentNews in a statement. "We invite firms to nominate candidates and companies who exemplify these outstanding accomplishments through their leadership, passion, creativity, and willingness to help others along the way." The Ascension Award was a new award this year saluting both representation and equity, recognizing firms with at least 30-50% proportion of women in their C-suite. Braun-Bostich & Associates' entire C-suite is made up of women, which allowed them to make the list and is something they're extremely proud of. In addition, about 75% of employees at the firm are women. Braun-Bostich was one of only two firms recognized with 100% of their C-suite executives being women. "Two milestones for gender representation in corporate leadership have emerged as the first and key criteria: 30% and 50%," said Joanne Cleaver, DEI Editor at InvestmentNews. "The second milestone is gender equity: 50% of senior executives. Women make up about half of the U.S. workforce overall, more than half of college graduates, and about half of the employees in management and professional occupations. But women are scarce in the C-suite, holding only 22% of those positions at financial services firms, according to longtime research and advocacy nonprofit Catalyst. These milestones frame the qualifications for the InvestmentNews Ascension Award, which recognizes the straightforward achievement of women comprising at least 30% of a winning organization's C-suite, up to full equity, at 50%. This merits recognition because it is so rare and because it is so powerful." To see the full list of Ascension Award winners and learn more about the awards and event, please click here . ABOUT BRAUN-BOSTICH & ASSOCIATES Braun-Bostich & Associates is a comprehensive financial planning firm and Registered Investment Advisor based in Canonsburg, PA, delivering a range of wealth management solutions to high-net-worth individuals, families, and businesses in order to help them meet their goals and optimize their financial life. Founded by Amy Braun-Bostich, CEO and Founding Partner, Braun-Bostich & Associates is focused on securing the wellbeing of clients and their loved ones for years to come. By creating strategies designed for their clients' unique needs, they help develop a roadmap to financial independence. Learn more at www.Braun-Bostich.com .
New ETSI Telemetry Standard Improves Automation for better End-User Quality of Experience
Fri, Dec 02, 2022 18:43 EST
New ETSI push method offers network operators scale, speed and automation Fiber to the Home optimized for end-users with real-time operation ETSI new Standard already implemented as a Proof of Concept As the scale and services offered through the Optical Access Networks increase, it is crucial to maintain network good operation and performance. To achieve this, the Optical Access Network monitoring can be improved when compared to existing traditional methods via automated real-time data collection. Telemetry enables this and transmits data from the optical line terminal (OLT) - i.e., the device at the endpoint of a passive optical network - in real-time to provide information to the data collection platform.
Tanzania PVoC Updated and Demystified Webinar a Complimentary Webinar from SGS
Fri, Dec 02, 2022 06:30 EST
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is hosting a complimentary webinar, 'Tanzania PVoC Updated and Demystified' on December 12, 2022 and February 2, 2023. This event will be presented by SGS's trade facilitation expert Craig Wilson and is aimed at all exporters of products to, and importers within, Tanzania. Businesses trading internationally can face difficulties when aiming to reach markets where regulatory requirements are strict and often volatile. Tanzania's Bureau of Standards has appointed SGS to implement a 24-month Product Verification of Conformity (PVoC) program, and a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is necessary for regulated goods. This requirement will be verified and tested in the country of supply in order for national standards, or approved equivalents and technical regulations, to be upheld in the interests of safety and quality. As the major provider of PVoC certification, SGS has the resources and expertise which businesses can tap in to. Presenter Craig Wilson will give an introduction and background to the program, as well as covering the certification routes which are available and the kind of documentation that is necessary for a CoC to be granted. Register now For more information: Email: cp.media@sgs.com Website: www.sgs.com/trade LinkedIn: sgs-consumer-goods-&-retail
365: AIGA Year in Design Winners Announced
Thu, Dec 01, 2022 11:00 EST
For Immediate Releas e: Thursday, December 1, 2022 Media Contact: Amy Gwiazdowski, amy_gwiazdowski@aiga.org 365: AIGA Year in Design Winners Announced AIGA Celebrates the Innovation and Inspiration of the Design Community New York, NY- AIGA, the professional association for design, is pleased to announce the winners of 365: AIGA Year in Design , a 360-degree view of design over 365 days. The competition, which was rebooted in 2022, celebrates designers, design teams, and their clients for effectively working together to design creative solutions for challenges presented by businesses and organizations during the calendar year 2021. This competition recognizes excellence and represents innovation across all categories of communication design, from print to web to service to spaces-both physical and virtual. With 466 entries from countries around the globe, including the United States, United Kingdom, Hungary, Philippines, Brazil, Canada, Croatia, Italy, Singapore, Turkey, and more, this year's jurors selected 51 entries that represent excellence in design. Selections from this year's jurors of the 2021 competition can be viewed in the Winners Gallery . "As we see the proliferation of communications across channels and experiences, design has the power to impart meaning with audiences, inspire them to act and create impact that helps change the world," said Ken Fox, 365: AIGA Year in Design Chair . "It was inspiring and energizing to facilitate the open and thoughtful discussion of this year's entries and to participate in the often vigorous debates." AIGA thanks this year's panel of esteemed jurors : Ken Fox (Jury Chair) Principal / Executive Creative Director, 50,000feet, Chicago, IL, Rafael Esquer , Creative Director, Alfalfa Studio, New York, NY, Min Lew , Executive Creative Director / Managing Partner, Base, New York, NY, Clement Mok , Design Instigator, The Design Office of Clement Mok, San Francisco, CA, Nakita Pope , Chief Chick / Brand Strategist, Branding Chicks, Atlanta, GA, and Jan Wilker , Co-Founder, karlssonwilker, New York, NY. Read what this year's jurors have to say about some of this year's designs: AMA Constructing Memory Interactive Art Book "Powerful and haunting stories found their canvas in this well thought-out, 360, analog-digital project that includes an interactive book, a series of videos, and augmented reality." - Rafael Esquer Inque Magazine (Issue One) "It's a pleasure to see a well-designed magazine with an added focus on its haptic beauty and impact. And the predetermined ending date of the magazine is an excellent gesture." - Jan Wilker OSU Design Lecture 2021 "An ode to hand-drawn letters. Wonderfully old-school, yet it feels very contemporary and personal. The letter scrawls are meticulously planned for legibility. Job well done." - Clement Mok Can you see the music? - music-driven dynamic brand identity for Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra "This brand identity takes a technical concept and applies it in such a way that you still see the organic nature of the music. It is an excellent example of what happens when designers collaborate with other disciplines." - Nakita Pope Love Ocean "Simple idea. Well executed holistically." - Min Lew The competition was first launched in 1924 as "Contemporary Printing for Commerce." Since then, it has been called: "Printing for Commerce" (1925-1953); "Design and Printing for Commerce/Fifty Advertisements of the Year" (1954-1967); "Communication Graphics" (1968-2000); and "365: AIGA Year in Design" (2001-2011). Design is at the heart of successful businesses and AIGA is committed to creating and restoring pathways for designers and design teams to raise awareness of their work and its impact. Competitions are instrumental in identifying emerging and hidden talent within the design community, recognizing effective visual design solutions in the marketplace, and communicating the added value of design to adjacent industries. Work selected by jurors will chronicle the contributions of design and designers to business value and visual culture. ###
Aerospace & Defense Components Manufacturer Announces New Name
Thu, Dec 01, 2022 09:04 EST
A portfolio of manufacturing businesses headquartered in Connecticut that provides mission critical components for aerospace, defense and medical markets has announced it is changing its name. AlphaCoin will now be named Alpha Metalcraft Group or AMG. The company's three manufacturing sites - Connecticut Coining, Gasser and GAR Electroforming - will retain their legal names but their customer facing names will be identified as Alpha Metalcraft Group. The company said it is changing the name to better identify its core competencies. "Metalcraft is a more appropriate description of the portfolio's capabilities,'' said John Boscia, Vice President, Business Development. "We want our portfolio of businesses to be recognized as market-leading manufacturers of products and services via unique metal forming processes." Based in Danbury, AMG provides high precision capabilities and sophisticated operations to leading original equipment manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers serving high growth and technology driven end markets, such as the aerospace, defense, and medical industries. The company's core capabilities, such as deep drawing and electroforming, enable it to provide customers with reliable, high-quality, and high precision components while ensuring customers can achieve critical timelines. AMG initiated the name change to dissociate from cryptocurrency and to reduce confusion with potential customers and acquisitions. "We had the affiliation to Alpha in our previous name and Metalcraft generically yet more appropriately describes what our manufacturing sites do,'' said Alec Searle, CEO. No additional changes are planned for the company, but it is actively seeking a new acquisition. GAR is based in Danbury, Connecticut Coining in Bethel, Conn. and Gasser in Commack, N.Y. "While the sites will continue to operate autonomously and retain their legal names, individuality and heritage, the idea behind all sites utilizing the Alpha Metalcraft name is to promote and leverage synergies, teamwork and a one company image,'' Boscia said. About Alpha Metalcraft Group : Alpha Metalcraft Group is headquartered in, Danbury, Conn. with manufacturing sites in Connecticut (Connecticut Coining, GAR Electroforming) and New York (Gasser). It offers a portfolio of unique metal forming capabilities to aerospace, defense, and medical imaging companies, providing drawn, electroformed, machined, ground, polished, and welded components, and assemblies. The company brings together more than two centuries of experience to serve the global aerospace industry, including original equipment manufacturers and Tier 1, 2 and 3 suppliers.
