World Skateboarding Federation Announces Global Series of "Skate 2020" Summits

First Summit Scheduled for South Africa Oct. 7 to Coincide with Skateboarding World Championships: Summits to Take Place in Canada, Vietnam, Mexico, Scotland and United States

LONDON, UK--(September 24, 2015) - World Skateboarding Federation, a governing body for skateboarding, announced it will host a series of "Skate 2020" summits, touching five continents over the next year to organize, unify and support skateboarding and prepare for the possibility of its inclusion in future Olympic games.

The summit schedule is:
Oct. 7: Kimberley, South Africa. Hosted by the South African Skateboarding Federation
Nov. 3: Montreal, Canada. Hosted by Canadian Skateboarding Federation
Feb. 20: Mexico City, Mexico. Hosted by Federación de Skateboarding Mexicano
May 7: Vietnam. Hosted by Vietnam Skateboarding Federation
June 11: Glasgow, Scotland. Hosted by Skateboard Scotland
July 16: New York, United States. Hosted by World Skateboarding Federation

The first summit will take place in South Africa during the upcoming Skateboarding World Championships in Kimberley, on October 7. The "Skate 2020 Agenda" was introduced by WSF at the inaugural Global Skateboarding Summit in Istanbul in May and will inform the agenda for each summit. The Skate 2020 Agenda:
Develop 40 National Governing Organizations over the next two years (WSF is already working with 23 countries)
Create a minimum of 17 WSF-sanctioned regional and national contests that feed into national championship events
Create and support a global youth development program
Create a universal scoring system
Host International Judging Conference (Inaugural contest to be held in October 2015 in Kimberley, South Africa to coincide with Skateboarding World Championships)

The summits will also seek to unify skateboarding, discuss ways to help grow and form local, national and international skateboarding federations and associations, to help the industry prepare for Olympic requirements such as Wada testing and gender equity, as well as discuss the framework for an internationally agreed upon format, unified scoring system, and qualifications for skateboarders to earn entry.

"There is much to be discussed in order to prepare for the Olympics. These summits will help organize federations and bring key parties together to discuss the framework for the Skateboarding World Championships and possible Olympics," said Tim McFerran, President of World Skateboarding Federation. "This is a huge opportunity for skateboarding and we are encouraged by the Olympic conversations taking place and think it will bring so much benefit to the skateboarders, the fans and the youth around the world who will be inspired by these incredible athletes. We want to make sure the format is progressive and exciting, that the content production is first class and there is a transparent qualification structure and contest circuit along with unified judging and scoring systems. These summits, hosted on five continents, will bring all interested parties together to share ideas and come to agreement on these key topics. We look forward to working with all of the skateboarding organizations around the world."

About World Skateboarding Federation (WSF)

World Skateboarding Federation, a governing body of skateboarding, is the only federation to represent all disciplines of skateboarding including street, vert, downhill, slalom, bowl and freestyle. The WSF Board of Directors are: Tim McFerran, United States; Sasha Steinhorst, United States; Maga McWhinnie, Peru; Paco Manzanares, Mexico; Stefan Lilis Akesson, Sweden; Kevin Harris, Canada; Cyrille Harnay, France; Felix Arguelles, United States; Tim Gavin, United States; Jani Söderhäll, France; and Hans Koraeus, Sweden.

WSF actively donates skateboards to youth in poverty stricken areas and supports worthwhile skateboarding organizations like Skateistan in South Africa. WSF is currently working with a number of countries, providing leadership and expertise, to help them form national federations. The mission of the World Skateboarding Federation is to promote skateboarding around the world; to grow and connect relevant skateboarders, organizations, brands and manufacturers for the further expansion of skateboarding; to assist in building quality skateparks; to provide financial assistance to top skateboarders to attend international skateboarding contests; to create a centralized judging and scoring system; and to provide a platform to create national, regional and local contests. World Skateboarding federation is a USA incorporated nonprofit 501-c-3 organization.


For more information visit www.worldskateboardingfederation.org or follow us on social media @WSk8Federation on Twitter and World Skateboarding Federation on Facebook.



SOURCE: World Skateboarding Federation through Marketwired by press release ©

Honda’s renewed line up is the first step towards growth in Europe

• Investment in new models and manufacturing capabilities signals Honda’s intention to work towards European sales of 200,000 units annually
• Next generation Civic to be launched from early 2017, with five door variant to be built at Honda’s UK Manufacturing plant (HUM)
• HUM to benefit from €270 million investment

A fully refreshed 2015 model line-up, news on further new models and a significant investment in its UK manufacturing base signal Honda’s intention to work towards a European sales level of 200,000 units annually. Philip Ross, Senior Vice President of Honda Motor Europe, announced this as part of the company’s press conference at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Mr Ross outlined plans to build on the momentum created by a series of new model introductions in 2015. The launch of the all-new HR-V and Jazz, the exciting Civic Type R high-performance hatchback, and refreshed Civic and CR-V families have given Honda one of the youngest product ranges in the industry. Early response from customers and media alike has given a new momentum to the brand in Europe.

“We are confident that this range will satisfy and delight our existing customers, and bring in many more, as the breadth of our range and the quality of our product broadens the appeal of Honda to an ever wider audience,” said Ross.

The focus on Honda’s commitment to pushing boundaries will be magnified again next year, with the start of mass production of the all-new NSX, a hybrid supercar featuring cutting edge technological advancements that epitomise Honda’s daring spirit.

Ross also confirmed the 10^th generation Civic is scheduled for a European launch from early 2017, with production of five door variants exclusively from Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM). In order to prepare for this new model, Honda has invested €270m in new production technologies and processes, bringing the total investment in the site to €3bn since 1985.

“2015 has been an important year for Honda, but it’s very much the start of things to come,” concluded Ross.


Source Honda Text and picture ©

NIKE, INC. Reports Fiscal 2016 First Quarter Results

- Revenues up 5 percent to $8.4 billion; 14 percent growth excluding currency changes
- Diluted earnings per share up 23 percent to $1.34
- Worldwide futures orders up 9 percent; 17 percent growth excluding currency changes

NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE) reported financial results for its first quarter ended August 31, 2015. Diluted earnings per share increased 23% due to broad-based revenue growth, gross margin expansion, selling and administrative expense leverage, a lower effective tax rate and a lower average share count.

“Fiscal 2016 is off to a great start,” said Mark Parker, President and CEO of NIKE, Inc. “Our relentless pace of growth is driven by our proven strategy of putting the consumer first, obsessing innovation in everything we do and leveraging our powerful portfolio. We’re well-positioned to continue to deliver long-term growth that is both sustainable and profitable.”

First Quarter Income Statement Review 

Revenues for NIKE, Inc. increased 5 percent to $8.4 billion, up 14 percent on a currency-neutral basis.
• Revenues for the NIKE Brand were $7.9 billion, up 15 percent on a currency-neutral basis driven by growth in every geography and nearly every key category.
• Revenues for Converse were $555 million, up 3 percent on a currency-neutral basis, mainly driven by strong growth in the United States, partially offset by a decline in the United Kingdom.

Gross margin expanded 90 basis points to 47.5 percent. The increase was primarily attributable to higher average selling prices and continued growth in the higher margin Direct to Consumer (DTC) business, partially offset by higher product input and warehousing costs.

Selling and administrative expense increased 4 percent to $2.6 billion. Demand creation expense was $832 million, down 7 percent, reflecting favorable comparisons against higher investment in support of the World Cup in the first quarter of fiscal 2015. Operating overhead expense increased 10 percent to $1.7 billion, reflecting continued growth in the DTC business and targeted investments in infrastructure and consumer-focused digital capabilities.

Other income, net was $31 million, comprised primarily of net foreign currency exchange gains. For the quarter, the Company estimates the year-over-year change in foreign currency-related gains and losses included in other income, net, combined with the impact of changes in exchange rates on the translation of foreign currency-denominated profits, decreased pretax income by approximately $151 million.

The effective tax rate was 18.4 percent, compared to 21.7 percent for the same period last year, primarily due to an increase in the proportion of earnings from operations outside of the United States, which are generally subject to a lower tax rate, as well as certain non-recurring items recognized in the quarter.

Net income increased 23 percent to $1.2 billion while diluted earnings per share increased 23 percent to $1.34, reflecting strong revenue growth, gross margin expansion, selling and administrative expense leverage, a lower tax rate and a decrease in the weighted average diluted common shares outstanding.

August 31, 2015 Balance Sheet Review 

Inventories for NIKE, Inc. were $4.4 billion, up 10 percent from August 31, 2014, driven primarily by an 8 percent increase in NIKE Brand wholesale unit inventories. Increases in average product cost per unit, as well as higher inventories associated with growth in DTC, were largely offset by changes in foreign currency rates.

Cash and short-term investments were $5.4 billion, $829 million higher than last year primarily as a result of growth in net income and collateral received from counterparties as a result of hedging activities more than offsetting share repurchases and higher dividends.

Share Repurchases 

During the first quarter, NIKE, Inc. repurchased a total of 5.5 million shares for approximately $588 million as part of the four-year, $8.0 billion program approved by the Board of Directors in September 2012. As of the end of the first quarter, a total of 86.4 million shares had been repurchased under this program for approximately $6.5 billion, at an average cost of $75.70 per share.

Futures Orders 

As of the end of the quarter, worldwide futures orders for NIKE Brand athletic footwear and apparel scheduled for delivery from September 2015 through January 2016 were 9 percent higher than orders reported for the same period last year, and 17 percent higher on a currency-neutral basis.*

Conference Call 

 

NIKE, Inc. management will host a conference call beginning at approximately 2:00 p.m. PT on September 24, 2015, to review fiscal first quarter results. The conference call will be broadcast live over the Internet and can be accessed at http://investors.nike.com. For those unable to listen to the live broadcast, an archived version will be available at the same location through 9:00 p.m. PT, October 1, 2015.

Download PDF of FY16 Q1 Schedule and Tables
Download PDF of FY16 Q1 Combined News Release and Schedule and Tables 
Download PDF of FY16 Q1 Unofficial Transcript

About NIKE, Inc. 

NIKE, Inc., based near Beaverton, Oregon, is the world's leading designer, marketer and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories for a wide variety of sports and fitness activities. Wholly-owned NIKE, Inc. subsidiary brands include Converse, which designs, distributes and licenses casual sneakers, apparel and accessories; and Hurley, which designs and distributes a line of action sports and youth lifestyle apparel and accessories.

For more information, NIKE, Inc.’s earnings releases and other financial information are available on the Internet at http://investors.nike.com and individuals can follow @Nike.



Source Nike ©

Amer Sports Corporation Interim Report January-June 2015

Amer Sports Corporation / STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE / July 29, 2015 at 1:00 pm

Amer Sports Corporation Interim Report January-June 2015

APRIL-JUNE 2015

• Net sales EUR 461.1 million (April-June 2014: 376.1). In local currencies, net sales increased by 9%. Excluding the Louisville Slugger acquisition, net sales increased by 7%.
• Gross margin 44.1% (43.9).
• EBIT excluding non-recurring items (NRI) EUR -9.0 million (-17.6). Non-recurring items were EUR -6.6 million (-1.2). All NRIs related to 2014 restructuring now recorded.
• Earnings per share excluding NRI EUR -0.11 (-0.16).
• Free cash flow EUR 11.5 million (-38.7).
• Outlook for 2015 unchanged.

JANUARY-JUNE 2015

• Net sales EUR 1,037.0 million (January-June 2014: 877.6). In local currencies, net sales increased by 7%. Excluding the Louisville Slugger acquisition, net sales increased by 6%.
• Gross margin 45.1% (44.1).
• EBIT excluding non-recurring items EUR 24.6 million (3.0). Non-recurring items were EUR -8.0 million (-1.2). All NRIs related to 2014 restructuring now recorded.
• Earnings per share excluding NRI EUR 0.04 (-0.09).
• Free cash flow EUR 54.5 million (5.5).

OUTLOOK

In 2015, Amer Sports net sales in local currencies is expected to increase and EBIT margin excluding non-recurring items to improve from 2014, despite challenging market conditions. The company will continue to focus on apparel and footwear growth, consumer-driven product and marketing innovation, commercial expansion and operational excellence.

KEY FIGURES

EUR million	4-6/2015	4-6/2014	1-6/2015	1-6/2014	2014
Net sales	461.1	376.1	1,037.0	877.6	2,228.7
Gross profit	203.5	165.0	467.7	387.3	979.0
Gross profit %	44.1	43.9	45.1	44.1	43.9
EBIT excluding NRI	-9.0	-17.6	24.6	3.0	168.3
EBIT % excluding NRI			2.4	0.3	7.6
NRI*)	-6.6	-1.2	-8.0	-1.2	-54.2
EBIT total	-15.6	-18.8	16.6	1.8	114.1
EBIT %			1.6	0.2	5.1
Financing income and expenses	-9.4	-7.9	-17.7	-17.1	-37.1
Earnings before taxes	-25.0	-26.7	-1.1	-15.3	77.0
Net result	-18.0	-19.1	-0.8	-10.9	55.4
Earnings per share excluding NRI, EUR	-0.11	-0.16	0.04	-0.09	0.80
Free cash flow**)	11.5	-38.7	54.5	5.5	53.5
Equity ratio, % at period end			37.7	40.6	38.8
Net debt/equity at period end			0.68	0.63	0.50
Personnel at period end			7,880	7,490	7,630
Average rates used, EUR/USD	1.10	1.37	1.12	1.37	1.33

*) Non-recurring items (NRI) are exceptional transactions that are not related to normal business operations. The most common non-recurring items are capital gains, exceptional write-downs, provisions for planned restructuring, and penalties. Non-recurring items are normally specified individually if they have a material impact on EBIT.

**) Cash flow from operating activities - net capital expenditures (total capital expenditure less proceeds from sale of assets)

HEIKKI TAKALA, PRESIDENT AND CEO:

We continued to deliver broad-based organic growth in the second quarter, driven by our strategic growth areas. We also continued to drive profit improvement especially in Ball Sports where our mix kept shifting toward higher margin items such as performance tennis rackets showing strong topline momentum. The 2014 restructuring has contributed positively to Ball Sports which is significantly healthier today than before.

On top of driving organic growth, we have this year concluded the acquisition of Louisville Slugger for Baseball acceleration, and Sports Tracker for building a scalable Amer Sports online sports service. In addition, we just acquired Queenax, a functional training systems provider, to close a gap in our Fitness offering vs an important consumer trend. These acquisitions follow our strategic priorities, providing us platforms for further acceleration. Acceleration continues to be the name of the game, as we see our strategies working as planned and we can continue to execute with confidence.     

For further information, please contact:

Heikki Takala, President and CEO, tel. +358 20 712 2510
Jussi Siitonen, CFO, tel. +358 20 712 2511
Päivi Antola, Director, Corporate Communications and IR, tel. +358 20 712 2537

TELEPHONE CONFERENCE

An English-language conference call for investors and analysts will be held at 3:00 p.m. Finnish time. To participate in the conference call, please call +44(0)20 3427 1906 (UK/international dial-in number), confirmation code 6521059. The conference can also be followed live via http://edge.media-server.com/m/p/eepbmgv2. A replay of the conference call and a transcript will be available later. The replay number is +44 (0)20 3427 0598, passcode 6521059.

CAPITAL MARKETS DAY

Amer Sports is hosting a Capital Markets Day for analysts and portfolio managers in Helsinki on August 27 and in London on September 7.

THIRD QUARTER RESULTS BULLETIN

Amer Sports will publish its Q3/2015 results bulletin on Thursday, October 22, 2015 at approximately 1:00 pm Finnish time.

INVESTOR RELATIONS NEWSLETTER

Subscribe to Amer Sports Investor Relations Newsletter at www.amersports.com/investors/subscribe.

DISTRIBUTION

NASDAQ OMX Helsinki, main media, www.amersports.com

About AMER SPORTS:

Amer Sports (www.amersports.com) is a sporting goods company with internationally recognized brands including Salomon, Wilson, Atomic, Arc'teryx, Mavic, Suunto, and Precor. The company's technically advanced sports equipment, footwear, and apparel improve performance and increase the enjoyment of sports and outdoor activities. The Group's business is balanced by its broad portfolio of sports and products and a presence in all major markets. Amer Sports shares are listed on the NASDAQ Helsinki stock exchange (AMEAS).

• Amer Sports Interim Report Q2/2015

Source Amer Sports ©

Introducing Thermacell Repellents Max Life 12-hr Mat for Spring 2016

Bedford, Mass. (Summer 2015) – Thermacell® Repellents Inc., a leading manufacturer of area mosquito repellent products, is introducing the Max Life repellent mat that provides 12 hours of protection from mosquitoes, black flies and no-see-ums. Now you can have Thermacell protection that can last all day or all night.

“The Thermacell Max Life mat with 12 hours of continuous protection will last three times as long as our regular repellent mats, so you can enjoy outdoor activities for extended periods of time,” said Allegra Lowitt, Thermacell chief marketing officer. “Whether you are camping all day, fishing from sun up to sun down, or having a great backyard bash that lasts into the wee hours, the new Max Life mat has you covered. Members of the armed forces and outdoorsmen asked for this long duration mat and we’re excited to bring it to market for them.”

The Max Life Mat works with the entire collection of Thermacell products including repellers, torches and lanterns. Thermacell products work in minutes and Max Life protection can now last up to 12 continuous hours. By heating the mat with a butane cartridge, the repellent is vaporized for effective, fast coverage.

Rather than using a spray repellent, Thermacell uses a non-topical patented technology to create a 15ft x15ft zone of protection from mosquitoes and other biting insects that covers the average size campsite. The repellent is virtually odorless and silent. The Max Life Mat refill has four mats and four cartridges in a box, providing 48 hours of protection and will be available at major retailers with a MSRP of $20.99.

Mosquito Repellent Features:

• Thermacell’s powerful mosquito protection creates a 15 ft. x 15 ft. zone of protection from biting pests in minutes that lasts for hours
• Repels mosquitoes, black flies and no-see-ums
• Silent and virtually odorless
• Max Life Mat works in all Thermacell Repellent products including repellers, torches and lanterns.
• Repellent is a synthetic copy of the natural repellent found in chrysanthemums
• Repellent mats are available in two options, lasting 4 hours or 12 hours
 
About Thermacell Repellents, Inc.

Thermacell Repellents, Inc., headquartered in Bedford, MA, designs, manufactures and markets area mosquito repellent solutions that create a 15 ft x15 ft. zone of protection in minutes from mosquitoes, black flies and other flying insects.  Thermacell products are lightweight, silent, and virtually odor free. Thermacell can be found at most outdoor, sporting goods, home improvement and mass merchant retailers in the US and is also available internationally in more than 20 countries. 

For more information on Thermacell and its complete line of repellent products, consumer reviews, or store locations, visit www.Thermacell.com or call 1-866-753-3837





Source Thermacell Repellents, Inc by Nick Brosnan  through press release ©

Tencent Sports Showcases "Internet+Sports" Concept at Sports Matters

SINGAPORE, Sept. 17, 2015 -- Tencent Sports discussed the idea of "Internet + Sports" at the highly anticipated Sports Matters conference on September 16th 2015.

Connect All with Sports: Exploring the New "Internet+ Sports" Ecosystem

Sports Matters aims to building a healthy and sustainable sports industry in Asia with elites around world. As a top-flight Chinese Internet company, Tencent was invited to share in the conference its input on China's sports industry in the era of mobile Internet.

"We hope the Internet can be connected with sports events/services and personal fitness management," said Yuefeng Xie (sam), General Manager of Marketing and Business Development of Tencent Sports. "The idea of sports can be deepened and widened under the concept of 'Internet+.' By developing a full range of live events, interviews with stars, community building, themed games as well as online payment, it is possible to form a complete 'Internet+sports' ecosystem."

Tencent has already laid the groundwork by acquiring the media rights to numerous sports events in 2015. Not only has Tencent become China's only digital partner for the next five NBA seasons, but it has also partnered with the Premier League, Bundesliga, UEFA Champions League, NFL and other major international sports events. In the meantime, in order to bring new content to fans, Tencent Sports has also launched NBA Miracles, Rise Beyond and Superstars among an array of self-produced shows.

As for social interaction, Tencent Sports is persistently working to build and enrich the sports community in China. Recently, the official Arsenal community has been launched. In addition, Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Rajon Rondo, Dwight Howard and other NBA stars have joined Tencent Sports communities as "circle masters" for their respective teams. Tencent Sports continues to increase user loyalty with its superior resources and strong social genes.

In this regard, Xie described the vision of Tencent Sports: "In our vision, you will be able to watch the world's most influential live events, such as the NBA, Premier League and UEFA Champions League, and post comments and interact with other Internet users. Above all, we want to build a platform through which all sports are connected under the concept of 'Internet+', achieving online and offline interconnectivity."

Users will be able to make appointments directly with their fitness trainers, get hold of people with common interests online and place orders in real time to book basketball courts before making online payments. In the meantime, Tencent Sports will provide big-data-based services for individualized health and recreational management.

"To realize 'Internet+' ecosystem integration, we will connect sports to individual, daily sports activities," stated Xie.

Winning with Global Partners in China's Sports Market

The Chinese government has put the sports industry at the forefront of the nation's development scheme. In October 2014, the State Council, or China's Cabinet, issued the Opinions on Accelerating the Development of the Sports Industry and Promoting Consumer Spending on Sports, setting out that China's sports population is expected to reach 500 million and the sports industry to be worth five trillion yuan by 2025.

It is within this context that business giants including Tencent, Alibaba, Wanda Group and LeTV Sports are racing to prepare for the rapid growth of China's sports industry over the next decade. In this hyper-competitive market, Tencent has always been in the lead, continuingly expanding in the domestic market and ggressively developing its overseas resources.

"China's per capita GDP already reached 7,575 US dollars last year, suggesting that it has entered a new stage of economic development. However, the sports industry accounted for only 0.6% of China's GDP, far below the global average of 2%, which means that China's sports industry is about to take off," said Xie. "We hope to work with our worldwide partners to increase the influence of sports and promote its commercialization in China, achieving a win-win situation for all."

Since the beginning of September, Tencent Sports has been a regular presence at international exhibitions. Just earlier this month, Tencent attended the Soccerex Global Convention held in Manchester, England. Soccerex is well known as a leading platform converging industry standouts including suppliers, manufacturers and buyers from the world of soccer.

By making an appearance at Sports Matters, Tencen Sports once again acquired an opportunity to trade insights with global business leaders and to make the voice heard in the affair of sports media rights.

In possession of top-level sports rights, strong community platforms and proven operational capacities, Tencent Sports will keep racing forward with respects to the innovation of live broadcast and contents operation and never cease the steps to the ultimate goal of connecting everyone in need of sports.

Contact: Deng Wei/ +86-10-56479534/ wei.deng@bluefocus.com




Source: Tencent through PRNewswire by press release ©

Krimson Klover Gives Back

Boulder, CO (September 22, 2015) — Krimson Klover, the Colorado-based lifestyle brand known for high-quality women’s apparel, donates a portion of proceeds to First Descents; a truly inspiring and progressive organization working with those living with cancer.

This winter season, Krimson Klover will donate 5% of the proceeds from its beautiful new Sleigh Ride sweater to First Descents for its work with young active cancer patients. Those who buy one of these gorgeous sweaters not only get the perfect gift, but also help make the holidays special for someone else.

The program that First Descents offers is a life-changing experience for their very deserving participants. What they do is simply amazing,”explains Rhonda Swenson, founder and owner of Krimson Klover.

First Descents offers young adult cancer fighters and survivors a free outdoor adventure experience, empowering them to climb, paddle and surf beyond their diagnosis, defy their cancer, reclaim their lives and connect with others doing the same. Founded in 2001 by pro- kayaker, Brad Ludden, whose life was impacted by his own aunt’s battle with cancer in her thirties, First Descents began by offering young cancer patients kayak trips.

The trips enabled participants to start “living beyond their disease”, giving them hope, self-confidence and meaning while mitigating depression and anxiety. First Descents now offers mountaineering, surfing, rock climbing and kayak programs in 11 states and 4 countries, and serves over 1000, 18-39 year-olds every year.

Watch their short video.
Visit the First Descents Website.

Krimson Klover offers a variety of stunning knits, certain to make this winter memorable with hand-painted base layers, flattering sweater dresses, patterned tights, novelty sweaters, scarves, and snowflake socks—all made from luxurious natural fibers like cashmere and ultrafine Merino wool.
Krimson Klover apparel is designed for active, passionate women who care about the quality of their clothing and the story behind it. Krimson Klover is female-owned and operated, with a commitment to environmental and social responsibility.

The Sleigh Ride sweater is available in the following color ways: Black/Ivory and Red, Grey /Ivory and Coral, Coral/Ivory and Grey.

About Krimson Klover

Krimson Klover, a Boulder, Colorado based company specializing in luxurious, feminine clothing for the fashion and resort industry. Krimson Klover distributes exclusively through specialty retailers and fine catalogs in the United States and Canada. The company is committed to environmental and social responsibility, so uses natural fiber yarns from sources that respect animals, employees and the environment. www.krimsonklover.com

Source Krimson Klover ©

Waylens Secures $2.2 Million in Funding for First Product Launch

Intelligent Camera System Startup Secures Funding to Develop Innovative Technology for Automotive Industry

BOSTON, MA--( Sep 22, 2015) - Waylens, an intelligent camera system company based in Boston, has announced $2.2 million in external funding secured. The startup has allocated its funding to launch a high-performance, score-keeping camera system for enhancing the driving experience. Investors in the round include IDG Capital Partners and E14 Fund, which was launched to help researchers coming out of the MIT Media Lab start companies.

"Waylens' exciting new product gives auto enthusiasts a unique new way to enjoy and share their driving experiences," said David Strand, president of E14 Fund. "Waylens has jumpstarted their development stage, and this funding positions them as a serious contender in the automotive tech industry."

The founding team includes two MIT Media Lab grads: Chief Technology Officer Dawei Shen and Chief Creative Officer Phil Salesses. The duo met while studying at MIT in 2010 and are now bringing MIT Media Lab innovation to the world of automotive technology.

Waylens will fully launch and open pre-orders for the product on Kickstarter in October 2015.

About Waylens

Waylens is a Boston-based tech startup creating the next big thing in automotive technology, including an intelligent camera system capable of sensing its environment and merging data with video to create compelling visual experiences. The first product will be a high performance, score-keeping camera making it easier than ever to share driving experiences.

For more information about Waylens, visit www.waylens.com or follow the company on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.



SOURCE: Waylens through Marketwired by press release ©


Media Contact: Raven Brajdic/ Uproar PR for Waylens/ 321-236-0102 x226

Company Contact: Mike Schmidt/ Co-founder & CMO/ Waylens Inc./ 404-895-8950

INTRODUCING BRP’S FIRST UTILITY SIDE-BY-SIDE VEHICLE: THE CAN-AM DEFENDER

Can-Am Defender family: BRP’s solution for consumers in the utility side-by-side market. © BRP 2015

• Can-Am Defender: A utility vehicle for farmers, hunters and estate owners
• Can-Am Spyder: Expansion of F3 line-up
• Sea-Doo: New 300-hp Rotax 1630 ACE engine takes riding to the next level

Nashville, Tennessee, September 21, 2015– BRP (TSX:DOO) introduced its first utility side-by-side vehicle, the Can-Am Defender, at its semi-annual dealer meeting where it was met with great enthusiasm by the approximately 2,300 dealers and distributors in attendance from 65 countries.
“This event is one of our biggest ever! It demonstrates the strength of our distribution network, its enthusiasm for our new products and its commitment to our brands,” said Anne Bélec, senior vice-president, Global Brand and Strategy. “They are looking for products that will appeal to consumers by their design and technologies as well as their comfort, durability and performance.”

New Can-Am Defender utility side-by-side vehicle

For those who know the Can-Am brand, BRP makes its debut in the utility side-by-side segment by injecting some of the Can-Am DNA into the Defender model. The Can‑Am Defender vehicle was designed and engineered from the ground up, to establish new standards in terms of torque and power, as well as versatility to cater to all types of outdoor activities. BRP leveraged its proven Rotax engine technology to create a work-focused version of the durable V-Twin Rotax engines, specially calibrated to offer the best torque of the industry: the new Rotax 50-hp HD8 or 72-hp HD10 engines.

Can-Am Spyder

For 2016, BRP will expand its presence in the largest segment of the motorcycle industry, the cruiser segment, with additions of the F3-T and F3 Limited models to its existing F3, F3-S and F3 Special Series vehicles in the Can-Am Spyder F3 line-up. These new models are loaded with comfort and convenience features to offer greater freedom, flexibility, and extra cargo space. All Spyder F3 models are equipped with BRP’s exclusive UFit system that allows riders to adjust their riding position to find a truly customized fit, feel and riding experience.

Sea-Doo takes riding to the next level... again!

Many innovations to the Sea-Doo line-up, including the first intelligent braking system (iBR), first on-water suspension and more recently the Sea-Doo Spark watercraft have made the Sea-Doo brand number one in the personal watercraft industry. In 2016, BRP is taking it to the next level with a 300-hp model equipped with the new Rotax 1630 ACE engine: bigger, more efficient and more powerful than any engine ever produced under the Rotax brand. The combination of the increased power and efficiency of the Rotax 1630 ACE engine, the confidence provided by the advanced ergonomics of the Ergolock system and the control and peace of mind that come with the intuitive iBR system will bring the rider experience to the next level.

NASCAR sponsorship

In addition to introducing an array of parts, accessories and clothing (PAC) to match the riding style of Can-Am and Sea-Doo customers, BRP also announced a partnership agreement with Kappa,a sport performance clothing manufacturer, who will introduce four clothing collections, including one exclusive to BRP’s Can-Am dealer network. Through this agreement, BRP’s Can-Am brand becomes a sponsor of Kappa’s GoFAS racing team in NASCAR’s 2016 Sprint Cup.

“We are putting everything in place so that 2016 can be a phenomenal year for BRP, its dealers and our customers,” concluded Bélec.“We have great products: we are entering the side-by-side utility segment, the largest in that industry, with a vehicle that stands out from all the others with tough features, capable performance and clever adaptability. We are also expanding our Can-Am and Sea-Doo line-ups, offering strong PAC and adding fantastic product recognition through the NASCAR sponsorship.”

About BRP

BRP (TSX:DOO) is a global leader in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and marketing of powersports vehicles and propulsion systems. Its portfolio includes Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft, Can-Am all-terrain and side-by-side vehicles, Can-Am Spyder roadsters, Evinrude and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts, motorcycles and recreational aircraft. BRP supports its line of products with a dedicated parts, accessories and clothing business. With annual sales of over CA$3.5 billion from 107 countries, the Company employs approximately 7,600 people worldwide.

www.brp.com
@BRPnews

Ski-Doo, Lynx, Sea-Doo, Evinrude, Rotax, Can-Am, Spyder, Defender, ACE, iBr, Ergolock, UFit and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

For corporate information:
Johanne Denault/Manager, Corporate Communications/Tel: 450.532.5173/johanne.denault@brp.com
For product information:
Brian Manning /BRP Public Relations /Tel: 913.424.9709 /brian.manning@brp.com


For a high-resolution image, please access the BRP Media Centre here and sign in with the following credentials:
Username: media.brp/Password: brpimages


Source BRP  ©

Downlite to Install New Wastewater Recovery System

New Sustainability Initiative Will Reduce Annual Water Consumption by Millions of Gallons

Mason, OH – In response to the growing concerns over water scarcity and the increasingly stringent municipal water treatment requirements, Downlite, a major down and feather processor and supplier of responsibly-sourced performance fills to the outdoor, home furnishings and hospitality markets, is installing a new wastewater recovery system that will allow the company to recycle and reuse up to 99% of the water used to clean and sanitize its high-quality down and feather fills.

Downlite’s advanced down processing facility based just outside of Cincinnati, has the capacity to supply more than 50,000 lbs. of clean and ready down fill material per week, which requires a large quantity of water to ensure the raw materials have been sufficiently cleaned and sterilized.

“Our wastewater recovery system will collect all of the contaminated water discharged from the wash – filter and treat it – and then return it back into the system to be reused,” said Josh Werthaiser, CFO Downlite, who is spearheading this sustainability initiative. “The system has the capacity to reduce Downlite’s annual water consumption by up to 54 million gallons.”

The company has partnered with water treatment specialist, AOP-TRIDENT, to develop its custom wastewater recovery system, which will return clean, filtered water back into the wash process. Construction of Downlite’s wastewater recovery system will begin this fall and be up and running by April 2016.

Downlite’s wastewater recovery initiative follows its successful scrap recycling and LED light-saving programs. Each year, Downlite recovers and recycles more than 95% of its internal fiber scrap into usable materials – equating to more than 1 million pounds of material that would otherwise be lost to landfills. Additionally, polyester batting and other quilted scrap waste, is baled and sold to an outside source that regrinds the material to be used in other industrial end-use textiles. The company also shreds trimmings from mattress pads to be used in less expensive poly-pillows and dog beds.
Replacing traditional lighting fixtures with motion sensing, high efficiency LED lighting at two of Downlite’s U.S. plants has reduced electricity use by more than 55 percent. Plans are now in place to upgrade another two of its processing facilities in 2016.

About Downlite

Downlite is America’s premiere manufacturer of down and feather, and synthetic bedding products. Its products – comforters, pillows, mattress pads, and feather and fiber beds – are sold under private label and national brand names in leading department stores, specialty stores, and catalogs, as well as to the Hospitality Industry. Downlite also supplies high-quality bulk fills to furniture, outerwear and sleeping bag manufacturers around the globe. Downlite is a bluesign® system partner, TDS and RDS certified, and a proud member of the American Down & Feather Council (ADFC). www.downliteoutdoor.com


Source Downlite by Nancy Fendler through press release ©