The Power of Reactive PR
Tue, Mar 10, 2026 11:11 EDT
Reactive PR is the practice of responding quickly and strategically to breaking news, trending topics, or industry developments in order to secure media coverage. News breaks in real time, trends emerge overnight, and conversations evolve by the hour. So this means for brands looking to stay relevant and visible, reactive PR has become one of the most powerful tools in the communications armoury. Rather than planning campaigns months in advance, reactive public relations focuses on agility, awareness, and speed. When it is executed correctly, it enables brands to join conversations that audiences and journalists are already engaged in. What Is Reactive PR? Reactive PR involves monitoring the news agenda and identifying opportunities where a brand can provide timely commentary, insight, or data. This could be anything from a major policy announcement and economic shift to a viral social media trend or seasonal event. For example, if new research highlights a change in consumer spending habits, a retail brand can provide expert commentary on what this means for shoppers. If extreme weather conditions dominate headlines, a travel or motoring company can share safety advice or data insights. The key is relevance. The brand must have a genuine and credible reason to contribute to the conversation. Journalists are constantly searching for expert voices, unique statistics, and fresh perspectives to strengthen their stories. Reactive PR bridges that gap by delivering useful information at exactly the right time. Why Reactive PR Works Ultimately, the success of reactive PR lies in its alignment with the existing news cycle. Instead of trying to create attention from scratch, brands attach themselves to topics that are already generating public interest. There are several reasons why this approach is so effective. First, it increases the likelihood of media coverage. Journalists often work to tight deadlines and need reliable sources quickly. A well-crafted, relevant comment delivered promptly can be the difference between being included in a national article or missing out on the opportunity entirely. Second, it enhances brand authority. When a spokesperson appears in reputable publications offering informed analysis, audiences begin to associate that brand with expertise and credibility. Over time, this builds trust. Third, reactive PR can significantly boost SEO performance. Media coverage frequently includes backlinks to a brand's website, and these high-authority links remain one of the strongest ranking factors in search engine algorithms, helping to improve domain authority and organic visibility. Finally, it is cost-effective. Compared to large-scale campaigns that require months of planning and significant budgets, reactive PR relies more on strategic thinking and strong media relationships rather than production costs. The Importance of Speed Speed is the defining characteristic of reactive PR; a response that arrives a day late, or even a few hours late, is rarely useful. News cycles move at a rapid pace, and journalists need comments within hours, sometimes minutes. To respond effectively, brands need clear internal processes. This includes having approved spokespersons, pre-agreed messaging guidelines, and a communications team empowered to act quickly. Without these foundations, even the most relevant opportunity can slip away. Monitoring tools also play a crucial role in this process. Tracking trending keywords, breaking news alerts, and journalist requests on platforms like X allows PR professionals to identify openings before competitors do. However, speed should never compromise quality as accuracy, clarity, and relevance remain essential. A rushed but poorly considered response can damage credibility rather than enhance it. Adding Value, Not Noise One of the biggest misconceptions about reactive PR is that brands should comment on everything. In reality, selectivity is vital. Successful reactive PR is rooted in expertise. Brands, or their dedicated digital PR agency , must ask themselves whether they can genuinely add value to the conversation. If the connection feels forced, journalists will see through it. Strong reactive commentary typically includes one or more of the following: Expert insight that explains why something is happening Practical advice that helps readers navigate a situation Original data that supports or challenges a narrative A unique perspective that others have not considered When commentary is informative and concise, it increases the likelihood of being quoted. Building Long-Term Relationships Although reactive PR is fast-paced, its impact can be long-term. Consistently providing journalists with useful comments builds relationships and trust. Over time, reporters may approach a brand directly for input on future stories. This shift from pitching to being approached is powerful. It positions the brand as a go-to authority within its sector. Maintaining these relationships requires reliability. If a journalist requests information on a tight deadline, delivering on time is essential. Professionalism and responsiveness can turn a single reactive opportunity into ongoing media exposure. Integrating Reactive PR into a Wider Strategy Reactive PR should not exist in isolation. It works best when integrated into a broader digital PR and content strategy. Planned campaigns generate predictable coverage and align with key business objectives. Reactive PR complements this by capitalising on unexpected opportunities. When coupled together, they create a balanced approach that combines structure with flexibility. For example, a technology brand might run a long-term campaign around the rise of AI in workplaces, while also responding reactively to the latest scam techniques used by fraudsters. This ensures the brand remains visible throughout the year, not just during campaign launches. Data can also strengthen reactive efforts. Having access to proprietary research or internal statistics allows brands to support their commentary with evidence. Journalists value numbers, and exclusive data can transform a simple comment into a headline feature. Managing Risk With speed comes responsibility. Reactive PR involves engaging with live issues, some of which may be sensitive or controversial. Before responding, brands should assess potential risks. Does the topic align with brand values? Could the commentary be misinterpreted? Is the information accurate and verified? Clear approval processes and experienced PR guidance help mitigate these risks. The goal is to contribute constructively, not to chase attention at any cost. The Competitive Advantage In crowded markets, differentiation is critical. Reactive PR provides a way for brands to stand out by demonstrating awareness, expertise, and agility. While competitors may rely solely on scheduled campaigns, brands that embrace reactive opportunities can dominate conversations as they unfold. This visibility reinforces relevance and positions the business as an active participant in its industry rather than a passive observer.
UK Updates GB Toy Safety Standard List
Tue, Mar 10, 2026 07:34 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 035.26, summarizing the UK's Department for Business and Trade (DBT) Notice of Publication 0131/26. This updates the list of designated toy safety standards for presumption of conformity with the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/1881) in relation to England, Scotland and Wales (collectively Great Britain). Three important changes are included in the Notice: Adding a note for wave rollers in EN 71-1:2014+A1:2018 for 'Mechanical and physical properties.' This restriction note is also reflected in Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2025/1728 on harmonized standards for wave rollers in support of Directive 2009/48/EC on toy safety Replacing EN 71-3:2019+A1:2021 with EN 71-3:2019+A2:2024 for 'Migration of certain elements' Substituting EN 71-13:2021+A1:2022 with EN 71-13:2021+A2:2024 for 'Olfactory board games, cosmetic kits and gustative games' This updated list of toy safety standards takes effect from February 13, 2026. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 035.26 includes a helpful table listing the applicable standards. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 035.26 for more details. SGS toy and juvenile product services SGS offers a wide range of services to ensure that products comply with relevant standards for childcare articles and children's equipment. They provide consulting, training, product development, testing, audit and inspection services to ensure that products comply with strict regulations worldwide, demonstrating the safety and quality of juvenile products being brought to the market. After all, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's toy and juvenile product services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full UK Updates List of Toy Safety Standards for Great Britain SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Proposed Update to Thai Food Container Law
Tue, Mar 10, 2026 07:21 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 034.26, highlighting Thailand's consultation on proposed updates to the country's law on food containers. Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) Announcement No. 92 (B.E. 2528 (1985)) is the subject of a consultation initiated on February 11, 2026, by Thailand's Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The proposed amendments include: Establishing a new structure for the law with strengthened requirements for chemicals Adding requirements for non-plastic packaging materials Requiring compliance with Thai Industrial Standards, particularly those governing the use of chemicals Issuing separate announcements for each type of material to facilitate future revisions The consultation is open for comments until March 31, 2026. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 034.26 includes useful tables providing further information on key changes in the proposed amendments and relevant abbreviations. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 034.26 for more details. SGS food contact material services SGS's technical experts have extensive experience of testing materials and articles in contact with food. They can ensure that your products meet the appropriate regulations for food contact materials and pave the way for compliance. SGS offers the full range of testing, including migration tests, along with expert advice on emerging regulations, compliance issues and documentation review. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's food contact material services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Thailand Proposes Update to Law on Food Containers SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Kwanti Announces New Cash Flow and Watchlist Tools, Teases AI-Powered Features for 2026
Tue, Mar 10, 2026 07:15 EDT
Leading portfolio analytics platform introduces game-changing new features and shares 2026 roadmap Kwanti , a leading portfolio analytics solution aiding financial advisors and investment managers with prospect conversion, client retention, model management, proposal generation, and more, today announced multiple new features to its award-winning portfolio analytics platform that bring significant capabilities to how advisors model cash flow and monitor portfolios. KWANTI LAUNCHES NEW CASH FLOW SCENARIOS FEATURE Kwanti's new Cash Flow Scenarios feature enables advisors to run historical simulations showing how a portfolio would have responded to systematic cash flows over time. Instead of relying on projected returns, advisors can show clients exactly how different withdrawal and contribution strategies would have played out using actual market data, making for more confident conversations around retirement income, dollar cost averaging, and portfolio sustainability. "Advisors have always needed a better way to show clients how different strategies would actually perform in the real world," said Christophe Gauthron, CFA® , Founder and CEO of Kwanti. "With Cash Flow Scenarios, we're giving advisors the ability to have more evidence-based conversations grounded in real market history." Four distinct scenario types can be tested: Dividend Withdrawal, Fixed Dollar Withdrawal, Percentage-Based Withdrawal, and Fixed Dollar Contribution. Cash Flow Scenarios is now available to all Kwanti users. To learn more, please click here . KWANTI INTRODUCES WATCHLIST: STREAMLINED SECURITY MONITORING Kwanti also recently released Watchlist , a dedicated workspace that gives advisors a single place to monitor securities, track opportunities, and stay on top of market movement without jumping between tools. Advisors can organize securities into multiple lists, customize their view, and set automated price alerts to keep their focus on what matters most. "Advisors shouldn't have to juggle multiple tools just to stay on top of the market," said Gauthron. "Watchlist brings everything into one place so advisors can monitor securities, track opportunities, and act quickly without breaking their workflow." Key features include customizable display, flexible import options, automated price alerts, and multiple Watchlists. Watchlist is now available to all Kwanti users. To learn more, please click here . KWANTI'S 2026 ROADMAP AND UPCOMING AI-POWERED FEATURES While Kwanti has always brought practical, high-value tools to financial advisors, the company is now focused on a new frontier: bringing the power of AI to portfolio analytics. With deep, cross-custodian data built up over years of real advisor use, Kwanti serves as the source of truth that powers these capabilities, ensuring AI-generated insights are grounded in real portfolio data rather than what an advisor can remember to describe. Kwanti is actively developing AI-powered features that allow advisors to surface insights faster, ask questions in natural language, and get a clearer picture of their practice without leaving the tools they already use. This includes integrating Kwanti's data with leading AI platforms through the Model Context Protocol (MCP). The Kwanti team will be sharing more details and providing hands-on demonstrations at the 2026 T3 Technology Conference , including during a breakout session titled "From Data Fatigue to Client Confidence: Prospecting with AI" on Thursday, March 12 th at 9:30am CT. Additional details will be announced in the coming months. To stay up to date on all new features and enhancements to the Kwanti platform, tune in to the Kwanti blog and follow Kwanti on LinkedIn .
Centrepiece by Rome's Leading 17th/18th Century Goldsmith Expected to Sell for up to £300,000 at Sloane Street Auctions
Tue, Mar 10, 2026 06:00 EDT
An extraordinary table centerpiece attributed Rome's leading goldsmith of the late 17th and 18th centuries is expected to sell for up to £300,000 at Sloane Street Auctions on March 12. The 17½in (44.5cm) high by 32½in (82.5cm) wide silver, silver-gilt and malachite piece dates to around 1720, and is considered the work of Giovanni Giardini (1646-1722), the great Italian architect and designer best known for his elaborate metalwork designs, culminating in his appointment as the Vatican's chief metalworker in 1698.Oval in shape and standing on four openwork scroll feet, its elaborate design is typical of Giardini. The border is applied with shells, scrolls and foliage in the baroque style and it has six detachable winged putti. The base is formed from segments of polished malachite, and sits above a detachable openwork frame incorporating foliate scrolls, shells, scaly dolphins, goats' masks and applied parcel-gilt vacant cartouches. That is surmounted by the figure of Bacchus wearing a lion pelt, playing pipes and seated on a malachite rock, the underside of the frame applied with pendant fish and waterleaves. Consigned from a private collection, it last appeared at auction more than 30 years ago, when Christie's sold items from the collection at Houghton Hall in Norfolk, the Palladian home of Britain's first prime minister, Sir Robert Walpole Link to commission from CardinalThe mark on the border is recorded in C. Bulgari's Argentieri Gemmari E Orafi D'Italia, as also appearing on a silver and malachite cross and pair of altar candlesticks by Giovanni Giardini made for Cardinal Francesco Barberini. It is possible the piece was marked sometime after creation.Born at Forli on 24 June 1646 Giardini was apprenticed to Marco Gamberucci in 1665, who had recently been appointed 'Argentieri di Nostro Signore' and supplied silver to the Vatican and Cardinal Barberini. In 1676 Giardini took over his master's workshop and continued to supply important commissions for the nobility and the church including a silver 'death' mask to cover the face of Queen Christina while lying in state in April 1689.Although several of his ecclesiastical works survive, including a papal mace of about 1696, now in the Victoria and Albert Museum, and an altar set of silver and malachite, now in private collection, few secular pieces survive, principally because of the number of works destroyed during the Napoleonic Wars.His mark and even his signature appear on most of his known surviving pieces, but unmarked pieces are known, in particular a holy water stoup attributed to him now in the Art Institute of Minneapolis, made of silver, gilt-bronze and lapis-lazuli. It shows his command of the baroque style and the sculptural qualities of his work. Added to which it illustrates his love of combining precious metal with hardstone, as with the present lot.In 1702 Giardini bought a large vineyard at Tor di Quinto and the inventory made after his death reveals a man of considerable wealth. It is likely that he influenced the work of Thomas Germain, who began his career in Rome whilst Giardini was at the height of his career. "Giardini was without doubt one of the leading European goldsmiths working during the late baroque period and a great influence on the first generation of great rococo exponents such as Germain," said Sloane Street Auctions' owner, Daniel Hunt. "This extraordinary and impressive centerpiece is more than worthy of its attribution. Not only is it historic and dating to one of the greatest ages of artistic invention, but it is also a modern-day interior decorator's dream - the perfect conversation piece to create a unique setting." - The auction also includes a major work attributed to great master cabinetmakers of the Regency period, George Bullock (1777-1818), a malachite inlaid Buhl table that is thought to have been a commission for the Duke of Buccleuch. It is expected to fetch £60,000-80,000. "These sort of pieces would have been a natural fit for Christie's South Kensington in its day, but now that has gone, we find that consignors tend to come to us, so we are delighted to play our part in keeping this tradition of higher end works coming to London beyond the confines of Bond Street and St James," said Daniel Hunt. "It is also a happy coincidence that our auctioneer, Hugh Edmeades, was Christie's South Kensington's former chairman." Live online bidding is available via Sloane Street Auctions' website at www.sloanestreetauctions.com About Sloane Street Auctions Sloane Street Auctions was founded by Mr Daniel Hunt after spending over 30 years as a high-profile gallery owner and dealer, based at his galleries in Lower Sloane Street, London. Daniel Hunt's intimate knowledge of the upper tiers of the art and antique sectors throughout millennia, from BC to 2022, provides Sloane Street Auctions with unprecedented access to private collections worldwide and the best of access to specific expertise. Sloane Street Auctions' primary objective is to work with both our buyers and sellers to provide the art market access to the rarest objects and art - from Classical Antiquities, Icons and Old Masters, right through to the YBAs and beyond. Sloane Street Auctions takes great pleasure in dealing with people. We aim to provide a seamless and pleasant service, whether buying or selling. Our vision is to unearth the world's greatest treasures and to match them with the world's greatest collectors, whether an occasional buyer or a seasoned connoisseur. Sloane Street Auctions prides itself in providing the highest level of client service and discretion. With Daniel's contacts spanning over 40 countries worldwide, accumulated over a lifetime in the industry, Sloane Street Auctions empowers our community of connoisseurs and collectors to acquire and consign the greatest of fine art and objects at a highly competitive rate. With Daniel Hunt's expertise in curating some of the most renowned private collections worldwide, Sloane Street Auctions has the ability to source a wide variety of extraordinary pieces. Sloane Street Auctions' concentrates on, but is not limited to, Old Master Drawings and Paintings, European Furniture and Works of Art, Impressionist Art, Modern and Contemporary Art, Photography and Private Sales.
Midland Pallet Trucks Warns of Spring Stock Turnover Surge in DIY & Garden Retail
Tue, Mar 10, 2026 05:40 EDT
Spring may feel far away, but the first signs of its arrival are already here, with lighter evenings and improving weather. There is one more sign most people may not notice: distribution centres supplying the UK's DIY and garden sector are already shifting gears, with winter inventory moving out and bulky seasonal stock is moving in - triggering a marked rise in pallet volumes across regional hubs. According to Midland Pallet Trucks, a leading retailer of pallet trucks, stacker trucks and lift tables, the transition from cold-weather ranges to spring and outdoor lines creates one of the most physically demanding periods of the year for warehouse teams. Compost, paving slabs, fencing panels and outdoor furniture sets replace smaller boxed goods, increasing both load weight and awkward handling requirements. Spring turnover in DIY and garden retail is characterised by dense, heavy products stacked high and moved frequently. Pallets of compost and aggregates can significantly exceed the average weight of winter stock, while large flat-pack garden furniture demands careful manoeuvring through tight warehouse aisles. This seasonal pivot also brings a sharp increase in pallet movement volumes. As retailers build inventory ahead of the spring rush, warehouses must process incoming stock while clearing remaining winter lines. The result is more double handling, more trailer unloading, and sustained daily equipment use over longer shifts. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks, says the strain of this period is often underestimated. "Spring is sometimes seen as a straightforward build-up to summer sales, but from a warehouse perspective it's one of the toughest transitions of the year," he said. "You're dealing with heavier, more awkward products at exactly the point when volumes are climbing. Equipment that copes comfortably with boxed winter goods can feel very different when it's moving pallets of paving or bulk bags." He added that preparation should begin well before March. "Retailers who review their materials handling setup early tend to avoid bottlenecks and operator fatigue later. Smooth-rolling pallet trucks, reliable hydraulics and stable load control make a real difference when you're shifting heavier stock all day. It's not just about speed; it's about maintaining safe, consistent performance as the workload ramps up." For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .
SGS offers expert insights into traceability and DPP requirements for textile and footwear supply chains
Tue, Mar 10, 2026 05:33 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is pleased to announce a complimentary webinar, 'Traceability, Transparency and Digital Product Passport - Status & Solutions for the Textile and Footwear Supply Chain', taking place on March 19, 2026. As the EU advances its transition toward a circular economy, new regulations such as the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) are reshaping expectations for product data, life cycle visibility and verified sustainability information. For textile and footwear businesses, this shift demands stronger traceability systems, enhanced transparency and readiness for the Digital Product Passport (DPP), which will fundamentally change how products are documented and communicated across the supply chain. SGS's expert-led webinar will provide a clear overview of the evolving regulatory landscape, explain what traceability and transparency really mean in practice and outline the latest developments in DPP requirements. Presenters Frank Kempe and Nicole Zhu will share insights into key challenges, industry trends and practical approaches for meeting future compliance expectations. Attendees will also learn how enhanced data collection and digital documentation support informed decision‑making and strengthen stakeholder trust. With examples and solutions tailored to the needs of global apparel and footwear brands, the session will help businesses understand what to prepare for now and how to leverage SGS's technical expertise to navigate these changes confidently. This webinar is ideal for brands, retailers, manufacturers, sustainability specialists, compliance managers, product developers, quality professionals and supply chain teams working in the textile and footwear sectors. Interested parties should register now for more information. IMPACT NOW for sustainability SGS's sustainability impact services help softlines businesses meet rising environmental expectations and evolving regulatory demands. Through the IMPACT NOW for sustainability initiative, SGS provides innovative solutions built around four pillars - climate, circularity, nature and ESG assurance - which enable organizations to reduce risk, strengthen compliance and drive measurable, sustainable progress. Discover circularity-focused solutions within the IMPACT NOW for sustainability framework.
UK Energy Sector Must Diversify Leadership Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty and Net Zero Challenges
Tue, Mar 10, 2026 05:24 EDT
As the UK energy sector faces growing strain from geopolitical instability and the accelerating demands of net zero delivery, the industry must urgently diversify its leadership portfolio. That's according to the executive search firm, Newman Stewart. The specialist has warned that with Government energy plans relying on rapid progress across nuclear, renewables, grid expansion and distributed generation, the sector faces an increasingly complex operating environment. With the UK energy system also entering a period of significant volatility due to global supply risks, shifting regulatory frameworks, and sustained pressure to decarbonise, energy leaders are facing unprecedented demands. However, according to Newman Stewart, leadership pipelines in energy remain narrow, limiting access to the breadth of skills and perspectives now required. The skills shortages are well-documented, with recent research from the International Energy Agency (IEA) revealing that more than half of businesses are facing recruitment bottlenecks. These are also being felt at leadership level, which is putting future strategic growth at risk. Consequently, diversification of leadership, including greater representation of women in senior and plant leadership roles, is no longer a cultural aspiration but a strategic necessity. As energy assets become more technologically complex, politically sensitive and publicly scrutinised, leadership teams must be equipped to manage risk, uncertainty and long-term transformation in parallel. John Tilbrook, Managing Director of Newman Stewart, comments: "The challenges facing the UK energy sector today are becoming increasingly complex and volatile. Geopolitical uncertainty and net-zero commitments have created a demand for leaders who can navigate ambiguity, engage diverse stakeholders, and make complex decisions under pressure. Relying on the same leadership profiles will not deliver the resilience the system now requires." "Diversifying leadership involves strengthening the sector's ability to adapt. When leadership teams draw from a wider range of experience and perspectives, organisations are better equipped to manage risk, innovate, and maintain delivery during disruptions. In the context of the UK's energy plans, this is a business imperative rather than a side issue. Having recently celebrated International Women's Day amid growing gender disparity and increasing leadership skills gaps, I believe there must be a renewed focus on developing genuinely inclusive leadership pipelines that reflect the scale and complexity of the challenge ahead." ENDS About Newman Stewart Newman Stewart is a global executive search firm specialising in senior, confidential and technically complex roles. Boutique in size but uncompromising in capability, the firm combines rigorous research, transparent processes and deep sector understanding to help clients solve their most critical leadership challenges. www.newmanstewart.co.uk
New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies to Host Staten Island Public Hearing on Economic Development
Mon, Mar 09, 2026 17:03 EDT
Staten Islanders are invited to share lived experiences and solutions to help shape evidence-based remedies for economic inequity. ALBANY, N.Y. - The New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies (NYSCCRR) will host a public hearing on Staten Island focused on 'Economic Development:Quantifying Harms' on Saturday, March 21, 2026 . The hearing will convene community members, advocates, and subject-matter experts to examine longstanding disparities in economic opportunity and their impact on historically underserved communities. The hearing is part of the Commission's ongoing statewide effort to gather testimony and data that will inform evidence based policy recommendations aimed at advancing equitable economic development across New York State. Testimony will focus on critical areas including employment, contracting, infrastructure investment, and small business support. Residents, advocates, researchers, and policy experts are encouraged to share lived experiences, data, and concrete recommendations. Among the featured speakers is renowned economist and professor, Dr. William Darity Jr., PhD. He co-authored "From Here to Equality: Reparations for Black Americans in the Twenty-First Century." "Economic harm is not abstract. It shows up in paychecks, contracts, small businesses that never get funded, and neighborhoods that don't receive the equitable investment. This Staten Island hearing is an opportunity to document those realities and ensure community testimony helps shape evidence-based remedies for New York State," said NYSCCRR Chair, Dr. Seanelle Hawkins. EVENT DETAILS Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026 Time: 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Location: Staten Island Urban Center 206 Bay Street, Ground Floor Staten Island, NY 10301 Parking: On-site and nearby street parking available [ Click to get directions ] Watch Online: Streaming link will be available at www.ny.gov/reparations Stay up to date and view past hearings: Visit the NYSCCRR website About the Commission: The NYSCCRR was established. by Senate Bill S1163A, introduced by Senator James Sanders, Jr. and Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, and signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul in 2023. The Commission's mandate is to study the economic, social, and political impacts of slavery and systemic racism in New York State and produce an evidence-based report of reparations recommendations to the Governor and State Legislature.
EncorEstate Plans Launches Standalone Special Needs Trust Offering for Financial Advisors
Mon, Mar 09, 2026 10:59 EDT
Streamlining the creation of customized strategies for families with special needs planning EncorEstate Plans (Encore), the most comprehensive and customizable estate planning and trust funding solution for advisors, today announced the launch of its standalone special needs trust (SNT) offering. The new SNT offering - available as a standalone purchase later this year - enables financial advisors to facilitate the creation of fully customizable special needs trusts for their clients as part of Encore's pay-as-you-go offerings. With approximately 57 million Americans (nearly one in five) living with a disability, the need for proper special needs planning is significant and growing. Yet, research indicates that roughly 80% of families with special needs dependents have not established a SNT to preserve eligibility for critical government benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. Until now, advisors seeking to address this gap have been forced to refer clients out to specialized attorneys at significant cost, or rely on rigid, generic templates that fail to account for each family's unique circumstances - an approach that is neither comprehensive nor aligned with the goals of holistic financial planning. "Advisors tell us all the time that special needs planning is one of the most important and most underserved areas in their practice," said Matt Morris, CEO and Co-Founder of EncorEstate Plans . "By offering a standalone special needs trust, we're removing the barriers that have prevented advisors from serving these families directly. We believe it will fundamentally change how advisors approach truly comprehensive financial planning for clients with special needs dependents." TRULY COMPREHENSIVE AND CUSTOMIZABLE SPECIAL NEEDS PLANNING Encore's special needs trust offering is designed to address the full spectrum of special needs planning scenarios advisors encounter. The SNT supports both third-party special needs trusts (funded by parents, grandparents, or other family members) and first-party special needs trusts, which are funded with the disabled individual's own assets, such as an inheritance or legal settlement. This flexibility allows advisors to serve clients across a wide range of situations, from parents planning for a child with Down syndrome or autism to adults managing assets for a family member who became disabled later in life. Critically, Encore's SNT is not a one-size-fits-all template. Each state has variations based on its particular set of laws. Encore enables advisors and their clients to tailor various aspects of the SNT to the beneficiary's specific needs and the ultimate desires to provide for other family members upon the death of the initial beneficiary. All of this is being done while preserving eligibility for needs-based programs like SSI and Medicaid. "Special needs trusts are among the most basic irrevocable and non-controversial estate planning documents. They have one overriding purpose - allowing the beneficiary to live a better version of their life with resources that will supplement any state or federal needs-based public benefit," said Mike Bennett, COO, Co-Founder, and Head of Estate Planning at EncorEstate Plans . "Our platform combines the deep legal expertise of our estate planning team with technology that makes this accessible to every advisor. The result is a special needs trust that is tailored to each client's family and helps limit risk exposure to families." STANDALONE ACCESS REMOVES BARRIERS FOR ADVISORS As part of Encore's comprehensive back-office estate planning platform, the new SNT offering will be available as a standalone purchase. This means advisors can facilitate the creation of an SNT for their clients on a case-by-case basis without committing to a platform subscription - significantly lowering the barrier to entry and making it practical for any advisor to serve clients with special needs planning requirements. The standalone SNT offering is available now in a Beta version and will be available within the software later this year. Advisors interested in learning more or joining the waitlist can visit www.EncorEstatePlans.com . ABOUT ENCORESTATE PLANS EncorEstate Plans is the #1 estate planning software for RIAs by market share according to the 2025 Kitces AdvisorTech Survey. Founded in 2021 and headquartered in Seattle, EncorEstate Plans is the most comprehensive and customizable estate planning and trust funding platform for advisors. The company's technology and industry-leading support team empower advisors to efficiently facilitate the creation, updating, and funding of estate plans, all under the advisor's brand. All of this is reflected in EncorEstate Plans having the lowest customer churn (
Hai Robotics Upgrades HaiPick Climb for Faster Fulfillment and Higher Storage Density
Mon, Mar 09, 2026 10:00 EDT
Hai Robotics today announced an upgraded version of its HaiPick Climb automated storage and picking system, enhancing throughput performance, storage density, and workflow flexibility while maintaining the simplicity and reliability of its proven system architecture. Built on the existing HaiPick Climb platform, the upgrade reflects real-world feedback from customers and partners and addresses evolving operational demands across warehouse environments. Higher Throughput Performance The upgraded system leverages agile robots and intelligent orchestration to deliver totes to picking stations in under two minutes, enabling up to 4,000 deliveries per hour. By bringing both inventory and order totes directly to the operator, HaiPick Climb supports fast, side-to-side picking without walking or additional handling, improving accuracy and sustaining consistent fulfillment performance during peak demand. Increased Storage Density Within the Same Footprint A compact system design combined with double-deep configurations maximizes storage capacity without expanding the warehouse footprint. The upgraded HaiPick Climb supports up to 45,000 totes within 1,000 square meters, allowing operations to increase inventory capacity while avoiding costly facility expansion. Expanded Workflow and Packaging Flexibility HaiPick Climb can handle cartons and eaches in their original packaging without requiring manual decanting. Automated tray and detray processes eliminate the need for unpacking while maintaining efficient goods-to-person workflows. The system can be configured to support both inbound and outbound processes, mixed packaging formats, and multiple picking workflows within the same system framework, without fragmenting automation or adding operational complexity. Innovation Driven by Customer Operations ''At Hai Robotics, innovation doesn't start with technology. It starts with our customers. Every evolution of HaiPick Systems is driven by one question: How do we help our customers store more, deliver more performance, and scale seamlessly? This latest upgrade to HaiPick Climb is our answer to that question. We've expanded what the system can do, helping you store more within the same footprint, while keeping the core architecture simple, proven, and consistently efficient. We did this by making HaiPick Climb more modular . That means more choices in container sizes, storage depth, and how orders are handled , all designed to work together seamlessly within one simple system. Building on its proven reliability, HaiPick Climb now offers higher storage density, stronger performance, and greater configuration flexibility , without compromising system simplicity." - Victor Redondo, Director Product Strategy and Planning at Hai Robotics Live Demonstrations at Major Industry Events The upgraded HaiPick Climb will be showcased through live demonstrations at major industry exhibitions worldwide, including LogiMAT, MODEX, CeMAT, Kansai Logix, and Logis-Tech Tokyo. For more information about the upgraded HaiPick Climb, visit https://www.hairobotics.com/solutions/haipick-climb.
Coats to Showcase Innovative Reinforcement and Filler Materials for Leather Goods and Accessories at APLF 2026
Mon, Mar 09, 2026 08:19 EDT
Visit Coats at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre on 12-14 March 2026 in Hall 1E Coats, a world-class Tier 2 manufacturer and trusted partner for the apparel and footwear industries, will be promoting four advanced materials from its 'Lifestyle Solutions' portfolio at APLF 2026 in Hong Kong in March. Each innovation has been specifically engineered to help luxury and premium brands elevate the craft, durability, sustainability and creative expression required in the manufacturing of handbags, purses, and other high-end designer accessories. As a valued innovation partner to the world's leading fashion houses, Coats will showcase novel reinforcement and filler materials with the power to help brands translate cutting-edge creative concepts into high-performance market-ready accessories, including: Coats Aquiline - A high-quality, durable filler material for the main body of leather bags. This material is available in different colours and is impregnated with a thermo adhesive making it suitable for the production of complex designs or load bearing parts. Coats Aquiline features Tex2Tex fibres, which transform textile waste into a premium filler, to deliver a high-quality finish while reducing landfill impact and closing the loop in fashion. Coats Pyroflex - A premium hot-melt reinforcement material engineered for modern handbag manufacturing. Pyroflex offers exceptional tear resistance and dimensional stability with minimal stretch and low weight and is ideal for demanding applications. Coats RX V 5000 - An eco-friendly thermo-adhesive reinforcement solution made from high-level GRS-certified recycled wood and polymers. With a stable structure, Coats RX V 5000 can deliver lasting shape while helping to reduce the carbon footprint of luxury handbags. Coats Ultrasoft - A high-density non-woven material designed for luxury handbag components where exceptional softness and lasting resilience are critical. Engineered to rival microfiber suppleness, while offering superior elasticity and durability, Ultrasoft ensures flexible parts maintain shape without permanent creasing or structural marks. All featured products have been designed to help the global fashion and manufacturing community create goods that balance performance, artisan craftsmanship, heritage, and design-led innovation. Explaining more, Nicoletta Baratta, Global Sales Director of Lifestyle at Coats, said: "In today's dynamic fashion landscape, brands need materials that deliver exceptional performance and quality, while also supporting their environmental goals. Our commitment to sustainable innovation, evidenced by products like Aquiline, enables them to meet consumer expectations - without compromising design or functionality. Our presence at APLF reflects our long-standing partnership with key players in the fashion industry and our focus on creating cutting-edge materials that enable brands to bridge the gap between heritage, artisan, accessory production techniques and future-ready designs. We're excited to show our latest innovations at APLF." APLF is recognised as one of the world's leading leather and materials exhibitions, bringing together international leather, materials and fashion businesses to source materials, discover innovations, build partnerships, and connect with decision-makers across the leather, fashion, and manufacturing supply chain. Coats' Lifestyle Solutions portfolio includes a comprehensive range of high-quality threads, reinforcement materials and fillers designed specifically for the production of handbags and accessories. With a strong focus on both functional performance and visual appeal, the company is a trusted partner for brands creating luxury and premium products that are both beautiful and built to last. Visit Coats at Booth B29 in Hall 1E to explore its latest material innovations, engage with technical experts, and discover how the company's reinforcement and filler solutions can support the next generation of luxury lifestyle products. For more information about Coats Lifestyle Solutions, visit: https://www.coats.com/en/info-hub/lifestyle-solutions/ -ends- ABOUT COATS GROUP PLC Coats is a world-leading Tier 2 manufacturer and trusted partner for the apparel and footwear industries. The business delivers essential materials, components, and software solutions that help customers grow, compete and win. With over 250 years of industry expertise, Coats is shaping the future of the apparel and footwear supply chain through impactful sustainability practices, insight-led innovation and digital technologies that unlock better product quality, efficiency and performance. Headquartered in the UK, Coats is a FTSE 250 company and a constituent of the FTSE4Good Index. In 2025, Coats generated $1.5 billion in revenue and employed 19,000 people worldwide - all united by a spirit of innovation, quality and service. Learn more at www.coats.com or follow the business on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/coats
Hydrogen Core Network Operators Publish Details For Capacity Reservations From 19 March 2026
Mon, Mar 09, 2026 07:45 EDT
To further support the ramp-up of the hydrogen market and offer market participants investment and planning security, the operators of the hydrogen core network will launch a coordinated process for reserving initial hydrogen core network capacities on 19 March 2026. The process will be based on a market information package published today. It provides the related information on the development of the hydrogen core network in the form of clusters and the capacities available therein and is available on the websites of the hydrogen core network operators. The process will allow companies to secure the entry and exit capacities required for their supply relationships at an early stage -- an important contribution to securing hydrogen projects in Germany. 'With the coordinated marketing process, we are taking another important step towards a successful market ramp-up in Germany and Europe. The possibility to reserve capacities simplifies access to the hydrogen core network and gives companies security for their project developments,' emphasises Barbara Fischer, Managing Director of FNB Gas. From the start date, capacities can be reserved on the basis of a model contract agreed within the industry using a standardised application form. The form will be published on 19 March 2026 on the website of the hydrogen core network operator responsible for the respective entry or exit points. In the first step, reservations will be based on the network and capacity structures for the years 2026 to 2030 listed in the market information package. The capacity and cluster developments for the following years will be published subsequently by the hydrogen core network operators, taking into account the gas and hydrogen network development plan. With the start of the capacity reservation process, the hydrogen core network operators are providing an important impetus for cross-border hydrogen transport and the market ramp-up in Germany. It creates a reliable framework for the development of supply chains and long-term investment planning in the European hydrogen market.
Direct Final Rule Issued for Crib Mattresses from US CPSC
Mon, Mar 09, 2026 05:22 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 033.26, reporting on the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) direct final rule, 16 CFR 1241. This incorporates the latest version of the ASTM F2933 standard for crib mattresses, with retained modifications. ASTM F2933-25 introduces multiple updates, including new definitions, expanded performance requirements and test methods, to existing provisions and editorial revisions. These improvements provide clearer scope language and strengthen performance and testing criteria to enhance repeatability and reproducibility of test results. The direct final rule includes several existing CPSC modifications not addressed in ASTM F2933-25. These requirements are maintained to avoid any reduction in safety. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 033.26 provides further information on the retained modifications and a link to a read-only copy of ASTM F2933-25. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 033.26 for more details. SGS toy and juvenile product services SGS offers a wide range of services to ensure that products comply with relevant standards for childcare articles and children's equipment. They provide consulting, training, product development, testing, audit and inspection services to ensure that products comply with strict regulations worldwide, demonstrating the safety and quality of juvenile products being brought to the market. After all, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's toy and juvenile product services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full US CPSC Issues Direct Final Rule for Crib Mattresses SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact: Ramiro Mantilla Laboratory Supervisor, Toys and Juvenile Products, Hardlines Tel: +1 (973) 575-5252 Piyush Shah Technical Director, Hardlines Tel: +1 (973) 461-7953 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Universities Are Writing AI Policies for Teaching and Not Research, New Tool Suggests
Mon, Mar 09, 2026 05:21 EDT
As universities race to update their artificial intelligence policies, most are focusing on teaching and student conduct and neglecting something just as important: research. According to industry data, 86 per cent of educational institutions now use generative AI, yet the majority of formal policies centre on academic integrity concerns such as cheating and plagiarism. The result is a growing policy gap around how AI should be used ethically and effectively in research. ResearchCollab.ai, a purpose-built research platform engineered to streamline the entire research workflow, warns that this imbalance is creating confusion across the academic community. While AI use for coursework content generation is tightly scrutinised, guidance on AI for literature discovery, synthesis and structured analysis remains limited or ambiguous. Researchers report uncertainty over where the line is drawn between acceptable "research assistance" and prohibited "content generation". This ambiguity has contributed to what some describe as a "transparency paradox", where scholars quietly use AI tools to improve productivity but hesitate to disclose it for fear their work will be viewed as illegitimate or subjected to bias. In some fields, despite evidence suggesting AI can deliver productivity gains of up to 40 per cent, as few as 1.7 per cent of researchers publicly acknowledge its use. The intense focus on enforcement has also created anxiety among faculty, many of whom feel positioned as policy enforcers without clear institutional guidance. Concerns over unreliable AI detection tools, unclear disclosure standards and fears of "skills atrophy" have compounded the uncertainty. "AI for research is fundamentally different from AI for writing coursework," said Imran Chughtai, Founder and CEO of ResearchCollab.ai. "Discovery, synthesis and structured analysis are not acts of outsourcing thinking: they are ways of organising it. "If policies focus only on content generation, they risk pushing legitimate research use underground rather than guiding it responsibly. The future of academic policy must move beyond enforcement toward structured, research-specific governance." The stakes are high: institutions that fail to establish clear research-specific AI frameworks risk reputational damage and may struggle to remain competitive for leading research funding. Blanket bans, meanwhile, risk leaving students and early-career researchers unprepared for a professional environment where ethical AI literacy is increasingly expected. Some universities are beginning to adopt more nuanced approaches. Institutions such as the University of Oxford and the European University Institute have introduced guidance emphasising human oversight, transparent disclosure and rigorous source verification, rather than outright prohibition. ResearchCollab.ai has been developed with these emerging governance standards in mind. The platform requires users to define research structure before generating outputs, integrates cross-model validation to reduce inaccuracies and provides visual topic mapping to create a clear intellectual lineage of ideas. For more information, visit researchcollab.ai .
US PFAS Legislative Update for Consumer Goods
Mon, Mar 09, 2026 05:12 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 032.26, summarizing the latest updates in US legislation for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in consumer goods since the beginning of 2026. The toxic effects and negative environmental impact of PFAS, often known as 'forever chemicals', have led to increasingly strict legislative controls globally. Several US states, including, but not limited to, the states of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington, have implemented measures to regulate PFAS in a wide range of consumer goods. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 032.26 includes a useful table with information about recent regulatory responses to PFAS from various US states, including jurisdictions, scope, requirements and proposed effective dates. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 032.26 for more details. IMPACT NOW for sustainability SGS sustainability impact services support the consumer products industry in meeting environmental goals and regulatory demands. Through the IMPACT Now for sustainability initiative, targeted solutions, such as PFAS testing for consumer products, are offered under four key pillars: Climate, Circularity, Nature and ESG Assurance. These services help businesses reduce risk, enhance compliance and drive sustainable innovation. 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 US Legislative Developments: PFAS in Consumer Goods SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Nectar Studios Appoints John Haggerty as Executive Producer and Managing Director
Fri, Mar 06, 2026 10:53 EST
Seasoned production leader joins to accelerate studio growth and elevate brand storytelling Nectar Studios, a fully-integrated production studio, has appointed John Haggerty as Executive Producer and Managing Director, bringing one of the industry's most accomplished and respected production leaders to elevate the studio's next chapter of growth. Haggerty steps into the role at a pivotal moment as Nectar continues to expand its production footprint and reputation for delivering visually captivating content and authentic brand stories through comprehensive end-to-end production services. He will lead production across all platforms, strengthen director and talent partnerships and build scalable systems that empower bold, culturally resonant storytelling. His appointment signals Nectar's continued investment to deepen craft while accelerating momentum. Nectar Studios is already known for creating award-winning campaigns for established brands - including Rooms To Go, Daytona International Speedway, Rolex 24, E3 Spark Plugs, Perkins and Metro Diner - while consistently producing impactful work that drives creative, measurable results. "John is the right kind of leader for Nectar today," said Jeff McCurry, COO of Nectar Studios. "He's about protecting both the creative and business intent of the work. With experience spanning a range of categories, budgets and formats - from traditional production to digital, social, long-form storytelling and AI-driven content, he's the right partner to help brands effectively execute their vision." "I've always believed that great production happens when ambition meets execution," said Haggerty. "Nectar has built something special as a studio with strong creative instincts and a commitment to doing the work the right way. I'm excited to join a team that's hungry to push further, move faster and continue raising the standard. My goal is to unlock bigger possibilities for our teams while building smart, scalable production models that allow bold ideas to thrive." Haggerty joins Nectar following senior leadership roles at Garage Films, Wheel & Spoke, and Campbell Ewald, where he built a reputation for elevating creative ambition and disciplined, high-performance execution. As Garage Films Executive Producer, he oversaw the entire U.S market. John collaborated with an international team based in Barcelona and Madrid. Expanding the company's brand and efficiency through establishing direct hires and overseeing all U.S marketing efforts. At Campbell Ewald, he served as Director of Integrated Production in Los Angeles. He also oversaw major client work for Chevrolet, Kaiser Permanente, Dole, Travelocity and Farmers Insurance to name a few. During the pandemic, he produced a Kaiser Permanente PSA that became the most-viewed TikTok campaign in history, generating more than 8 billion views, underscoring his ability to fuse cultural relevance with operational precision at scale. With a leader known for driving breakthrough work and business growth, Nectar is poised to accelerate its trajectory and deliver work that performs as powerfully as it resonates. For more information, visit www.nectar.studio .
International Luxury Living Exhibition to showcase global premium property opportunities at The Belfry
Fri, Mar 06, 2026 08:52 EST
Fine & Country is set to host the International Luxury Living Exhibition at the prestigious Belfry Hotel & Resort on Saturday 28 March 2026, following the brand's highly anticipated Annual Conference. The B2C exhibition will bring together an exceptional collection of premium properties from across Fine & Country's global network, offering prospective buyers a unique opportunity to explore international real estate opportunities all under one roof. Taking place at a time when Fine & Country agents from all international destinations are gathered for the Annual Conference, the exhibition is perfectly timed for buyers considering an overseas purchase. Visitors will have the chance to speak directly with Fine & Country agents from some of the world's most sought-after premium markets, each offering expert insight into the nuances of buying property in their region. In addition to exploring luxury homes in destinations ranging from vibrant global cities to tranquil coastal locations, attendees will also be able to meet with specialists in tax, foreign exchange, finance and relocation. These experts will be on hand to provide practical guidance and essential information, helping buyers navigate the complexities of international property ownership with confidence. The International Luxury Living Exhibition is designed for those who may be weighing up multiple destinations before committing to a particular market, allowing them to compare opportunities, lifestyles and investment considerations in one exclusive setting. Nicky Stevenson, Managing Director of Fine & Country, commented: "Bringing together international property professionals, market experts and premium homes in one place is incredibly powerful for buyers. It allows them to ask the right questions, gain trusted local insight and truly understand their options before making what is often a life-changing decision. Our global network spans some of the most desirable locations in the world, and this exhibition showcases both the breadth of that network and the expertise behind it." She added: "Whether a buyer is drawn to the energy of a major city or the appeal of a slower-paced coastal lifestyle, having access to knowledgeable agents and specialist advisers in a single environment helps turn international property aspirations into achievable, informed decisions." The International Luxury Living Exhibition promises to be a must-attend event for anyone considering purchasing a home abroad, offering inspiration, expertise and unparalleled access to global luxury property opportunities. To register to attend the event visit the Fine & Country website .
SGS invites cosmetics professionals to connect at in-cosmetics Global 2026
Fri, Mar 06, 2026 06:32 EST
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is delighted to announce its participation in in-cosmetics Global 2026, a leading international event for the cosmetics industry taking place in Paris from April 14-16. Hosted at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, the event brings together global beauty professionals to shape the future of innovation in the cosmetics and personal care industry, in a trade show with over 1,000 exhibitors and 12,000 visitors. SGS will be at Booth 1D20 in Hall 7 with experts available to provide advice and insight into the latest regulatory requirements and innovative testing services, helping businesses develop products that meet international standards and consumer expectations. In addition, Natascha Hennighausen, Scientific Manager at SGS, will present 'Skin research insights at a glance - advanced visualization techniques for cosmetic product performance' on April 16, 12:30 to 1:00 pm, as part of the technical program. This session will explore recent developments in in vitro testing for finished products and raw materials, as well as dermatological evaluation protocols designed to support marketing claims. SGS provides a comprehensive range of testing and certification services to ensure the quality and safety of formulations, with regulatory compliance expertise and clinical safety/efficacy and environmental impact studies to support businesses entering global markets. in-cosmetics Global takes place from April 14-16, 2026, at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles and is aimed at professionals in the cosmetics and personal care industries. Stakeholders are advised to register now to secure their place and meet SGS at in cosmetics Global 2026. For more information: Jennifer Buckley Senior Global Marketing Manager SGS, Health & Nutrition Tel: +1 9738669043 Media inquiries
CO2 probes demonstrate Carbon Capture efficiency
Thu, Mar 05, 2026 12:25 EST
Cool Planet Technologies, the specialist provider of membrane-based carbon capture solutions, recently organised a live demonstration of its modular carbon capture technology at a pilot plant in Grimsby, UK. Attendees were able to view real-time CO2 levels before and after capture, with continuous data provided by Vaisala MGP241 inline measurement probes. Background The Climate Crisis is forcing countries and businesses around the world to significantly reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Ultimately, this will rely on decarbonisation and a move away from fossil fuels. However, there are a number of industries for which GHG reductions will be hard to achieve. These include process emissions in the cement, lime, steel, and chemical sectors, as well as combustion emissions in processes such as waste-to-energy. Given the urgency of the climate crisis, the proximity of Net Zero targets, and the dilemma faced by the 'hard-to-abate' industries, there is an enormous global demand for effective carbon capture technologies that can be economically operated at scale. Cool Planet Technologies (CPT) was founded in 2019 by a group of mainly ex-oil/gas industry executives, with the sole objective of meeting the global demand for effective carbon capture technology. Membrane-based CO2 capture CPT is the commercial partner for a membrane-based carbon capture technology developed at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon in Germany. This provides CPT with exclusive worldwide rights to commercialise Hereon's latest generation PolyActive™ membrane and carbon capture technology. CPT and Hereon have filed a patent application for the design of their jointly developed carbon capture module, and will continue to collaborate on the further development of the technology. Hereon's Torsten Brinkmann says: "Membrane technology offers a number of advantages over alternative carbon capture methods. Importantly, no chemicals or consumables are necessary, and membranes have a long lifetime of around 5 years." Comparing Hereon's membranes with hollow fibre membranes, Torsten adds: "Flat sheet membranes offer greater flexibility in the selection of application-specific materials, and they provide superior fluid dynamics in the gas flow path, allowing optimum exploitation of the intrinsic membrane properties." Summarising the advantages of their flat sheet membrane technology, CPT's Chief Technology Officer, Simon Gorringe says: "These membranes are highly efficient, easy to work with, compact and environmentally friendly." A key element in the success of carbon capture will be finding economically effective opportunities for CO2 utilisation, storage or sequestration. So, once carbon dioxide has been captured by CPT's technology, a post-processing unit can be utilised to purify or liquify the CO2 to food or sequestration grade. Proving carbon capture effectivity with CO2 probes In the early days of its development, the operating performance of the carbon capture modules was predicted by specifically developed simulation tools, which employ single-gas permeation data as the only experimental input. These models were then evaluated by comparisons with tests undertaken at the Grimsby pilot plant, and found to be extremely accurate - performing to within 1% of predicted CO2 capture. CPT's pilot carbon capture facility in Grimsby was designed to allow control of the pressure ratio across the membranes in the modules, and control of the CO2 content of the feed gas. The plant is equipped with two CPT modules, although the plant is able to accommodate four modules. The two modules in the demonstration plant operate in series, offering CO2 capture capacity up to 37,000 tonnes/annum (tpa). Two live demonstrations of carbon capture performance by the CPT plant in Grimsby were conducted in June and October 2025, providing invited guests from industries such as lime, cement and steel with proof of concept and performance verification for CPT's carbon capture data. Five of Vaisala's MGP241 probes continuously monitor CO2 concentrations in the feed gas, during the process and in both the permeate and the retentate. Data are logged once per second and carbon capture efficiency is calculated and displayed in real-time. "The accuracy and reliability of the CO2 probes is critically important," Simon Gorringe explains. "Our initial research indicated that the Vaisala probes would meet our stringent requirements, but the pilot plant has allowed us to perform mass calculations to check their accuracy. Happily, this work was able to verify the high performance levels that the Vaisala probes deliver." The MGP241 probe was developed specifically to fill a gap in the market for carbon capture measurement probes. Uniquely, the MGP241 uses patented CARBOCAP® auto-calibrating infrared technology for the simultaneous inline measurement of both carbon dioxide and humidity. Importantly, the probes are able to accurately measure any CO2 concentration from 0 - 100%. Humidity measurement is also important because condensation would allow the formation of acids that would damage the equipment. Next steps CPT has recently announced that it has commenced the assembly of its 10,000 tonnes‑per‑annum carbon capture plant on site at Höver. CPT's construction team is currently installing and connecting the prefabricated modules, which is expected to take around two months. Capture operations are scheduled to begin in Q2 2026 following which the plant will demonstrate the performance, economics, and operability of CPT's technology at scale over a 12-month period, and will also utilise Vaisala probes to verify projected performance. For example, CPT will target 95% CO2 recovery. CPT and Holcim will then collaborate on the full decarbonisation of the Höver plant with plans to build a larger plant to capture around 90% of Höver's CO2 emissions (around 800,000 tpa), at the start of the next decade. Looking forward, CPT CEO Andrew Corner says: "With over 150 locations worldwide, Holcim represents enormous decarbonisation potential for CPT's technology." However, given the size and urgency of worldwide demand for decarbonisation, Andrew is keen to emphasise the global potential: "From the outset, we have been resolutely determined to ensure, not just that our carbon capture solution is modular and scalable, but also, that it is both environmentally and financially sustainable." Clearly, CPT is targeting all of the hard-to-abate industries, and Andrew believes that the key to unlocking this potential is the provision of trust and confidence in carbon capture efficiency. "I am very happy to acknowledge the role that Vaisala's probes play in delivering that trust," he explains. "Our customers need to know what levels of performance they can expect from our systems, so the inline measurement of accurate, reliable CO2 concentrations is critically important."
