Invest Atlanta Board Approves Financing for 65 Affordable Housing Units for Seniors Advancing Downtown Revitalization
Thu, Feb 19, 2026 15:39 EST
Mayor Andre Dickens today announced that the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors at its February 2026 meeting approved a $2M Eastside TAD Grant for new construction of 65 senior units in the heart of Downtown Atlanta. The Board's actions are part of an ongoing commitment to address the acute need for affordable housing in the city of Atlanta and create more inclusive communities that cater to all residents. Five Peachtree Senior, a transformative, 65-unit affordable housing community, is the first phase of development in 2 Peachtree footprint, which will create a mixed-use community that elevates economic activity and residential life in the Five Points area. This project represents a major milestone in the continued revitalization of the Downtown core and builds upon the momentum of nearby redevelopment efforts. Strategically located on Peachtree Street, the 62 years and older community will provide high-quality, income-restricted housing designed specifically to serve seniors earning at 80% or below Area Median Income (AMI). The development addresses the growing need for affordable senior housing while supporting a broader vision to reestablish Downtown Atlanta as a vibrant, mixed-income, mixed-use neighborhood. "5 Peachtree is more than a housing development-it is a critical piece of Downtown's resurgence," said Mayor Andre Dickens who serves as Invest Atlanta Board Chair. "In alignment with our larger strategy for Downtown's revival, this project reinforces our commitment to bringing residents back to the city's core and ensuring seniors can age in place in a community that offers connectivity, dignity and opportunity." The project complements ongoing revitalization efforts, strengthening Peachtree Street as a residential corridor, and supporting the City's efforts to convert underutilized and office-dominant properties into housing. Together, these developments represent a coordinated approach to increase Downtown's residential density, activate street-level activity, and support local businesses. "Many seniors enjoy city living for the convenience and a walkable lifestyle that keeps them active and socially connected," said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, CEO of Invest Atlanta. "At its heart, this development is creating a place our seniors can truly call home by bringing affordable housing to Downtown. Every new affordable home represents stability and opportunity, and this project is part of the more than 5,000 affordable housing units underway. This effort is not just strengthening Downtown's economy; it's ensuring that its growth includes all of the people who make Atlanta great." Residents of 5 Peachtree will benefit from proximity to MARTA transit, healthcare providers, retail, an adjacent Azalea Fresh Market grocery, and cultural institutions, offering seniors convenient access to essential services and amenities. The development will also incorporate community-oriented spaces designed to promote wellness, accessibility, and social engagement. As Atlanta continues to address housing affordability challenges and reimagine the future of its Downtown, 5 Peachtree stands as a model of inclusive redevelopment-prioritizing seniors while strengthening the economic and social fabric of the city's core. Construction is expected to begin late in the second quarter of 2026 with completion anticipated sometime in November 2027. For more information about 5 Peachtree and Invest Atlanta's affordable housing initiatives, click here .
AARO Releases Report on Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP)
Thu, Feb 19, 2026 09:42 EST
The U.S. Department of Defense recently released 2025 UAP Workshop: Narrative Data, Infrastructures, and Analysis . The report details key findings from the workshop conducted at AUI headquarters in August of 2025. The meeting gathered 40 participants from government, academia and independent research organizations, and focused on the challenges and opportunities of working with UAP narrative reports and related data sources. The workshop and report is a collaboration between the U.S. Department of Defense's All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO), Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI), and Florida State University (FSU). "Like any scientific endeavor, answering questions around UAP requires rigorous data collection, standardization, and analysis," said Tim Spuck, AUI director of education and public engagement. "Currently the research which reviews military logs, reports and archival records, social media posts, civilian testimony, is often complicated by classification, translation, and retention barriers." Key findings of the report relate to overcoming such barriers, effective use of UAP data, and analysis methods, including the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI). Actionable recommendations include the development of standardized metadata templates and the use of AI with human oversight, in addition to other improvements in data collection, collaboration, contextualization and preservation. "We are grateful to AARO for their support and to our participants for making time to attend and share their knowledge and insights" said Dr. Gretchen Stahlman, FSU assistant professor and co-lead on the workshop. Stahlmen went on to say, "Beyond UAP reports, analyzing experiential narrative reports at scale is an interdisciplinary challenge, recently impacted by rapid developments in AI. This meeting of minds brought together perspectives from physical, social, medical and computational sciences to help bring UAP research to the cutting edge." This research builds upon a previous NSF-funded workshop held in 2024, "Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP): A Dialogue on Science, Public Engagement and Communication". The 2024 effort explored how we might best help the public apply a scientific lens to UAP through communication and education. The need for advanced tools and techniques to support data collection and analysis was a critical recommendation that emerged. Associated Universities Inc. is an independent, non-profit corporation founded in 1946 that specializes in design, building and managing cutting-edge research facilities and the development and implementation of innovative approaches to education, outreach and workforce development. Currently, AUI manages two U.S.-funded research and development centers: The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) and the Green Bank Observatory (GBO). NRAO is the North American partner in the management of the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile. In addition, NRAO includes the Very Large Array (VLA), and the Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA), and GBO is home to the 100-meter Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope. Contact: Tim Spuck Director of Education and Public Engagement, AUI tspuck@aui.edu
ScribeEMR to Exhibit ScribeRyte AI Clinical Documentation Solutions at HIMSS (Booth #645)
Thu, Feb 19, 2026 09:32 EST
ScribeEMR , a leading provider of AI-powered healthcare documentation solutions, automated RCM, and virtual medical office services, will present its full range of solutions for improving efficiency, enhancing revenue and reducing physician burnout at the 2026 HIMSS Global Health Conference & Exhibition , Booth #645, at the Venetian Convention & Expo Center, Las Vegas, March 9-12. ScribeRyte AI records patient encounters and delivers close to 100% accurate clinical notes generated instantly during a patient visit. With minimal training, ScribeRyte AI's ambient clinical documentation system intuitively monitors a physician's charting habits and the details of a patient's medical history, and predicts what should be included in each note, saving hours of valuable time. ScribeRyte AI is multi-lingual, and may be customized with specialty templates, predictive phrases and prescription preferences. Seamless integration with most leading EMRs optimizes workflow efficiency. A new ClickNote solution is also now available as a free browser extension in the Google Chrome Web Store to auto-insert notes directly into the correct patient chart fields on any browser-based EMR. ScribeRyte AI is available as a standalone solution or paired with remote scribe review for seamless practice alignment. AI-generated notes are quickly reviewed to ensure integrity and practice compliance and released into the EMR in under two hours. Live customer support is also available 24/7. Best in KLAS Award For the third consecutive year, ScribeEMR will be awarded the "Best in KLAS for Virtual Scribing Services" award at the Best in KLAS Show 2026, which will be held during HIMSS on March 9 at 7:30 pm PST. ScribeEMR's top performing virtual scribing services are ranked #1 in the 2026 Best in KLAS: Software & Services report, whichfeatures software and services companies who excel in helping healthcare professionals improve patient care. The healthcare IT industry holds Best in KLAS vendors to the highest standards of excellence. Annual rankings are based on feedback from thousands of providers nationwide submitted during the past year. Customers surveyed for the 2026 Best in KLAS: Software & Services Report graded ScribeEMR's commitment to maintaining strong relationships, value, service, and operations, which earned the company an overall 91.9 KLAS score. "ScribeRyte AI clinical documentation solutions continue to gain market traction," says ScribeEMR Senior Vice President Terry Ciesla. "Our hybrid AI documentation and scribe offering, in particular, gives providers even greater confidence that their charts are being thoroughly reviewed before they sign off. Customer feedback, including accolades featured in recently released KLAS reports, are strong validation in an increasingly cluttered AI field." ScribeEMR recently completed both its PwC HIPAA Security & Privacy Assessment and its Accorp SOC 2 Type II Audit to ensure enterprise-grade security standards for all AI-driven and remote scribing workflows.
BGE, Inc. Expands into Nashville Market to Support Southeast U.S. Infrastructure Growth
Thu, Feb 19, 2026 09:00 EST
BGE, Inc. , a leading full-service engineering consulting firm and infrastructure solutions provider for the public and private sectors, has expanded its footprint in the Southeast United States (U.S.) with entry into the Nashville market. The expansion is led by Matthew D. Korte, P.E. , an experienced civil engineer and multidisciplinary leader specializing in retail, commercial, residential, and general land/site development across the southern U.S. BGE's Nashville expansion reflects a measured growth strategy focused on markets that align with the firm's long-standing client relationships and technical expertise. With decades of experience supporting development in high-growth regions throughout the Southeast, BGE is positioned to help Nashville-area developers and brokers address evolving infrastructure and site development needs. Servicing a Growing Market in Nashville As BGE begins serving clients in Nashville, the firm will provide services for Land/Site Development, Planning + Landscape Architecture, Construction Management, Public Works, Technology Solutions, and Transportation Systems. Initial efforts will focus on land and site development, leveraging BGE's regional expertise and deep knowledge of development patterns throughout the Southeast. "Nashville represents a natural extension of our services across the markets BGE has served successfully for years," said Eric Hampton, SVP and Southeast Region Operations Leader. "Our entry into Tennessee is client-driven, supported by Matt's proven leadership and diverse technical expertise. We look forward to serving clients The BGE Way ." Building Comprehensive Solutions, The BGE Way Korte brings extensive experience in retail-driven land and site civil engineering, as well as a strong track record of establishing and growing practices in new markets. His background includes leading multidisciplinary teams, supporting complex developments, and working closely with developers and brokers to deliver practical, efficient solutions. "I'm excited to help bring BGE's proven approach to the Nashville market," said Korte. "BGE has built its reputation by forming strong relationships and delivering consistent results, and the collaborative One Team culture is a natural fit. I look forward to supporting clients as they navigate growth and development opportunities across Tennessee and beyond." Founded in Houston in 1975, BGE has grown into a trusted partner for public and private clients, guided by the core values of integrity, respect, commitment, and an excellent reputation. The firm's entry into Nashville reflects both its long-term confidence in the region and its disciplined approach to expansion.
Supporting Childhood Literacy: Reading Fairy Encourages Families To 'Share Your Shelves' for World Book Giving Day
Thu, Feb 19, 2026 05:31 EST
Reading Fairy locations across the UK are encouraging families to 'share their shelves' this week and help other youngsters discover the joy of reading by donating a book that's no longer needed. Now in its fourth year, the 'Share Your Shelves' initiative has become a much-loved fixture in the Reading Fairy calendar, with every location participating since 2022. The idea is simple: families donate books that are no longer read at home, and Reading Fairy leaders redistribute them within their communities. Some are gifted directly to nurseries and schools; others are left in safe public spaces for children to discover and take home. The aim is to widen access to books and encourage reading for pleasure at a time when early literacy levels are under pressure. Reading Fairy Lancaster class leader Kelly Akister shared more than 1,000 books last year alone and has dished out 2,588 titles over the past 18 months. Alongside hiding individual stories for children to find, she has donated full class and nursery sets so that children can choose a book of their own to keep. "For me it is the joy of a child finding a new (and free) book to enjoy," she said. "Often our homes are full of duplicates, unloved or outgrown books. What we might be storing could be another family's treasure." It is easy to assume that every child has access to books at home, but reality is different. New research from Kindred Squared found that 37% of children are starting school without the basic skills they need to thrive - a 5% increase on 2024. One in four children lack basic language skills, 35% struggle to hold a pencil or crayon, and 28% do not know how to use a book correctly, often trying to swipe the pages. Tara Nathan, class leader at Reading Fairy in Sutton, Surrey said, "It is shocking to know that 28% of children don't know how to handle books correctly and try to swipe to read. Developing early literacy skills is fundamental in children's early years and by providing children with books, it will hopefully encourage them to show an interest in understanding how to use it. "Knowing that children will get joy and excitement from discovering a book is so powerful for me. Children love joining in and helping me hide books too which teaches them how to share their love of books too." For more information, visit www.readingfairy.com .
Are UK Retailers Underestimating the 2026 Warehouse Labour Gap?
Thu, Feb 19, 2026 05:25 EST
With January behind us, retailers look at the rest of the year ahead - and Midland Pallet Trucks is warning that many may be underestimating the operational impact of a widening warehouse labour gap. With ongoing recruitment challenges and sustained wage pressure, equipment strategy will play a far greater role in workforce stability than some businesses currently recognise. While much of the industry conversation focuses on automation and system upgrades, day-to-day warehouse productivity still relies heavily on manual handling. Pallet trucks remain one of the most widely used pieces of equipment across retail distribution, yet they are often overlooked in strategic workforce planning. According to Midland Pallet Trucks, rising wage costs combined with a tighter labour pool are pushing more operators to reassess how physical strain affects both performance and retention. Semi-electric pallet trucks are seeing increased interest from retailers seeking a balance between affordability and reduced operator fatigue. "Labour shortages aren't just about headcount: they're about sustainability," said Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks. "If your team is physically exhausted by the end of every shift, you'll see it in absenteeism, turnover and slower throughput. Investing in the right equipment can make a noticeable difference to how long people stay and how well they perform." Manual pallet trucks remain suitable for many low-volume tasks, but in higher-throughput retail environments, repeated lifting and manoeuvring can place significant strain on operators. Semi-electric models reduce the physical effort required for lifting and propulsion without the capital outlay of full automation. For many mid-sized warehouses, this represents a practical step forward rather than a wholesale transformation. Retailers who align equipment decisions with workforce realities will be better positioned to protect both productivity and retention in the year ahead. Midland Pallet Trucks has observed that retailers upgrading from purely manual fleets often report smoother peak periods, particularly during seasonal spikes. "Equipment shouldn't be viewed purely as a cost line," Chesworth added. "In the current climate, it's part of your retention strategy. When staff feel that the business is investing in tools that make their jobs safer and more manageable, it sends a strong message." With 2026 workforce projections indicating continued competition for skilled warehouse operatives, the company believes retailers must think beyond recruitment drives alone. Practical adjustments to materials handling equipment - such as pallet trucks, stacker trucks and lift tables - may offer a more immediate and measurable return. For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .
Swansea and Neath Port Talbot ALN pupils explore the world of work
Thu, Feb 19, 2026 04:48 EST
Over 220 young people with additional learning needs (ALN) from across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and the surrounding area came together to explore future career options in an engaging and supportive environment. The "What Next? An Exploration of the World of Work" event - organised by Careers Wales in collaboration with My Choice Swansea - was held at TramShed Tech Swansea on Wednesday 11 February 2026. The event offered learners a welcoming space to build confidence, try new activities and connect with local employers. Bringing together over 20 employers and colleges, the event gave pupils a chance to explore different industries, and ask questions about the world of work. Learners took part in a range of practical tasks, explored different job roles, attended employer-led workshops, and received personalised advice from Careers Wales careers advisers. Rebecca Thomas, a Careers Wales business engagement adviser, said: "Giving young people the chance to speak directly with employers and take part in practical activities makes a huge difference. It helps them to understand what opportunities are available and builds the confidence they need to take their next steps." Catrin Leader, the education lead at Bute Energy, said: "I'm pleased to be here today. It's important that young people have the opportunity to see what's out there and what future career opportunities they might have. It's also valuable for us as businesses to meet young people, understand what interests them, and make our approach relevant so they can be part of the future." David Bawden, strategic co-ordinator education skills at Swansea Council, said: "We are proud to support 'What Next? - An Exploration of the World of Work' at Tramshed Swansea. Working with Careers Wales, employers and partners, this inspiring event gives young people with additional learning needs the opportunity to explore future pathways in an inclusive, hands-on environment. It's about building confidence, raising aspirations and ensuring every learner can see a positive and achievable future beyond school." Schools in attendance: Maes Derw School PRU Ysgol Maes Y Coed School Morriston Comprehensive School Ysgol Bryn Castell Ysgol Calon Lân Ysgol Gymraeg Ystalyfera Bro Dur Ysgol Gyfun Gŵyr Ysgol Hendrefelin The full list of employers and colleges in attendance at the event: Angel Advocates Brave Art Drama Theatre Bute Energy Dryard Bushcraft DVLA EE Gower College Legacy in the Community Monmouthshire Building Society Morgan Sindall Neath Port Talbot College Neath Port Talbot Council Neurokind Careers Organised Kaos Ospreys in the Community Ruskin Mill Shine Cymru Swansea Council - My Choice Swansea Swansea ITEC Technocamps Tramshed Tech Vision Fountain Westwards For more information about future career events and resources, please visit the Careers Wales website .
Case Engineering Designs Solutions to Structural Challenges at Flagship Ford Dealership in St. Louis
Wed, Feb 18, 2026 12:28 EST
Case Engineering partnered with architectural firm V Three Studios to complete the first ground-up Ford dealership in the St. Louis metro area in over 40 years. "The completed dealership reflects a successful team effort and stands as a flagship example of Ford's next-generation retail environment in the St. Louis market," said V three Studios Architectural Designer Remington Knight. Located at 1015 South Callaham Road in Wentzville, MO, the new 71,000 sq ft Clement Ford officially opened in November 2025. As one of the first dealerships in the country to implement Ford's new Signature Design standards, the $45 million facility delivers a modern, customer-focused environment featuring a dedicated Bronco showroom, expansive service department with 38 lifts, and upgraded amenities that align with Ford's evolving retail vision. Midway through construction, the facility was redesigned to incorporate the updated brand criteria, which required significant coordination across the design and construction teams. With limited documentation available at the time, much of the new design was interpreted from Ford's published renderings and translated into full constructible drawing sets. Case's structural team worked closely with the owner, Clement Auto Group, general contractor Musick Construction, and the architect to design the support necessary to accommodate the updated design. "Because the architectural design intent changed multiple times throughout the project's timeline, with several design changes occurring during the construction phase, our team was challenged to turnaround structural solutions quickly to keep the construction moving forward with minimal delays," said Case Structural Department Manager Dino Chirco, PE. The building's main support is comprised of load bearing, 12-inch-wide CMU blocks and structural steel frames with CMU shear wall and steel moment frames for its lateral design components. One of the more complex early design elements included a 300-foot-high architectural archway/brand wall that extended along both sides of the building. While the feature was fully detailed and coordinated, it was ultimately removed as part of Ford's evolving design. The process required flexibility and strong collaboration between the architect, structural engineer and general contractor to maintain the schedule and budget while adapting to the new standards. "Due to the curtain wall's height, we had to design a steel girt near its mid-point to break up the span of the curtain wall and reduce out-of-plane deflections," said Chirco. "The original design also included a 32-foot-tall by 230-foot-long curved sign wall comprised of trussed tube steel members spanning over the top of the structure from one end of the front elevation to the other. This design was very challenging to complete and required multiple weeks of meetings and design iterations using finite element analysis software to complete. It was ultimately removed from the design intent when the owner decided to update the building design to the newest Ford prototype mid-construction." The design of the dealership's large, open shop area also required an equally unique structural solution. "The roof joists in the shop area needed to clear-span the 132-foot-wide shop area due to the owner and Ford Corporate not wanting interior column lines to interfere with the car driving lanes or positions of the car lifts," said Chirco. "To accommodate this challenge, we designed DLH-series joists that were 5'-6" deep that were bolted together from two segments in the field." The dealership design also included a large mezzanine roughly the same area as half of the sales floor with an elevator for access. To accommodate this design feature, Case's engineers specified concrete over metal deck on the bar joists spaced at two feet off center for its construction. "The elevator shaft foundation design was very difficult due to several footing steps and its location next to the mezzanine which required additional coordination to ensure that there were no interferences," he said. For more information about Case Engineering's structural services, visit www.caseengineeringinc.com/services/ .
Keeper Security Brings Native Google Cloud Support to KeeperPAM for Unified, Multi-Cloud Privileged Access Management
Wed, Feb 18, 2026 07:36 EST
Native integration extends zero-trust identity security and privileged access management across Google Cloud, AWS and Microsoft Azure Keeper Security , the leading zero-trust and zero-knowledge identity security and Privileged Access Management (PAM) platform, today announces expanded PAM capabilities for Google Cloud Platform (GCP) environments. The latest enhancements to KeeperPAM enable organisations to centrally manage and monitor privileged access, and rotate privileged credentials for Google Cloud infrastructure and Google Workspace identities - addressing one of the most persistent security blind spots in modern cloud environments. As organisations accelerate cloud adoption, identity-based attacks have become a leading cause of data breaches. This risk is amplified by AI-driven automation, which dramatically increases the number and privilege of Non-Human Identities (NHIs) operating in cloud environments. In Google Cloud environments, privileged access is often fragmented, spanning non-human identities like service accounts and automation, as well as human identities embedded within IAM policies. These accounts frequently remain overprivileged and the credentials unrotated, which creates an expanded identity attack surface and increases the blast radius when a compromise occurs. KeeperPAM closes this gap by delivering identity-first, cloud-native PAM for Google Cloud - converging infrastructure, SaaS and NHI security into a single zero-trust platform. "Cloud security failures rarely stem from a single misconfiguration - they stem from unmanaged identity sprawl," said Darren Guccione, CEO and Co-founder of Keeper Security. "With KeeperPAM, organisations can apply zero-trust principles consistently across Google Cloud infrastructure and Google Workspace identities, enforcing least privilege and eliminating standing access without adding complexity." Unifying Infrastructure and Identity Security in Google Cloud KeeperPAM integrates with Google Cloud using a dedicated service account and a lightweight Keeper Gateway, enabling outbound-only, agentless access that aligns with zero-trust architecture. The platform automatically discovers GCP resources and identifies privileged identities referenced in IAM policies, including Google Workspace users. Key capabilities include: Unified privileged access management for GCP and Google Workspace: Secure and govern both infrastructure credentials and human identities from a single platform. Automated credential rotation: Rotate passwords for Google Workspace users and cloud service accounts to eliminate standing privileges. Least-privilege enforcement by design: Support for custom, minimal-permission IAM roles reduces over privileged access and limits the blast radius of a breach. Zero-knowledge protection for cloud credentials: Service account keys and privileged credentials are encrypted and stored in the Keeper Vault, never exposed to users or endpoints. Audit-ready visibility and compliance: Centralised logging and reporting simplify audits and support regulatory requirements across cloud environments. Built for Modern Cloud, Multi-Cloud and Hybrid Environments Unlike legacy PAM solutions designed for on-premises infrastructure, KeeperPAM is cloud-native and purpose-built for cloud, multi-cloud and hybrid environments. The platform requires no inbound firewall changes, no bastion hosts and no agents, allowing organisations to secure Google Cloud environments without disrupting existing architectures or workflows. These capabilities extend KeeperPAM's unified privileged access controls consistently across Google Cloud, AWS and Microsoft Azure. "Most PAM tools were never designed to manage cloud identities at scale, especially human identities embedded in SaaS platforms like Google Workspace," said Craig Lurey, CTO and Co-founder of Keeper Security. "KeeperPAM reflects how cloud environments actually operate today, delivering practical least-privilege controls, automated rotation and visibility across identities that attackers increasingly target." Reducing Breach Impact Through Zero Trust By eliminating standing access and enforcing continuous verification, KeeperPAM helps organisations reduce the impact of credential compromise. The platform supports a zero-trust, assume-breach security model that limits lateral movement and shortens the window of exposure when credentials are misused. The new Google Cloud capabilities are available immediately as part of the KeeperPAM platform. Full technical documentation is available at docs.keeper.io . ### About Keeper Security Keeper Security is one of the fastest-growing cybersecurity software companies that protects thousands of organisations and millions of people in over 150 countries. Keeper is a pioneer of zero-knowledge and zero-trust security built for any IT environment. Its core offering, KeeperPAM®, is an AI-enabled, cloud-native platform that protects all users, devices and infrastructure from cyber attacks. Recognised for its innovation in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Privileged Access Management (PAM), Keeper secures passwords and passkeys, infrastructure secrets, remote connections and endpoints with role-based enforcement policies, least privilege and just-in-time access. Learn why Keeper is trusted by leading organisations to defend against modern adversaries at KeeperSecurity.com . Learn more: KeeperSecurity.com Follow Keeper: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube TikTok
£200,000 superheroes film prop auction comes to Ewbank's on February 27
Wed, Feb 18, 2026 07:10 EST
Captain America, Judge Dredd, Wonder Woman, Dr Strange and Conan feature with The Mandalorian, Predator and Harry Potter Props and film memorabilia from some of the biggest blockbuster films of recent times, including Star Wars, Dr Strange and Wonder Woman, are expected to fetch up to £200,000 at Ewbank's on February 27. The top lot is expected to be the Atlantean sword wielded by Arnold Schwarzenegger as Conan in Richard Fleischer's 1984 fantasy action sequel Conan the Destroyer. At 39 inches long, designed by legendary artist Ron Cobb and made by master bladesmith Jody Samson, this suitably distressed resin sword is expected to fetch up to £20,000. Carrying hopes of £12,000 is a Wonder Woman tiara made for the 2017 film starring Gal Gadot, complete with her initials. GG, to the lining. A set of Wonder Woman gauntlets from the film has a guide of £8,000-10,000. These items, along with around 100 more in this auction, come from the collection of a TV and movie professional who has worked on over 50 films. Also up for grabs is a production-made Eye of Agamotto necklace/prop from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) 'Phase 3' film Doctor Strange (2016), starring Benedict Cumberbatch. This version of the necklace, worn by Dr Strange himself, was probably intended for scenes where the 'Eye' of the necklace was closed, which is why the 'Time Stone' that resides within it is not visible. The estimate is £7,000-10,000. Blockbuster TV series also feature, including the 2019 hit Star Wars offshoot The Mandalorian (2019). A production-made helmet as worn by a member of a Mandalorian covert in the first season of the Disney+ original series, it is pitched at £5,000-8,000. The same estimate applies to an Emissary Predator No. 2 animatronic prop head from 2018 outing of The Predator by 20th Century Fox/Studios film. Captain America also features. A production-made Stage 1 Captain America WWII shield prop from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) 'Phase 1' film, The First Avenger, in 2011 was likely intended to be used for the scenes in the film which take place in World War II, before Steve Rogers becomes frozen and wakes up the present. It is expected to fetch £3,000-5,000. At the same guide is a production made helmet made for the main character Judge Dredd (played by Karl Urban) from Dredd (2012), Alex Garland's movie adaptation of the classic comic book character. A wealth of Harry Potter props, from scripts and Hogwarts coats of arms to golden snitches, range in price from around £100 to several thousand. They include an original production made wand created for Gary Oldman as Sirius Black in the fifth instalment of the popular fantasy film franchise, The Order of the Phoenix, which has an estimate of £1,000-2,000. Other films whose props feature include Deadpool & Wolverine (2024), Charlie and The Chocolate Factory (2005), The Mummy (1999), Holmes & Watson (2018), Guardians of the Galaxy (2014), Alien (1979), The Fifth Element (1997), Gladiator (2000), Batman Begins (2005) and Jurassic Park (1993). "It's not often that you get such a wide variety of props from so many hit films across such a long time span as this in a single collection coming up for auction," said auctioneer Andrew Ewbank. "There are many items that were specifically made for use as the films were being shot in studios or on location, so this creates a wonderful opportunity for fans to acquire something really special from their favourite movies." The full catalogue for the February 27 Movie Props, Film / TV & Memorabilia sale is available online at www.ewbankauctions.co.uk Live online bidding will be available on the day via the website. For further information or images, please contact info@lucasfieldmedia.com Tel: +44 (0)7968 952850 Images courtesy of Ewbank's Auctioneers Captions Highlights from the collection of a TV and movie professional who has worked on over 50 films: Conan Auctioneer Andrew Ewbank with the Conan The Barbarian sword, estimated at £10,000-20,000. Dredd Auctioneer Andrew Ewbank with the Judge Dredd helmet, £3,000-5,000. America Auctioneer Andrew Ewbank with Captain America's helmet and shield, £3,000-5,000. Dr Strange The Eye of Agamotto necklace/prop from Doctor Strange, £7,000-10,000 Wonder Woman Wonder Woman's Tiara - £10,000-12,000, and a set of her gauntlets - £8,000-10,000. About Ewbank's Auctions Ewbank's are the Premier International Antiques and Fine Art Valuers and Auctioneers. Based near Guildford, we cover Surrey and South London, with registered bidders logging on from upwards of 50 countries on a regular basis to buy lots. Having celebrated over 35 years in business, Ewbank's have pioneered new areas of collecting for years and have now become the pre-eminent UK auction house for Popular Culture, with dedicated departments and auctions in Entertainment Memorabilia including Vintage Posters, Sporting Memorabilia, Comics and Comic Books, Music and Vinyl, Trading Cards, Retro Video Games, Tabletop Gaming and James Bond 007. We continue to offer all the major collecting disciplines at auction, from Fine Art and Ceramics, to Silver, Coins, Clocks and Watches and Furniture and Works of Art, as well as 20th Century Art and Design, Luxury Goods, Asian Art, Militaria, Books, Toys, Garden and Architectural, Vintage Fashion, Textiles and Fine Wine, and Classic Cars, Bikes and Automobilia. Additional specialist sales categories now include Pre-Loved, Vintage & Antique, Interiors & Modern Design, Contemporary Art, Editions & Modern British Pictures. Single-owner collections in recent years have included the Football Memorabilia of former Manchester United captain Norman Whiteside; the Bray Studios sale of Gerry Anderson memorabilia, relating to classics such as Thunderbirds, Captain Scarlet and Terrahawks; the Tony Hart Collection; and The Sir Ray Tindle Silver Collection. We are proud to foster new and young talent among our specialists, as well as greatly valuing the decades of expertise among our more senior staff and consultants. In 2025, the company posted a record sales turnover of £7.93 million.
Extreme Weather Disruption: Why Crisis Planning Must Include the Warehouse Floor
Wed, Feb 18, 2026 05:40 EST
Following January's record rainfall, with weeks of heavy rain and localised flooding across parts of the UK, Pallet Trucks UK is reminding warehouse operators that crisis planning must extend beyond transport routes and supplier networks to include the warehouse floor itself. While road closures and delivery delays often dominate headlines during severe weather events, the operational strain inside storage and distribution facilities can be just as disruptive. Extreme weather frequently forces emergency adjustments within warehouses. Stock may need to be relocated away from vulnerable loading bays, ground-level storage areas or buildings affected by leaks and damp. Temporary reconfiguration of layouts, rapid consolidation of goods and urgent despatch changes can all place sudden pressure on manual handling processes. In these scenarios, dependable pallet trucks and lifting equipment become critical. Moving stock quickly and safely, often in tighter or improvised layouts, demands equipment that can be relied upon without hesitation - but cold and damp conditions can expose weaknesses in poorly maintained equipment, from stiff hydraulics to degraded wheels that struggle on wet surfaces. Equipment failure during adverse weather can slow response times, increase manual strain and heighten the risk of accidents, particularly if floors are slippery or visibility is reduced. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Trucks UK, said, "Extreme weather doesn't just affect what happens on the roads. It has a direct impact on how warehouses operate. When businesses need to move stock quickly to protect it, the last thing they need is handling equipment that can't cope with damp or cold conditions. "Crisis planning often focuses on supply routes and contingency suppliers, but it should also include a clear plan for how goods will be repositioned inside the building. Reliable and well-maintained equipment, from pallet trucks to stackers and lift tables, will give teams the confidence to work quickly and safely when conditions change." Pallet Trucks UK advises operators to review the condition of their manual handling equipment as part of broader resilience planning, ensuring wheels, hydraulics and braking systems are suited to fluctuating temperatures and moisture levels. Even simple checks and timely replacements can prevent avoidable disruption during challenging weather. For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk .
3rd Annual Reparations Summit Comes to the Inland Empire
Tue, Feb 17, 2026 16:23 EST
"This summit will inform, heal, and motivate for real progress in forming a more perfect union," said Rev. Chuck Singleton of Kaleidoscope Global Network and Loveland Church. FONTANA, CA - The National Volunteer Council on Freedmen Affairs ( NVCFA ), in partnership with the Kaleidoscope Global Network, is proud to announce the 3rd Annual Reparations Summit & Candidate Forum . This landmark event will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026 , from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM PST at Loveland Church in Fontana, California. This year's summit, themed "Restorative Justice: Healing the Past, Empowering the Future," arrives at a critical juncture in the national movement for reparations. "As a leader in advocating for the descendants of persons enslaved in the United States, the NVCFA designed this summit to bridge the gap between grassroots activism and legislative action," said founder and NVCFA CEO Juanita L. Watson. "This summit will inform, heal, and motivate for real progress in forming a more perfect union," said Rev. Chuck Singleton of Kaleidoscope Global Network and Loveland Church. He continued, "We are providing a platform for the community to engage directly with candidates who are committed to addressing the unpaid debt and perpetual injustices suffered by the American Freedmen descendant class." Event Highlights Include: Candidate Forum: A unique opportunity to hear from and question political candidates regarding their stance on local, state, and federal reparations legislation. Inspiring Speakers: The keynote speaker is Chad Brown, who will share insights on his "radical, innovative, and cutting-edge' approach to social progress. Additionally, other renowned activists and scholars will facilitate engaging conversations about community impact and restorative justice. Hybrid Access: While the summit encourages in-person connection at Loveland Church, a Zoom link is provided for nationwide participation. To obtain the link register online. The NVCFA's mission remains focused on securing comprehensive legislative redress for systemic inequalities in education, housing, healthcare, and civil rights. This event serves as a call to action for all community members, advocates, and allies to join the pursuit of justice. Registration Information: Attendees are encouraged to reserve their spots early via Eventbrite for online and in-person tickets. Scan the QR code on our official flyers or visit the link below to register: Reserve Your Spot Here. About NVCFA The National Volunteer Council on Freedmen Affairs (NVCFA) is a grassroots coalition dedicated to advocating for lineage-based reparations for American Freedmen. Through education and legislative advocacy, NVCFA works to rectify the historical harms of slavery and promote a robust Black agenda to uplift the community. The California Reparations Report - This video provides essential historical and legislative context for the California reparations movement, which serves as a foundation for discussions at NVCFA summits.
Shell Tech™ Opens Sponsorship Opportunities for 2026 Legends & Heroes Shootout Charity Event
Tue, Feb 17, 2026 15:06 EST
Shell Tech™, the ammunition branch of Shell Shock Technologies , LLC. (SST), announces that official sponsorship opportunities are now available for the 2026 Shell Tech Legends & Heroes Shootout, set for March 20 - 21, 2026, in Sunrise and Miami, Florida. The second annual, invitation-only charity event will unite Major League Baseball legends, U.S. military veterans, firearms industry leaders, and premium brand partners for two days of purpose-driven experiences. All net proceeds from the event will directly benefit K9 Heroes 4 Heroes , which provides service dogs to veterans and first responders, and the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF) , which provides critical support for the warriors, veterans, and families of Naval Special Warfare. The Legends & Heroes Shootout offers sponsors national PR exposure, industry media coverage, elite networking access, and authentic brand storytelling opportunities. "Sponsorship of the Legends & Heroes Shootout is about aligning with a mission that delivers measurable impact," said Peter Foss , Managing Partner and CEO of Shell Shock Technologies. "Our goal is not only to raise $50,000 to fully fund a service dog for a Navy SEAL, but to bring together our industry, America's heroes, and iconic athletes in a way that creates lasting partnerships and real-world support for those who serve." Sponsorship tiers range from Gold to Premier, each offering escalating brand visibility and engagement opportunities. Benefits include logo placement on the event website and signage, inclusion in swag bags, press release mentions, VIP cocktail reception access, golf foursomes, and guaranteed interaction with MLB legends. Premier sponsors receive top-tier logo placement across all venues, inclusion on the official welcome banner, custom athlete and veteran thank-you videos, and product sampling or display opportunities. The weekend begins Friday, March 20, 2026, with a private, sponsor-focused range date at Markham Park Shooting Range featuring exclusive 100-yard range access, a Steel Challenge 9mm pistol competition powered by Shell Tech NAS 3 ™ performance ammunition, and live-fire manufacturer showcases. That evening, sponsors and VIPs will attend a curated cocktail reception at the AC Hotel at Sawgrass Mills. On Saturday, March 21, 2026, the event moves to Trump National Doral for a limited-to-eight-foursomes celebrity charity golf tournament hosted by MLB legend Raul Ibanez. Confirmed celebrity participants include MLB Hall of Famer Adrian Beltre, three-time World Series Champion "El Duque" Hernandez, World Series Champion Raul Ibanez, World Series Champion Jayson Werth, MLB Gold Glove Winner Placido Polanco, Two-Time World Series Champion and Three-Time MVP Albert Pujols, and Three-Time Cy Young Award Winner and World Series Champion Max Scherzer. Sponsor capacity is limited to preserve the event's exclusive format and high-touch engagement. To secure sponsorship or request additional information, please contact Foss at peter@shellshocktech.com . View the Sponsorship Media Kit here . Watch a video from last year's event here: https://youtu.be/ADDyCyzMjHA?si=51Z_5DU4hfhSMoiC . Keep up with Shell Tech's advanced ammunition on the website and social media platforms: Facebook , Instagram , X (formerly Twitter) , and YouTube .
Combining Nerve Blocks with Therapy Speeds Recovery in Military Personnel, Veterans
Tue, Feb 17, 2026 14:59 EST
Stellate ganglion block alongside cognitive processing therapy leads to faster improvement from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Key Takeaways Researchers found that adding a stellate ganglion block (SGB) to cognitive processing therapy (CPT) helps military members and veterans feel better and recover from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms more quickly. SGB works best when given before therapy, but it can also be given after CPT to help people who did not feel better with CPT alone. This innovative approach could help military personnel return to work faster and could be especially useful when specialized PTSD care is hard to find, like in rural areas. Military service members and veterans frequently experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is linked to a range of psychological challenges and adverse effects. Cognitive-behavioral therapies like cognitive processing therapy (CPT) are the main treatments for PTSD and are most effective when given daily. However, many patients continue to have PTSD symptoms after treatment, highlighting the need for more research to improve its effectiveness. In previous studies, stellate ganglion block (SGB), a long-acting anesthetic injection into the cervical spine thought to "reset" sympathetic arousal, has shown promise as an additional treatment by reducing PTSD symptoms. In a first-ever randomized clinical trial, researchers at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and College of Medicine evaluated the efficacy of SGB when delivered in combination with front-line PTSD psychotherapy treatment. "Our research shows SGB enhances CPT effectiveness when administered beforehand. Military personnel and veterans not helped by initial daily CPT experienced significant PTSD symptom reduction when SGB is given after CPT," said senior study author Jaryd Hiser, PhD , psychologist at Ohio State's Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health. "In addition, we found that SGB before CPT may offer a faster treatment response for some patients." Study findings are published in the journal Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics. The study involved 86 military personnel and veterans with PTSD, who were given SGB either before or after daily CPT. PTSD symptoms were measured using the PCL-5, a standardized tool for assessing post-traumatic stress after a traumatic event. Hiser noted that the intervention produced quick and effective results. Over an average period of just two weeks, participants' PCL scores fell from 50 to 20-more than double the standard improvement-and this positive effect lasted for at least one year after treatment. PTSD is the most common mental health issue among military personnel and veterans, affecting up to 23% of this population. PTSD often results from combat trauma, but can also result from non-combat trauma, such as sexual assault, domestic violence or childhood abuse. PTSD causes psychological issues like intrusive thoughts, avoidance, mood and cognitive shifts, and increased arousal, which can lead to problems such as work or relationship dissatisfaction, aggression, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts. These challenges hinder deployment readiness and diminish the overall quality of life for military personnel. Though the sample included veterans and service members, many participants had non-combat trauma. The results suggest this therapy could also benefit civilians with difficult trauma cases. While veterans were the main focus, these treatments could help others as well, Hiser said. "The combination of SGB before daily CPT may be of particular interest to the Department of Defense for treating military personnel with PTSD," Hiser said. "Such an approach could maximize treatment response in a brief period of time and return military personnel to mission readiness sooner. This approach could also enhance clinical efficiency by reducing symptoms quickly, which is important because specialized PTSD care is not always available, especially in rural areas." Funding Sources This work was supported in part by grants from The Navy Seal Foundation, The USAA Foundation and The Bob Woodruff Foundation and charitable contributions from Honor 365, Ride To Zero and 33 Forever. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of these organizations. The funders had no role in study design, data collection, data analysis data interpretation, or writing of the article. Conflict of Interest Disclosures Jaryd Hiser, PhD, declares no conflict of interest. Other authors declare various conflicts of interest.
SGS offers complimentary webinar exploring energy-based technologies for safe skincare
Tue, Feb 17, 2026 10:16 EST
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is delighted to host the webinar, 'Clinical Testing in Aesthetic Dermatology - Energy-Based Devices and Cosmetic Pre- and Post-Treatments' on February 24, 2026. Science is rapidly transforming the aesthetic dermatology industry, introducing technical innovations in the form of energy-based technologies such as intense pulsed light (IPL) and laser treatments that provide safe and effective alternatives to traditional skincare approaches for addressing concerns such as acne and rosacea. With the additional opportunities presented by complementary pre- and post-treatment products, these technologies are becoming increasingly popular. At the same time, regulators are strengthening oversight to protect consumers, meaning manufacturers must remain fully aware of their compliance obligations. In this complimentary webinar, the evolving fields of IPL, laser technologies and associated pre- and post-treatment products are demystified. An overview of energy-based devices provides an expert perspective on market trends and recognized testing methodologies for efficacy evaluation. As product success depends on regulatory compliance, insights will be shared on the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR), including Annex XVI and Regulation (EU) 2023/607, which sets out transitional provisions. Navigating the complexities of the regulatory landscape demands in-depth knowledge of best practices for both the devices and related skincare products, and a dedicated Q&A offers attendees the opportunity to leverage the expert knowledge of presenters Gunja Springmann and Britta Gudowski. This webinar is aimed at manufacturers of energy-based devices, developers of cosmetics for pre- and post-treatments and other professionals involved in product development, testing and compliance. It takes place on February 24, 2026, at 4:00 PM CET. Interested parties are encouraged to register now to ensure access to this webinar. For further information, please contact: Jennifer Buckley Senior Global Marketing Manager SGS, Health & Nutrition Tel: +1 9738669043
BX Partners Launches 12 Open-Architecture Portfolio Models on Nitrogen Partner Store
Tue, Feb 17, 2026 09:56 EST
Stock-and-ETF blended portfolios deliver risk-adjusted performance through a nonproprietary structure BX Partners announced the launch of 12 open-architecture portfolio models on the Nitrogen Partner Store. The BX models provide financial advisors with access to nonproprietary stock-and-ETF portfolios designed to align with client risk profiles and deliver risk-adjusted performance. The BX models are available directly within subscribing advisors' Nitrogen accounts and span four risk levels: moderately conservative, moderate, moderately aggressive, and aggressive, across three distinct portfolio structures: Global models using ETFs and individual stocks U.S.-only models using ETFs and individual stocks ETF-only U.S. models UNIQUE OFFERING WITHIN NITROGEN PARTNER STORE The inclusion of stock-and-ETF blended models is a unique offering within the Nitrogen Partner Store. The "nonproprietary" open‑architecture models help advisors demonstrate objectivity, reduce product-driven conflicts of interest, and often improve cost and fit for clients compared with proprietary fund/ETF lineups. Using models that are not tied to a single manufacturer helps advisors better align recommendations with their fiduciary duty and mitigate perceptions of bias or selling what the firm makes. For end investors, nonproprietary models can mean broader diversification tools, potential access to lower-cost or more specialized ETFs, and a clearer story about how products were chosen. BX said the models are designed to integrate into advisor workflows without overlay fees, separately managed account fees, or third-party asset management charges. Advisors pay only the underlying ETF expense ratios passed through to clients. "The BX open-architecture models are built to work with Nitrogen, not around it," said Craig Cmiel , co-founder of BX Partners. "It's innovative and the strategies are very effective. They also reflect what makes BX different. We're not a money manager, we're a model builder. We have a very friendly ecosystem and everything we built for these models is for the Nitrogen user." INTEGRATED WITH NITROGEN'S FRAMEWORK The BX models were developed to integrate with Nitrogen's risk profiling and scoring framework. Nitrogen scores translate client risk tolerance and portfolio construction into measurable risk alignment metrics, allowing advisors to evaluate whether portfolios are properly aligned with a client's risk profile. "Our models dial directly into Nitrogen's scoring system," Cmiel said. "They're developed for risk management and behavioral alignment, not emotional decision-making. That makes them practical, usable tools advisors can use in real client situations." The BX model suite is designed with a risk-adjusted performance framework, emphasizing drawdown mitigation, systematic portfolio construction, and diversified strategy exposure, not just asset class diversification. Once subscribed to the BX Partner Store tile, advisors gain access to all 12 models, allowing for implementation across a range of client profiles, risk tolerances, and portfolio strategies. Advisors can access the full BX model suite directly through the BX tile on the Nitrogen Partner Store. More information is available at BXIndex.com/Nitrogen . ABOUT NITROGEN Nitrogen is an industry leader, providing AI-enabled, client-facing software for financial advisors. Its integrated platform combines risk alignment, investment planning, tax planning, retirement planning, and proposal generation, helping advisors deliver smarter, more engaging meetings that win business and build lasting client confidence. Trusted by over 30,000 advisors, Nitrogen's technology is built to be seen, enabling advisors to swivel their monitor and guide clients through clear, visual insights that keep them invested in their advisor, fearlessly. Learn more at NitrogenWealth.com . ABOUT BX PARTNERS BX Partners is a research-driven investment consulting platform that supports financial professionals in building institutional-quality models with the goal of enhancing existing internal asset management platforms. BX combines quantitative, rules-based, and AI-enabled methodologies to curate high-conviction strategies designed to outperform across market cycles. The BX team conducts rigorous due diligence on many strategies each year, selecting only the ones that have the strongest potential to deliver risk-adjusted returns. The company has so far selected 25 leading research firms and 65 strategies to be included in the platform. BX is not a money manager. BX operates as a strategy engine, research partner, and open architecture solution. The BX technology suite includes the BX Advisor App, BX Risk Shield, and BX Core, giving financial professionals real-time analytics, market insights, and financial planning tools. BX Partners delivers the power behind the industry's most innovative investment departments. To learn more about BX Partners, visit BXIndex.com .
Move Over Collagen - Why 2026 Is the Year of Wholefood Skincare Nutrition
Tue, Feb 17, 2026 06:24 EST
The beauty and wellness industry has spent years focused on collagen supplements, promising firmer, more youthful skin in powder or capsule form. But as consumers become more informed, attention is turning to what the body needs to produce it in the first place. And what it needs is wholefood skincare nutrition, with Irish Sea Moss at the centre of this change. Collagen production is a complex biological process that relies on a range of nutrients working together. Vitamins and minerals, all play a role in supporting skin structure, repair and elasticity. Without these co-factors, collagen supplements are simply another form of protein, offering limited benefit for skin health on their own. Irish Sea Moss does something entirely different, delivering these supporting nutrients in their natural form. Lab-tested Irish Sea Moss from The Moss Way contains a wide array of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support skin from the inside out. Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation, while zinc supports cell renewal and wound healing. Copper plays a role in maintaining connective tissue, and antioxidants help protect skin cells from oxidative stress caused by cold weather, indoor heating and environmental exposure. Beyond nutrition, sea moss has a long-standing place in traditional skincare practices. Its naturally soothing texture means it can be applied directly to the skin as a mask, helping to calm dryness and support hydration during winter. Taken internally or used topically, it offers a flexible approach to holistic self-care. Harry Morgan, founder of The Moss Way, believes this marks a turning point in how people think about beauty supplements. "We're seeing a real shift away from single-ingredient products and towards understanding how the body works as a system. Sea moss supports collagen production by providing the nutrients skin needs, rather than trying to shortcut the process. "Essentially, Irish Sea Moss gives the body all the building blocks it needs to create collagen as needed!" As consumers look ahead to the new year, wholefood skincare nutrition is set to define the next phase of wellness. Irish Sea Moss, harvested sustainably from Irish waters and backed by modern testing, offers a grounded alternative to over-hyped trends, supporting skin health through 2026 and beyond. For more information, visit www.themossway.co.uk .
Retailers Expanding Outlet and Clearance Formats Face New Logistics Pressures, Says Pallet Truck Shop
Tue, Feb 17, 2026 06:00 EST
As more UK brands expand outlet and clearance formats to manage excess stock and meet consumer demand, Pallet Truck Shop, the UK's largest supplier of pallet and sack trucks, warns not to ignore the operational strain these models place on logistics and store handling processes. Outlet growth has accelerated as retailers look for efficient ways to move surplus inventory without eroding full-price brand positioning. However, clearance logistics rarely follow predictable patterns. Stock may arrive in bulk from multiple distribution centres, be redirected at short notice, or require rapid reallocation between sites depending on sales performance. This unpredictability is creating new handling challenges for both warehouses and outlet locations. Unlike standard replenishment models, clearance stock often lands in larger volumes and tighter timeframes, demanding immediate movement, sorting and redistribution. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Truck Shop, said the operational implications are often underestimated. "Outlet and clearance formats might seem straightforward from a customer perspective, but behind the scenes they generate complex, short-term handling spikes," he said. "Stock can arrive from several DCs at once, sometimes with minimal notice. If the right manual handling equipment isn't in place, that creates congestion and delays very quickly." Bulk transfers are one of the most notable pressures. Clearance stock is frequently moved in palletised quantities to clear warehouse space rapidly. Once on site, goods must be broken down, sorted and repositioned efficiently to avoid backroom gridlock. In outlet environments where storage areas are often limited, manual handling equipment - such as pallet trucks, manual stackers and table trucks - become essential tools. The short-term nature of clearance operations increases the need for durable, low-maintenance solutions. "When retailers run pop-up clearance events or seasonal outlet pushes, they don't have time to troubleshoot unreliable kit. Equipment must perform immediately and cope with intensive use over a condensed period." Increased short-term handling demand also places added strain on staff. Teams may be dealing with fluctuating volumes and rapid stock turn, making ergonomics and ease of use critical to maintaining safety and productivity. "In clearance logistics, speed and control are everything," Chesworth concluded. "The right equipment ensures stock flows efficiently, even when the movement pattern is anything but predictable. To find out more about Pallet Truck Shop, visit: www.pallettruckshop.co.uk .
eXp Australia Appoints New Country Leader
Mon, Feb 16, 2026 15:11 EST
eXp Realty , one of the world's fastest-growing real estate companies, has announced the appointment of Mindy Powell-Hodges as Country Leader for Australia, marking a significant step in the company's continued growth and investment in the Australian market. Based in Sydney, Powell-Hodges brings more than 20 years of senior leadership experience across real estate, prop-tech, recruitment and membership-based networks. She is widely recognised for building and scaling national real estate brands, supporting high-performing agents and business owners, and fostering cultures that balance commercial performance with collaboration and sustainability. Throughout her career, Powell-Hodges has held executive leadership roles including Head of Network at Raine & Horne, where she played a pivotal role in national rebranding and network expansion, and Chief Operating Officer at prop-tech platform MyHomeVault, helping commercialise technology and data solutions within the real estate sector. Most recently, she served as Global Head of Membership at One Agency, supporting one of Australia's fastest-growing real estate networks through a period of rapid growth and international expansion. As Country Leader, Powell-Hodges will build on the existing operational foundations laid by eXp Australia to date, with a focus on supporting member agents to grow sustainably, allowing them to strengthen their performance, whilst cultivating a high-performance, people-first culture that connects Australian professionals with global learning, innovation and opportunity. In doing so, eXp Australia will allow them to unlock greater control over their business, brand, and long-term success.
SPC Tops Tampa Bay, Gains National Honors for Online Bachelor's Programs
Mon, Feb 16, 2026 14:57 EST
St. Petersburg College (SPC) continues to stand out in the latest U.S. News & World Report's Best Online Programs rankings, earning top regional and statewide recognition and delivering its strongest national performance to date. Recognized as a top college in the Tampa Bay region, SPC earned the following distinctions in the 2026 rankings: Best in Tampa Bay - Online Bachelor's Programs Best in Tampa Bay - Online Bachelor's Programs in Business Best in Tampa Bay - Online Bachelor's Programs for Veterans These results mark the sixth consecutive year SPC has ranked No. 1 in Tampa Bay for both Online Bachelor's Programs overall and for veterans. SPC's College of Business ranked No. 1 across the Florida College System and the Tampa Bay area, reinforcing the College's leadership in workforce-focused, career-aligned business education. "This No. 1 ranking reflects our commitment to delivering business education that is practical, flexible and aligned with real-world employer needs," said Dr. Emmanuel Hernandez-Agosto, dean of SPC's College of Business. "Being recognized as the top program in both Tampa Bay and the Florida College System confirms our graduates are ready to lead and contribute from day one." Nationally, SPC placed among the top 100 public institutions for Best Online Bachelor's Programs and among the top public colleges for Online Bachelor's Programs for Veterans, underscoring its leadership in high-quality, career-aligned online education. SPC's national recognition mirrors its broader impact on the region. Updated economic data show the College generates $3.5 billion annual economic impact, representing approximately 1.4% of Tampa Bay's gross regional product and supporting 37,083 jobs, or about one in every 60 jobs in the region. "This success reflects our students and the faculty and staff who support them," said Dr. Matthew Liao-Troth, SPC vice president of Academic Affairs. "Our focus on high-wage, high-impact careers is why SPC delivers a $3.5 billion economic impact through our students, alumni, faculty and staff and why we've led in online education for more than 25 years." Through more than 300 degrees, certificates and workforce training pathways, SPC aligns education with employer needs in high-demand fields, including business, health care, technology and public service, helping students gain job-ready skills that drive career mobility and regional growth. U.S. News & World Report has consistently ranked Florida as the No. 1 state for higher education, citing strong graduation rates, affordability and low student debt; distinctions reflected in SPC's continued performance among the state's top institutions.
