AMA and Epsilon Study Finds Identity Resolution Improves Personalization, Reach and Marketing Effectiveness
Wed, Jun 10, 2026 11:51 EDT
AMA and Epsilon Study Finds Identity Resolution Helps Marketers Improve Personalization, Reach and Marketing Effectiveness New report explores how connected identity helps drive stronger business outcomes Chicago, IL - The American Marketing Association (AMA) and Epsilon released new research today exploring a growing gap between how effective marketers believe they are, and how performance holds up as audience, personalization and measurement demands increase. The report, The Identity Gap: How marketers perceive success and where performance breaks down, examines how marketers are using identity resolution and highlights clear differences between organizations that do and do not use it. Based on a survey of 203 U.S. business-to-consumer marketers, the research outlines key considerations for strengthening the data and technology foundations needed to support long-term marketing performance. Key findings from the report include: 53% of marketers rate the overall effectiveness of their marketing as very or extremely effective. 64% of marketers using identity resolution say they are very or extremely effective at reaching individual prospects, compared to 31% of marketers not using identity resolution. 68% of marketers using identity resolution say they can very or extremely effectively deliver personalized campaigns, compared to 39% of marketers not using identity resolution. "The findings in this study reinforce a growing reality across the industry: marketers cannot deliver consistent personalization, measurement or audience reach without a strong identity foundation," said Rachel Cascisa, VP, Platform Adoption, Epsilon. "Many organizations believe they are operating effectively today, but fragmented data and disconnected systems continue to limit their ability to maintain a consistent understanding of consumers across channels. As expectations around accountability and customer experience continue to rise, marketers need more unified, persistent and actionable customer views to drive stronger business outcomes." Identity resolution emerged as a key differentiator in the research. By connecting data across devices, channels and touchpoints, marketers can build a more complete and persistent view of consumers, helping improve audience reach, personalization and measurement across environments. Additional findings from the report show: Marketers using identity resolution report significantly greater confidence in audience reach, personalization and campaign effectiveness. Fragmented systems and disconnected data continue to limit marketers' ability to operationalize customer understanding at scale. Many organizations are seeing value from identity resolution, but adoption and deployment remain uneven across marketing environments. 41% of identity users say they are not using their identity resolution solution to its full potential. "Marketers are swimming in data, but it's not always easy to understand attribution or what's working when that data is fragmented across platforms. The goal of this new research is to help marketers understand how to better leverage their data to connect with customers across channels and measure effectiveness," said Bennie F. Johnson, CEO of the AMA. Want to learn more? Visit the Epsilon Insights page to view the research summary or download the full report. Methodology: The American Marketing Association, in partnership with Epsilon, conducted an online survey of 203 U.S. business-to-consumer marketers at organizations with more than 500 employees, all at manager level or above. The survey ran in April 2026. ### Contacts: Epsilon Paul Doyle, paul.doyle@epsilon.com American Marketing Association Amy Gwiazdowski, agwiazdowski@ama.org
Shell Shock Technologies' Sponsored Shooter John Vlieger Takes Home 1st in Carry Optics Division at 2026 Ohio State Buckeye Blast
Wed, Jun 10, 2026 10:47 EDT
Vlieger also took home Second Overall at the 2026 Ohio State Buckeye Blast, held June 4 - 7, 2026, in Marengo, Ohio. Shell Shock Technologies , LLC (SST), a leading innovator in the ammunition industry, is proud to announce its sponsored shooter, John Vlieger, finished 1 st in the Carry Optics Division, as well as Second Overall, out of 107 competitors at the 2026 Ohio State Buckeye Blast, Presented by D2 Customs. The match held June 4 - 7, 2026, at the Cardinal Shooting Center in Marengo, Ohio, featured 349 competitors across multiple divisions, with Vlieger completing 15 stages, totaling 252.30 seconds, and earning 1,463.1593 match points-96.74% of the available points. "I'm proud to have won the 2026 Ohio State Buckeye Blast Championship in Carry Optics using ammunition loaded with Shell Shock Technologies' NAS³™ cases ," commented Vlieger. "Throughout the match, my ammunition and equipment performed flawlessly. At chronograph, my ammunition produced an extreme spread of less than 3 feet per second, demonstrating the level of consistency that I've come to expect. Consistent ammunition is part of the foundation of practical shooting." Vlieger continued, "Shell Shock Technologies' cases continue to prove themselves as exceptionally reliable and consistent under match conditions. Their performance gives me confidence every time I step to the line, and I look forward to continuing to use NAS³ cases in competition at the upcoming 2026 Kentucky State Championship." SST NAS 3 cases are engineered for enhanced strength, corrosion resistance, and reduced weight compared to traditional brass casings. These benefits have made them a preferred choice among top-tier competitors like Vlieger, who demand peak performance from their gear. "John's performance at the 2026 Ohio State Buckeye Blast is a testament to both his skill as a competitor and the consistency our NAS 3 cases deliver match after match. We're proud to have John representing Shell Shock Technologies, and we look forward to seeing that same performance on display at his next match," said Peter Foss , Managing Partner and CEO of Shell Shock Technologies. Vlieger has fired over 200,000 rounds of ammunition with SST's NAS 3 cases since first becoming a sponsored shooter in 2017. His next match appearance for the 2026 season will be at the 2026 Bluegrass State Championship, hosted by the Blue Grass Sportsmen's League, in Wilmore, Kentucky, from June 19 - 21, 2026. About Shell Shock Technologies NAS 3 Cases: NAS 3 pistol cases are 50 percent lighter than brass cases, offer greater lubricity, and will not abrade, clog, foul, wear out, or damage breach and ejector mechanisms. The cases offer greater corrosion resistance, tensile strength (2x stronger), and elasticity than brass. NAS 3 cases will not split, chip, crack, or grow (stretch). The pistol cases are fully reloadable (using S3 Reload dies) and can be reloaded many more times than brass cases. NAS 3 cases can be picked up with a magnet. NAS 3 is "Best in Class" for maintaining consistent velocity between rounds. In an independent test performed by H.P. White Laboratory (a major munitions testing facility), rounds fired using NAS 3 cases achieved a velocity standard deviation of 0.093 FPS (124-grain FMJ bullet, 4.2 grains Titegroup powder, ten rounds, extreme variation 3fps). Keep up with Shell Tech's advanced ammunition on the website and social media platforms: Facebook , Instagram , X (formerly Twitter) , and YouTube .
Mandatory CPSC Standard Final Rule Update for US Toddler Beds
Wed, Jun 10, 2026 10:29 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 074.26, highlighting the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) publication of a direct final rule updating the federal safety standard for toddler beds. Published on May 14, 2026, 16 CFR part 1217 replaces the current incorporated standard for toddler beds, ASTM F1821-19 ε1, with ASTM F1821-26. The updated standard specifies the design, performance, testing and labeling requirements for toddler beds. The CPSC has stated that the update does not alter the fundamental requirements of the standard or the compliance methods used to assess the safety of toddler beds. However, it will impact stakeholders across the supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, private-label brands, product designers, test laboratories and compliance teams responsible for toddler beds placed on the US market will be impacted. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 074.26 provides additional information about the updated standard and links to official texts in the Federal Register and ASTM Reading Room. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 074.26 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 CPSC Direct Final Rule Updates Mandatory Standard for Toddler Beds SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Ramiro Mantilla Laboratory Supervisor, 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
US Full-Size Baby Cribs Standard Final Rule Issued
Wed, Jun 10, 2026 10:16 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 072.26, reporting on the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) direct final rule for 16 CFR 1219, revising the federal safety standard for full-size baby cribs. Changes made to the standard include the addition of new definitions, enhanced performance requirements and updated marking and labeling provisions based on ASTM F406 (Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Non-Full-Size Baby Cribs and Play Yards). The final rule was published on May 4, 2026, and updates the incorporated standard to ASTM F1169-25, replacing the previous version referenced in the regulation and introducing revised safety provisions applicable to manufacturers, distributors, importers and retailers of these products. Unless significant adverse comments are received by June 3, 2026, the updated mandatory safety standard will become effective on August 1, 2026. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 072.26 includes further information on 16 CFR 1219, including a link to a read-only version of the standard available in the ASTM Reading Room. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 072.26 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 CPSC Direct Final Rule Updates Mandatory Standard for Full Size Baby Cribs SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Ramiro Mantilla Laboratory Supervisor, 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
Alliance of Comprehensive Planners Rebrands and Announces 2026 ACP Annual Conference
Wed, Jun 10, 2026 10:07 EDT
Plus shares highlights and resources from 2025 annual conference The Alliance of Comprehensive Planners (ACP) , a community of tax-focused, fiduciary financial advisors who provide comprehensive wealth building strategies for their clients on a commission-free retainer basis, recently announced the upcoming 2026 ACP Annual Conference , which will take place September 15-17, 2026 in Tucson, Arizona. The 2026 ACP Annual Conference will be hosted at Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, a scenic desert resort nestled at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Tucson, Arizona. The conference offers a boutique, community‑driven experience focused on meaningful conversations, high‑quality education, and genuine relationship‑building. Attendees benefit from expert‑led sessions, peer‑to‑peer learning, and collaboration with professionals who share ACP's values and approach to comprehensive planning. "This year's conference will bring together education, connection, and community, with time to engage with colleagues in a true resort setting," said Wesley Stien, CFP®, MBA , Marketing Chair and past President of ACP. "We're building in opportunities to connect beyond the classroom and workplace, including pre‑conference activities and a welcome reception designed to bring members together from the start." The ACP Annual Conference attracts advisors from across the US who are leading successful, growing firms. Seventy percent of ACP members attend the event each year to learn about the latest developments in the field. They come to explore the newest products and processes and find the solutions they need to run their financial planning practices. ACP expects over 100 members to attend this year's conference - in addition to other advisors, partners, sponsors, vendors, and journalists - which will feature insightful keynote presentations, a plethora of breakout sessions, multiple preconference workshops, a robust exhibit hall, media opportunities, social events and receptions, networking, training, and more. In addition, ACP will present two awards to ACP members: The Bert Whitehead Visionary Award, created in honor of the founder of ACP, and the Stewart Farnell Award for Excellence in Mentoring. Keynote presentations at the 2026 ACP Annual Conference will feature Beth Pinsker, CFP® , financial planning columnist at MarketWatch and author of "My Mother's Money: A Guide to Financial Caregiving"; Rick Ferri, CFA , investment analyst and author of six books on index funds and ETFs; and Scott Cederburg, Ph.D. , professor of finance at the University of Arizona. REGISTRATION AND SPONSORSHIP INFO FOR 2026 ACP CONFERENCE Registration is now open to ACP members and non-member financial advisors. In addition, guest passes are available for certain events. Early bird pricing of $900 for ACP members and $1,100 for non-members is available through June 24 th , 2026. To register for the conference, please click here . To learn more about the hotel and reserve your room, please click here . Journalists interested in attending the conference, please email JonnySwift@ImpactCommunications.org . Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are also available for organizations looking to connect with firm owners and decision makers. These opportunities are designed to provide meaningful visibility, engagement, and connection with a national audience of comprehensive planning professionals. Companies that are interested in sponsoring this year's conference can click here for more information on sponsorship opportunities . ACP REBRANDS, LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE AND TRAINING PROGRAM At the beginning of 2026, ACP introduced a new brand, logo, and website to modernize the look of the organization and reflect recent changes to the ACP experience. The new website enables users to more easily find and access relevant historical information about ACP, member benefits , member testimonials , ACP advisors for consumers, financial education resources , media activity , ACP podcast episodes, and other resources for members, advisors, and consumers. In addition, in Summer 2026, ACP will be launching a new training program with new and improved materials, providing formal training for new financial planners as well as those transitioning from other practice models and professions. This formal training, called the ACP Success Program , provides new members with a foundation in the philosophy, strategies, and tools of the ACP System, helping them identify and overcome the hurdles they face in establishing a sustainable and profitable practice. The ACP System includes self-study training, virtual classrooms, ACP member concierge access, continuing education opportunities, live group instruction, ACP member mentoring, professional coaching, visiting advisor, two hours of compliance support, a new member compliance webinar, marketing support, career development webinars, and more. "We've trained a lot of advisors over the past 30 years," said Stien. "But for a long time, our training program was in binders. The world has changed a lot since then, and we decided that we wanted to catch up. Our training has been modernized and made more accessible to a wider audience." To learn more about the updates coming to the ACP Success Program, check out the February 2026 issue of Bob Veres' Inside Information . To learn more about joining the community of tax-focused, fiduciary financial planners that's committed to building thriving practices and helping members succeed, please click here . HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2025 ACP ANNUAL CONFERENCE The 2025 ACP Annual Conference took place in Salt Lake City, Utah in October 2025 and featured over 100 ACP members and other attendees. There were a variety of CE-approved educational breakout sessions covering topics including social security, tax strategies, asset protection and wealth transfer, client conversations, special needs planning, compliance, investment principles, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and more - plus an insightful keynote presentation from Dr. Craig Israelsen, developer of the 7Twelve Portfolio and executive in residence in the personal financial planning program at Utah Valley University. In addition, the ACP conferred two annual awards: the Bert Whitehead Visionary Award and the Stewart Farnell Award for Excellence in Mentoring. The Bert Whitehead Visionary Award, which was created in honor of the founder of ACP and bears his name, serves to recognize an advisor who exemplifies the ACP methodology and successfully utilizes its principles, demonstrates vision and innovation in the financial planning field, and has made significant contributions to the growth and well-being of ACP as an organization. Kelly Adams, CFP®, EA , Founder of Harbor Light Planning in Michigan, was the recipient of this prestigious award at the 2025 conference. The Stewart Farnell Award for Excellence in Mentoring is awarded on an annual basis to an ACP member who exemplifies the kind of coaching, mentoring, and support of fellow ACP members for which Stewart Farnell was known. Jim Davis, CFP®, EA , Senior Advisor and Partner at Partnership Financial in Columbus, Ohio, received this honor at the 2025 conference. ABOUT THE ALLIANCE OF COMPREHENSIVE PLANNERS (ACP) The Alliance of Comprehensive Planners (ACP) is a national community of fiduciary, tax-focused financial advisors who provide comprehensive planning strategies for their clients on a commission-free retainer basis. As fee-only fiduciaries, ACP members are required to maintain the CFP ® or CPA/PFS (or equivalent) designation and complete ACP's rigorous training program. ACP members adhere to a strict code of ethics and operate under a retainer model, ensuring that client interests are always the top priority. Through collaboration and shared resources, ACP empowers advisors to build successful, client-centered practices. To learn more about this fiduciary network or to find a certified ACP member, visit www.ACPlanners.org .
This is Why Businesses Are Starting to Replace Equipment Before Failure, Not After
Wed, Jun 10, 2026 06:29 EDT
Pallet Truck Shop, the UK's largest supplier of pallet and sack trucks, says a growing number of businesses are moving towards preventative replacement strategies for manual handling equipment, as the cost of downtime begins to outweigh the cost of planned upgrades. Traditionally, pallet trucks and other handling equipment have often been used until failure, with replacements only ordered once breakdowns occur. However, Pallet Truck Shop reports that this reactive approach is becoming less viable in modern warehouse environments - where even short periods of disruption can have a significant financial and operational impact. With tighter delivery schedules, increased order volumes and higher customer expectations, downtime is now a critical risk rather than an inconvenience. A single equipment failure can delay picking operations, slow dispatch processes and create bottlenecks across entire warehouse zones. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Truck Shop, said the economics of equipment replacement are changing. "We're seeing a clear shift in mindset," he explained. "Businesses are increasingly recognising that the cost of downtime is often far greater than the cost of replacing a pallet truck before it fails. When equipment breaks during peak activity, the disruption can ripple across the whole operation." Chesworth added that many failures predictable. "In most cases, equipment shows signs of wear long before it actually breaks," he said. "Wheels become harder to manoeuvre, hydraulics lose smoothness, and general performance declines. The challenge is that teams often continue using equipment until it becomes a problem, rather than replacing it while it is still functional but clearly deteriorating." Preventative replacement strategies are particularly relevant in high-throughput environments, where equipment is in near-constant use. In these settings, the risk of operational disruption increases significantly as assets age, even if they are still technically operational. Pallet Truck Shop says forward-looking operators are now treating manual handling equipment as a managed asset rather than a consumable tool, building replacement cycles into broader maintenance and operational planning. This approach helps reduce unexpected failures, improve workflow consistency and maintain safer working conditions. "Downtime affects everything downstream," Chesworth continued. "When a pallet truck , stacker or table trucks fails it can delay orders, impact staffing efficiency and create congestion elsewhere in the warehouse." To find out more about Pallet Truck Shop, visit: www.pallettruckshop.co.uk .
Wokingham Mum and Early Years Teacher Takes Over Baby Sensory Classes
Wed, Jun 10, 2026 05:59 EDT
Chrissy Johnson isn't new to Early Years: she has spent around 15 years working in the sector, across nurseries and school settings, supporting children in their earliest stages of development. Of course, being a mum of three herself added to the experience - so when the chances presented itself to run Baby Sensory in Wokingham, Chrissy grabbed it with both hands. Baby Sensory classes are designed for babies from birth to 13 months. Sessions bring together music, movement, light, textures and sensory-based play - all structured around how babies naturally learn and develop in their first year. This helps the children hit the ground running and takes a huge load off the parents' shoulders. "It's very easy as a parent to feel like you're being told lots of things but not really understanding what any of it means in practice," she said. "It can be overwhelming - and with three children myself, I would know something about that! "What I like about Baby Sensory is that everything is broken down in a really simple way. You're not just doing an activity; you're being shown why it matters." The move into running the classes as something that developed over time rather than a sudden decision. "I've worked in Early Years for a long time, so the developmental side is very familiar to me," she said. "But I also really value the parent side of it now. Those early months can feel quite isolating, and having somewhere to go each week makes a real difference." Chrissy completed her Baby Sensory training and has now stepped into running the Wokingham sessions with support from the wider WOW Group network and experienced class leaders across the programme. She says that support has been important in settling into the role. "There's always someone to ask," she said. "That makes it feel much more manageable when you're taking something on that already means a lot to local families. We are all working together with one goal: to give as many babies as possible the best start in life they can possibly get. "Wokingham is extremely lucky to have its very own Baby Sensory Hub on Molly Millars Lane. It is a dedicated clean, bright space for babies and their carers to come to and experience the magic of baby sensory for themselves!" Baby Sensory Wokingham will continue to run weekly classes for families across the area, supporting early development through structured sensory play and providing a safe space for parents and babies to spend time together. For more information, please visit www.babysensory.com/wokingham .
National Survey Reveals Maternal Health Care Failures Women of Color Hit Hardest
Tue, Jun 09, 2026 18:11 EDT
Survey of 3,857 new mothers is the most comprehensive in a decade Read the full report here Today, the National Partnership for Women & Families, in partnership with MomsRising and the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, released the fourth national Listening to Mothers survey, the most comprehensive of its kind in a decade. Based on responses from 3,857 mothers of infants and toddlers across the country, the report places the experiences of pregnant people and new mothers at the center of the maternal health conversation and policy debate. The survey uncovered troubling patterns affecting mothers across the country. Far too many women reported not feeling heard, being treated disrespectfully and being ignored or neglected, with Black mothers, American Indian/Alaska Native mothers, and other women of color facing greater barriers and reporting worse outcomes in many areas. Here are some of the toplines from the survey: Lack of Respectful Care: Too many mothers feel unheard. Over 40% of Listening to Mothers' respondents told us that providers failed to respond in a timely manner to requests for help, and 17% said they had been ignored or neglected. "I did not feel heard or valued. I felt dismissed." "A lot of things were done without my permission or without me even being informed." Untreated Mental Health Conditions: Mental health treatment is out of reach for many. The survey identified high rates of anxiety and depression before, during, and following pregnancy. Rates were highest among American Indian/Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander mothers and Black mothers. More than half of these women received no treatment - counseling or medication, for reasons including cost and a shortage of available maternal mental health providers. "I was so depressed I was almost catatonic. I told my doctors and baby's doctor but received no help." "I wish there were more support for me and the depression I felt early on after delivery. I felt like my feelings and concerns were ignored and felt very alone." Midwives and Doulas Remain Out of Reach: Women aren't getting high-quality care they want and need. Only 5% of women had a birth without at least one major medical intervention. Just over half of births were scheduled in advance, either a scheduled cesarean birth or by inducing labor. When care providers recommended an induction, the only reason given half of the time was that they were nearing their due date. Midwives who stood out as providing quality care were used by only a small percentage of respondents (8%), and the great majority had no doula support. "Having a midwife was so amazing. I truly felt heard and supported from start to finish!" "My doula was like a birth coach, a therapist, and a friend all rolled into one." Racial Inequity Persists. Women of color, those covered by Medicaid, young mothers, and women with disabilities reported facing greater barriers and worse outcomes and experiences across many measures. "As an African-American woman, it is scary knowing the statistics on complications when delivering in hospitals." "I feel like I was treated differently and frowned upon by some, even avoided by some nurses due to my preference to use a prayer rug and pray five times daily." The findings come as harmful policy decisions are exacerbating maternal health disparities. Medicaid cuts are accelerating closures of hospitals and labor and delivery units, while restrictions on reproductive health care are interfering with emergency treatment and deepening workforce shortages. "Women are struggling at every stage of their birthing journeys - facing disrespect, being denied care and having their concerns dismissed," said Jocelyn Frye, president of the National Partnership for Women & Families . "For Black women and other women of color, it's even worse. Because we believe the people closest to the problem are often closest to the solution, we spent three years surveying several thousand mothers - and we're fully committed to spending the years ahead fighting for the changes moms told us they want and need." "We know what works - and we have a blueprint for implementation," said Dr. Nima Sheth, vice president for health justice at the National Partnership for Women & Families . "We have both the evidence and the expertise to drive the change needed at every level of our maternal health care system. What we need is the political will." "At BMMA, we work to center the knowledge, lived experiences, and solutions of Black women and birthing people to meaningfully address and improve maternal health," said Danielle Rivers, research associate, Black Mamas Matter Alliance, Inc. "The Listening to Mothers national survey is critical because it elevates the experiences of those closest to the maternal health crisis - pregnant women and birthing people. When we elevate the voices and experiences of the most marginalized, including Black women, everyone benefits." "We cannot solve our country's shameful maternal health crisis without centering the voices and lived experiences of mothers, especially Black and Indigenous mothers who suffer the worst outcomes. Our country urgently needs the insights from the Listening to Mothers survey to more effectively address this public health emergency," said Tina Sherman, MomsRising National Director for Maternal Justice . "MomsRising is dedicated to bringing the real-world experiences of our nation's mothers straight to policymakers, and this data is critical to the fight to make pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period safe, respectful, and equitable for all." Click here to view this on our website. # # #
Shell Shock Technologies and CBC Global Ammunition to Commemorate Strategic Partnership at Eurosatory 2026
Tue, Jun 09, 2026 11:37 EDT
The brands will formally commemorate the recently executed MOU during the Eurosatory exhibition in Paris on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 2:00 pm at the CBC Booth (Hall 5A / Booth J391). Shell Shock Technologies , LLC (SST), a leading innovator in the ammunition industry, and CBC Global Ammunition , one of the world's largest ammunition manufacturers, will formally commemorate the recently executed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the 2026 Eurosatory exhibition in Paris, France. The ceremonial signing will take place on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 2:00 pm at the CBC booth (Hall 5A / Booth J391) and marks the beginning of a collaboration focused on the industrialization and commercialization of SST's proprietary NAS 3 ™ lightweight ammunition technology. The collaboration is intended to support future military, law enforcement, and commercial market opportunities worldwide. The collaboration encompasses multiple military and commercial calibers, including 5.56x45, 7.62x51, .277 Fury (6.8x51), .338 Lapua Magnum, .50 BMG, and 9mm. Under the framework of the MOU, CBC is expected to serve as a licensed manufacturing and commercialization partner, supporting future large-scale production and global market development initiatives. SST's NAS 3 technology combines advanced metallurgy and proprietary manufacturing processes to create lightweight, high-pressure-capable ammunition systems designed to improve velocity, greater case capacity, reduced weight, and enhanced overall ballistic performance compared to traditional brass-cased ammunition. The technology also has applications across military, law enforcement, and commercial markets and is particularly well suited for next-generation high-performance ammunition programs. As part of the collaboration, CBC is expected to support industrialization efforts and future manufacturing scale-up initiatives, including integration into CBC's expanding U.S. manufacturing footprint. CBC recently announced plans for a major ammunition manufacturing facility in northeast Oklahoma, further strengthening its long-term commitment to the U.S. defense and commercial ammunition markets. "Eurosatory brings together the best in global defense and security, and we are proud to be here with CBC to mark the beginning of this collaboration," said Peter Foss , Managing Partner and CEO of Shell Shock Technologies. "NAS 3 was developed to expand the performance limits of modern ammunition, and CBC's global manufacturing capabilities provide an exceptional platform to accelerate the industrialization and commercialization of the technology." Eurosatory 2026 will be held June 15 - 19, 2026, at the Paris Nord Villepinte Exhibition Center and is widely recognized as one of the world's premier defense and security exhibitions. Keep up with Shell Tech's advanced ammunition on the website and social media platforms: Facebook , Instagram , X (formerly Twitter) , and YouTube .
Blackbrook Business Park in Somerset taking on a healthy glow
Tue, Jun 09, 2026 10:51 EDT
Changes and growth in the healthcare sector globally are also being seen in Taunton, says South West developer Summerfield , reporting a significant shift in the occupier profile at Blackbrook Business Park. Health insurer WPA was one of the first occupiers on Blackbrook at Junction 25 of the M5, in the early 1990s. At the time, the business park was primarily home to organisations in the professional services, finance and hospitality sectors. More recently, Blackbrook has evolved into an important hub for medical and healthcare occupiers. Five years ago, Taunton Diagnostic Centre, the UK's first modern community diagnostic centre on an NHS and independent partnership model opened in Zenith House on the Park. In 2023 Somerset NHS Foundation Trust took on the lease, strengthening the healthcare presence at Blackbrook. Healthcare and medical occupiers have repurposed office accommodation over recent years, expanding their clinical and patient services. They include Somerset Care, Meddcare Somerset, Lakeside Dental, the Ophthalmology Diagnostic Centre, About Health, HUC and nearby SpaMedica. Responding to demand, Summerfield has been quick to adapt, offering flexible space within existing offices while also making available the final vacant development plot suitable for a variety of uses and on a sale or lease basis. Ben Trickey, Commercial Director at Summerfield Commercial, said: "Blackbrook Park has changed over the years, with the nature of occupiers shifting away from purely office occupiers to more in the healthcare and medical sectors. Drawn by the proximity of Blackbrook to the Taunton junction of the M5, occupiers find it readily accessible to the wider South West region." Summerfield and their joint agents, Andrew Maynard of Alder King and David Kerr of Cushman & Wakefield are currently working on enquiries for new buildings on Blackbrook Business Park, including a new development on part of the final plot with interest from healthcare operators.
Banff Pilot Showcases Rewards-Based Approach to Responsible Visitor Behaviour
Tue, Jun 09, 2026 09:52 EDT
Banff & Lake Louise Tourism is launching a first-of-its-kind pilot activation in Canada to test how rewarding responsible travel behaviours can help reduce congestion and emissions in Banff National Park. Media are invited to attend a live, on-the-ground activation demonstrating how positive visitor behaviours can be recognized in real time, offering a visual, human-centered story tied to responsible visitation in Banff. WHAT: A live pilot pop-up activation demonstrating a new rewards-based approach to encouraging responsible visitor behaviour, with select participants receiving free admission to the Whyte Museum as part of the Park Mode responsible visitation initiative. WHEN: Saturday, June 13, 2026 09:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. WHERE: Banff Train Station (parking area next to the traffic circle) Banff, Alberta WHO: Banff & Lake Louise Tourism Supported by partners including the Whyte Museum and Mt. Norquay Town of Banff including Mayor Corrie DiManno WHY IT MATTERS: A timely response to growing tourism pressure in Banff, including congestion and parking challenges A positive, solutions-focused story encouraging responsible travel instead of restricting behaviour A pilot with potential to scale, positioning Banff as a testing ground for innovative tourism solutions A strong visual and interview opportunity, with real visitors being rewarded and sharing their reactions on-site MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES: Visuals of carpool groups being rewarded on arrival On-site interviews with participating visitors Interviews with Banff & Lake Louise Tourism spokespeople Interview with Mayor of Banff, Corrie DiManno B-roll of activity at Banff's largest parking hub ### ABOUT BANFF AND LAKE LOUISE banfflakelouise.com | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Banff and Lake Louise offer incredible experiences that reconnect people to the natural world. Situated in the stunning Canadian Rocky Mountains in Banff National Park, within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, accessible year-round adventure and wellness are cultivated every day of the year by visitors from across the globe. Home to three ski resorts, countless glacier-fed lakes, two vibrant townsites, and authentic Canadian culture and cuisine, this place is unforgettable.
Three POP Chemicals Prohibited in South Korea
Tue, Jun 09, 2026 09:23 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 077.26, focusing on the prohibition of three persistent organic pollutant (POP) chemicals in South Korea. Notification No 2026-107 was issued by the country's Minister of Climate, Energy and Environment (MCEE) in April 2026. It partially amended the Regulations on Types of POPs and Specific Exemptions. The MCEE is authorized to designate substances subject to prohibition or restriction and to establish specific exemptions for their manufacture, import, export and use. POP chemicals, which persist and accumulate in living organisms, can cause cancer, immune system damage and reproductive disorders, and are increasingly subject to regulatory control under the Stockholm Convention. Notification No 2026-107 introduces prohibitions and restrictions on three POP chemicals (with certain exemptions) in South Korea, in alignment with Annex A of the Stockholm Convention: Methoxychlor Dechlorane Plus (DP) UV-328 Importers, exporters, manufacturers and users of these chemicals, as well as producers and suppliers of products containing or contaminated by them, are affected by the measures. Notification No 2026-107 came into effect on April 29, 2026, although implementation of controls for the listed substances will follow the entry into force of Annex A in South Korea. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 077.26 includes two useful tables that outline the requirements for the three POP chemicals and their uses, as set out in the Notification. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 077.26 for more details. SGS consumer product services SGS provides news about the development of regulations affecting consumer products as a complimentary service. With an unrivaled global network of laboratories, they offer physical/mechanical testing, analytical testing and consultancy work for technical and non-technical parameters applicable to a comprehensive range of consumer products. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's consumer product services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full South Korea Regulates Three POP Chemicals SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 SeungJae Lee Section Chief, Connectivity and Products Tel: +82 (0)31 460 8028 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Launch of neurohub platform for businesses will help create more neurodiversity-friendly workplaces
Tue, Jun 09, 2026 07:38 EDT
neurohub by neurobox simplifies delivery of neuroinclusion and workplace adjustments for neurodivergent employees - helping organisations attract, retain and empower diverse talent Companies looking to create more inclusive, neurodiversity-informed workplaces can now access a free digital platform that will help them better support employees with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia and other neurodifferent profiles. Cambridge-based neurobox has launched neurohub for business - a comprehensive online tool that makes it easier for HR teams and Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I) Managers to implement and manage employee support; organise workplace needs assessments; and measure the impact of adjustments on staff and operational performance. With an estimated one in five people thought to be neurodivergent, organisations are increasingly recognising neuroinclusion as both a workplace responsibility and a strategic business opportunity. However, building neuroinclusive workplaces has traditionally been complex, fragmented, and difficult to sustain. Many businesses lack the tools, training and centralised support needed to embed meaningful neuroinclusion and support neurodivergent employees consistently. neurohub by neurobox changes that. Accessible by HR and ED&I Managers and employees, the platform uses neurobox's neuroNavigation methodology to help companies embed inclusivity at scale, drive measurable change and save valuable time by reducing the manual management of staff support initiatives. Whether an organisation is taking first steps towards building a neuroinclusive workplace or looking to scale and strengthen an established strategy, neurohub provides the tools, insights and support to move forward with confidence by: Providing access to end-to-end services to help identify employee needs Creating one location where the assistance on offer to employees can be centralised Acting as a portal for workplace needs assessment requests Helping to drive forward personalised strategies for team members Tracking how adjustments are working Acting as a gateway to services to increase wider employee awareness of neurodiversity Delivering smart workflows to simplify admin, compliance and reporting tasks. For neurodifferent employees, the benefits of using neurohub are equally powerful. neurohub: Checks in with employees before, during and after adjustments are implemented Provides training and coaching session reminders Seeks feedback to help define future support pathways. Staff can also access additional evidence-based neurodiversity resources. Mark Woodward, Head of Assessments & Innovation at neurobox said "An estimated 15-20% of the global population is neurodifferent - that's hundreds of millions of people and a significant part of today's workforce. Yet despite this, many neurodifferent professionals still face barriers to getting into work, progressing, and feeling fully included. Often, organisations aren't resistant, they just don't know where to start, so support tends to be reactive rather than proactive. That means a huge amount of potential is being missed. Neuroinclusion is no longer a 'nice to have' - it's a business and strategic necessity." Concluding, Jason De Turris, COO at neurobox, said: "Every organisation already employs neurodifferent people, whether they realise it or not. Those that take a thoughtful, proactive approach are much more likely to truly benefit from the strengths neurodifferent employees bring. The launch of neurohub for business gives HR and People Leaders a practical, scalable way to build workplaces where neurodivergent employees can prosper - while improving business culture, engagement and performance for everyone." neurohub for business will be launched at the CIPD Festival of Work at London Excel on Wednesday 10 June. Visit the team at Stand I50. Or, for more information about neurohub, and to request a demo go to: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0vK_fK0 or email: commercial@neurobox.co.uk neurobox is a neuroNavigation partner for companies and their employees. Dedicated to fostering inclusive and accessible workplaces for neurodivergent and disabled individuals, the business originally built neurohub to help neurodifferent individuals manage workplace adjustments - including those accessing support through schemes such as Access to Work. neurobox is now expanding neurohub and the roll out of its neuroNavigation methodology to help organisations embed neuroinclusion at scale. (ends)
Why Multi-Supplier Supply Chains Are Increasing Equipment Wear Rates
Tue, Jun 09, 2026 06:13 EDT
As supply chains become increasingly fragmented, warehouses across the UK are beginning to see a less obvious but growing operational issue: higher wear rates on materials handling equipment. The move towards multi-supplier sourcing has brought flexibility and resilience to procurement strategies, but it has also introduced greater variation in pallet quality, load consistency and packaging standards. These variations are now having a measurable impact on how equipment performs over time. Where warehouses once dealt with relatively consistent inbound goods from a smaller number of suppliers, many now manage stock arriving from multiple sources, often with differing pallet conditions and load structures. This inconsistency affects how smoothly goods can be moved, lifted and positioned within the warehouse. One of the key challenges is uneven load distribution. Slight differences in pallet build quality or weight balance can increase resistance during movement, placing additional strain on wheels, hydraulics and steering mechanisms. Over time, this can accelerate wear rates compared with more uniform inbound flows. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks, said the change is becoming increasingly noticeable on the warehouse floor. "Multi-supplier sourcing has brought clear benefits in terms of flexibility and supply security," he explained. "But what many operators are now seeing is that equipment is having to work harder because it is dealing with more variation than before." He added that this variation does not just affect equipment longevity, but also day-to-day efficiency. "When loads behave differently depending on where they come from, operators naturally have to adjust their handling approach more often," he said. "That can slow movement slightly and increase the physical effort involved." In many warehouses, this is leading to a steady increase in maintenance requirements. Equipment that might previously have required servicing at predictable intervals is now experiencing more variable wear patterns, depending on the mix of inbound goods being handled at any given time. The impact is particularly evident in high-throughput environments, where pallet trucks , stacker trucks and lift tables are in near-constant use. Even small increases in resistance or handling difficulty can compound across a full shift, affecting both productivity and operator fatigue. For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .
From Baby Sensory Parent to Class Leader: Stamford Mum Takes Over the Classes She Once Attended
Tue, Jun 09, 2026 05:41 EDT
A year ago, Charlotte Deedigan was sitting on the floor at Baby Sensory with her daughter on her lap. Now she is the one leading the classes. The Stamford mum, who has over a decade of experience in Early Years education, has taken over Baby Sensory Stamford after spotting an opportunity she simply could not ignore. Charlotte first attended the classes while on maternity leave with her youngest child. At the time, she was planning her future after spending almost a decade working in Early Years education. Like many new parents, she was looking for activities to do with her baby. What she found was something she connected with on a professional level as well. Baby Sensory, which is part of the WOW World Group, is designed for babies from birth to 13 months - using light, sound, textures, movement and simple sensory play to support early development. Charlotte said, "I was fascinated by the reasons behind everything we were doing. As someone who had worked in Early Years for years, I could see the developmental side straight away. But I was also there as a mum, and I saw how much my baby got from it too. "I honestly used to say that I would love to do that job one day. I never really expected the opportunity would actually come along!" When the Stamford franchise became available, Charlotte decided to take the leap. She left her previous role and completed the training needed to become a Baby Sensory class leader. Now preparing for her first classes, she is keen to keep the friendly atmosphere that attracted her in the first place. "There are plenty of parents who walk into a baby class not knowing anybody," she said. "I know what that feels like because I was one of them. You can be surrounded by people and still feel quite isolated when you have a young baby." Charlotte also hopes to work alongside other local businesses and family-focused organisations in the area over time. However, the real appeal of Baby Sensory has never been the business side of it. "The thing I kept coming back to was the difference it made for families," she said. "You see babies grow in confidence, you see parents making friends, and you see people looking forward to coming back each week. Being part of that is really special." Charlotte will start running classes next on Tuesday 9 June. The classes will run three days a week - at Essendine Village Hall on Tuesdays, at Exton Village Hall on Wednesdays, and at Easton On The Hill Village Hall on Fridays. For more information, visit https://www.babysensory.com/corby .
SGS hosts expert webinar on digital sensory analysis using e-nose and e-tongue
Tue, Jun 09, 2026 04:43 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is pleased to host a webinar titled 'Digital sensory analysis using e-nose and e-tongue for aroma and taste evaluation' on June 25, 2026. Aroma, flavor and taste are now critical drivers of success alongside safety and compliance across many industries. While traditional sensory panels remain valuable, results can be subjective and influenced by factors such as panelist fatigue, environmental conditions and variability in training. In this webinar, SGS expert Aswathy V Krishnan introduces advanced digital sensory technologies that deliver faster, objective and repeatable analysis. She will explain how e-nose and e-tongue solutions enable reliable evaluation of sensory attributes to support product development, quality control and consistency. Attendees will insight into key applications across industries, supported by practical, real-world examples. The session will highlight how data-driven sensory analysis can strengthen process control, detect defects and support innovation, helping organizations maintain a competitive edge in demanding markets. This webinar will be of interest to R&D, quality, sensory and technical professionals across food, beverage, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries seeking advanced, data-driven methods to evaluate flavor, aroma and consistency and drive quality and innovation. Stakeholders are encouraged to register now to secure their place at this informative session.
Acuity Trading Hires Tegan Johnson as Sales Rep to Drive AI Market Intelligence Growth
Tue, Jun 09, 2026 03:00 EDT
Acuity Trading, the AI-driven market intelligence company built for brokers, prop firms and trading platforms, has appointed Tegan Johnson as Sales Development Representative (SDR), based in the company's London office. The appointment comes as Acuity continues to expand its commercial team and strengthen its support for firms seeking embedded market intelligence, trade signals, event intelligence and AI-powered market context. It also follows a period of product growth for the business, including the strategic investment in MarketReader which brings real-time market-move attribution into Acuity's intelligence workflow. This helps professional users understand not only what is moving, but why it is moving and helps to identify factors that may influence future market developments. Tegan joins Acuity from Connectd, a SaaS subscription platform supporting executives, advisors and high-growth startups. In her role, she managed high-volume consultative sales cycles targeting C-suite executives and worked closely with senior professionals building fractional, advisory and independent director careers. Prior to Connectd, Tegan progressed quickly from Sales Development Representative to Senior Business Development Representative at The Knowledge Academy, where she generated and qualified new business opportunities across B2B and B2C markets. She also spent three years at Maui Jim, moving through customer service, sales support and B2B account management roles, building strong experience in client relationships, sales operations and account support. At Acuity, Tegan will support the commercial team across lead generation, CRM management, event activity, sales enablement and client onboarding coordination. Her role has been structured as an intensive 12-18 month apprenticeship, designed to help her master Acuity's product suite, client base and industry before moving into a full-cycle sales role. Acuity works with brokers, prop firms and trading platforms to deliver market intelligence directly into trader-facing environments. Its modular, white-labelled tools help firms explain not just what markets are doing, but why they are moving and what may come next, supporting trader engagement, market understanding and differentiated client experiences. Seamus Keaveney, VP Sales, Acuity Trading; "Sales development at Acuity is not simply about prospecting. It is about understanding a complex industry, learning what brokers need, and becoming fluent in the products that help their clients make sense of fast-moving markets. Tegan brings the right mix of commercial energy, attention to detail and relationship-building ability. Her experience across SaaS, sales development and account management gives her a strong foundation, and her HubSpot knowledge will be a real asset as we continue to scale our commercial operations. "This is an exciting time to join the business. With our continued investment in AI-driven market intelligence, and growing demand from brokers and platforms for richer in-platform experiences, we are building a commercial team that can support the next stage of Acuity's growth. We are delighted to welcome Tegan to the Acuity family." Tegan Johnson, SDR, Acuity; "I'm really excited to be joining Acuity at such an important stage of growth. The company sits at the intersection of fintech, AI and market intelligence, and I'm looking forward to learning the products, understanding the industry in depth and supporting the commercial team as we build new relationships with brokers, prop firms and trading platforms. The apprenticeship structure was a big part of what attracted me to the role. It gives me the opportunity to learn properly, contribute from day one and develop towards a full-cycle sales position within a business that is clearly ambitious about where it is going." Tegan will work from Acuity's London office as part of the company's growing commercial team. ENDS Notes to editors: Disclaimer: This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice or a recommendation to trade. Trading involves risks, and individuals should conduct thorough research and seek professional guidance before making any trading decisions. Any market intelligence, analytics, signals or AI-generated content referenced in this announcement are provided for informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute investment research, investment advice, a recommendation, or an offer to buy or sell any financial instrument. Users should not rely solely upon such information when making trading or investment decisions. Material posted here is solely for information purposes and reliance on this may lead to losses. Past performances are not a reliable indicator of future results. Please read our full disclaimer. About Acuity Acuity Trading, an Acuity Analytics company, brings together the strengths of PIA First and Signal Centre to deliver a broad suite of market intelligence, analytics and trader engagement tools for brokers, platforms and institutional partners worldwide. Since pioneering visual market insight and sentiment tools in 2013, Acuity Trading has continued to expand its capabilities through advanced analytics, alternative data, AI-driven insight and trading technology. By combining research expertise with scalable technology, Acuity supports brokers and trading platforms in delivering structured market context within their existing environments. Acuity's team of academics, scientists, market analysts and technology specialists is dedicated to developing high-impact data products designed to support traders. Solutions are available through flexible delivery options including APIs, MT4/MT5, plug-and-play widgets and third-party automation services. For further information or to request a demo, please visit www.acuitytrading.com or contact: Meredyth Grant Email:meredyth.grant@acuitytrading.com Tel: +44 (0) 7496 725286 Follow Acuity Trading on social: Twitter: @acuitytrading LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/acuity-trading Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/acuitytradingltd/
SaaS Jobs Apocalypse Overblown, Shows Adaca Report
Mon, Jun 08, 2026 20:02 EDT
Record number of software developers working in Australia Adaca , one of Australia's top technology services companies, with customers including ANZ, Qantas and the UN, has published a new report " Devs in record demand ". The report shows that despite AI layoff fears, there are now more software developers working in Australia than ever before according to the latest ABS labour force data 2026. Software development is increasingly dependent on skilled workers born overseas, but it is also one of the fastest growing occupations since 2015, and has grown, not shrunk, since the emergence of AI. Key findings from the report include: There are now 216,000 software and applications programmers working in Australia This number is up from 189k in 2025, and has tripled (+217%) since 2006 Software developer is the 24 th fastest growing occupation in Australia since 2015, out of 702 occupations tracked by the ABS There are between 19,000 and 25,000 people working in software development in Australia with no form of higher education "For all the doom and gloom surrounding AI layoffs, there is incredible cause for optimism," said Adaca founder, Lambros Photios. "We are seeing devs displaced, not replaced. They are leaving big tech and finding work anywhere and everywhere else. When mid-market companies realise what they can achieve by hiring their first AI-powered dev team, every company will have one. We are in the golden age for Australian developers." The jobs data also shows a major homegrown skills gap and gender imbalance in the software development sector. Only one in five devs is female, and almost two thirds of developers (62%) were born outside Australia, up from 50% in 2006. "The high ratio of developers born overseas suggests that the Australian software development sector is thriving through migration, not education," continued Photios. "Tech and software skills are not well taught here compared to other countries. A lot of businesses sponsor skilled overseas workers, or offshore their software development needs abroad because it's too hard to find the right skills. The gender divide is disappointing. Software development in Australia has always been a boy's club, and not much has changed in 20 years. But I'm hopeful. It will be interesting to see if AI reduces barriers to entry and fundamentally changes the workforce demographic."
Strengthening the UK's Democratic Information Environment in an Age of Uncertainty - Full Fact
Mon, Jun 08, 2026 19:01 EDT
The UK's information environment is becoming harder to trust, more challenging to navigate and all too easy to manipulate, that's one of the conclusions of this year's Full Fact report, funded by the Nuffield Foundation. As voters in Makerfield prepare to cast their votes in a high-stakes by-election, it's clear that many people are struggling to decipher fact from fiction, and to have confidence in the information they're being served. A nationally representative poll, commissioned by Full Fact and carried out by YouGov at the end of March 2026, found that - Only 3% of people find it very easy to tell whether a video online is genuine or AI-generated, 66% of people think the government is doing too little to address AI-generated misinformation and 48% of people say political misinformation has affected their trust in political institutions, including government and Parliament. Increasingly, responsibility for electoral integrity, online safety, platform accountability and crisis communication is fragmented across multiple institutions with overlapping or unclear mandates. There is no clear system for resolving uncertainty during high-pressure moments, and no single institution is responsible for ensuring that reliable public interest information remains visible and trusted when it matters most. Full Fact's seventh annual Report, Strengthening the UK's Democratic Information Environment, argues that the UK needs to treat the information environment as critical democratic infrastructure . This means - Clearer institutional coordination, Ensuring laws and regulation are fit for purpose Stronger accountability for online platforms and AI systems, Better visibility for high-quality public interest information, And long-term investment in media literacy and public resilience. It also requires recognising that the design of platforms and AI systems is not neutral. Decisions about ranking, recommendation, moderation and visibility shape public understanding at an enormous scale, and those decisions carry democratic consequences. As Chris Morris , Chief Executive of Full Fact, says: "The task now is to build institutions and safeguards capable of functioning in a faster, more fragmented and more automated public sphere. Other democracies facing similar pressures are beginning to move toward more coordinated approaches built around transparency, preparedness and accountability. The UK risks falling behind if it continues to respond in a piecemeal and reactive way. The decisions taken now will shape whether future elections are defined by confusion and mistrust, or by clarity, confidence and democratic resilience. Building a better information environment is no longer an abstract ambition. It is a democratic necessity." Full Fact's 2026 report includes a series of recommendations on: securing the information ecosystem, strengthening public resilience, modernising laws and institutions and increasing commercial transparency and accountability. The report also contains contributions from the filmmaker, author and advocate for online safety, Baroness Kidron, the statistician and Chairman of the Electoral Commission, John Pullinger, and Associate Director of Technology, Threats and Opportunities at Witness, Mahsa Alimardani. The entire Full Fact 2026 Report can be read here . ENDS If you would like to arrange an interview with a Full Fact spokesperson please contact us on 07931350523 or at press@fullfact.org . Notes to editors: 1. About Full Fact: Full Fact is an independent UK charity. Its team of fact checkers and campaigners work to build a better information environment to restore trust: Fullfact.org 2. Full Fact scrutinises all sides in any political debate impartially, and holds everyone in public office to high standards. Last year, we published 839 fact checks and other articles including pledge pages, liveblogs and explainers. We also secured 74 corrections from newspapers, broadcasters and politicians. 3. All figures in the nationally representative poll unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2,175 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 29th - 30th March 2026. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all UK adults (aged 18+). 4. The Nuffield Foundation is an independent charitable trust with a mission to advance social well-being. It funds and undertakes rigorous research, encourages innovation and supports the use of sound evidence to inform social and economic policy, and improve people's lives. The Nuffield Foundation is the founder and co-funder of the Nuffield Council on Bioethics, the Ada Lovelace Institute and the Nuffield Family Justice Observatory. This project has been funded by the Nuffield Foundation, but the views expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily the Foundation. Find out more at: www.nuffieldfoundation.org . Bluesky: @ nuffieldfoundation.org , LinkedIn: Nuffield Foundation
New Humane Canada Study Identifies Animal Abuse as Early Warning Sign of Youth Online Radicalization
Mon, Jun 08, 2026 18:46 EDT
Research reveals urgent need for coordinated action to address escalating online violence, harmful ideologies, and risks to both animals and youth. Humane Canada has released the first known Canadian study examining the link between animal abuse and online radicalization of youth, highlighting a growing threat to public safety, child protection, and animal welfare. Drawing on insights from law enforcement, youth-serving organizations, and violence prevention experts, Beyond Promising Practices: Examining Root Causes of Online Radicalization documents troubling patterns of escalating online violence, exposure to misogynistic and nihilistic ideologies, and the use of animal abuse as an overlooked warning sign within harmful digital environments. "This study underscores that cruelty to animals does not happen in isolation. It is part of a wider pattern of violence and exploitation that demands earlier recognition and a coordinated public response, which would better protect both animals and children from escalating harm," Kerri Thomson, Manager of Justice and Legislative Affairs, Humane Canada. The findings suggest that animal harm may be part of broader pathways of coercion, desensitization, and status-seeking behaviour within violent online communities. These behaviours linked to social isolation, trauma, mental health challenges, and algorithm-driven exposure to increasingly harmful content on largely unregulated platforms. "While boys and young men are disproportionately targeted, the study also shows a growing impact on girls and young women-as both victims and sometimes as participants in these online environments," said Thomson. Experts warn that failing to recognize early warning signs-such as animal abuse-means missing critical opportunities to intervene before violence escalates. Humane Canada is calling for immediate, cross-sector action to address this emerging public safety issue, including: Stronger accountability for technology platforms Early, empathy-focused education programs Improved digital literacy and online safety supports Community-based prevention initiatives The organization is urging the federal government to ensure that proposed online harms legislation includes the creation, distribution, sale, and possession of animal cruelty content - currently not addressed under existing law. Access the Report A summary of key findings is available now, with the full report accessible through Humane Canada's website. Quick Facts 80% of survey respondents reported that rhetoric from boys and young men has become more violent and aggressive over the past five years. (Humane Canada, 2026) 73% of respondents indicated that girls and young women are also exhibiting violent behaviour online, pointing to broader shifts in online interaction dynamics. (Humane Canada, 2026) Of 127 reports of extreme online violence received between June 2022 and December 2025, 70 occurred in 2025 alone , with girls representing 84% of victims where gender was known. (Canadian Centre for Child Protection, 2026) Among adults who actively sought child sexual abuse material, 49% also encountered or searched for other harmful or illegal content , including animal cruelty, self-harm and suicide, death and murder, and gore. (Protect Children Finland & Ofcom, 2026) 39% of these respondents reported that online platform algorithms recommended harmful or sexual content they had not actively searched for , underscoring concerns about automated content distribution. (Protect Children Finland & Ofcom, 2026) About Humane Canada Humane Canada is the federation of humane societies and SPCAs and the national voice for animal welfare in Canada. Working collaboratively across sectors, the organization advances the humane treatment and protection of animals through advocacy, education, and the promotion of evidence-informed law and policy. Humane Canada is also the Lead Agency and founder of the Canadian Violence Link Coalition (CVLC) and convenor of the National Centre for the Prosecution of Animal Cruelty (NCPAC).