Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo BSC (c) Selects Syncron to Streamline Parts Inventory

Leading automotive distributor employs Syncron Inventory to increase aftermarket revenue and boost productivity

ATLANTA, Dec. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Syncron announced today that Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo BSC (c), Bahrain’s leading automotive and diversified business conglomerate, has selected Syncron Inventory to optimize its parts inventory for a more connected, reliable, profitable and customer-focused aftermarket business.

“We need a group-wide, centralized approach,” said Stefan Moench, chief operating officer, Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo. “From an operational perspective, our parts operations has become more complex. Each department has site-specific ordering guidelines, so they have different policies and follow different processes. With a centralized solution, we can resolve these issues and streamline our inventory operations.”

By partnering with Syncron, Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo optimized its parts inventory business, supporting a multinational workforce of over 2,600 employees and roughly $1 billion in revenue. With predictive analytics, data simulations and advanced reporting features, Syncron Inventory is an industry leader that gives manufacturers invaluable visibility into inventory operations and helps them develop clear and actionable insights.

When looking for a new inventory solution, Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo wanted an intuitive platform with high usability that could test different scenarios for more efficient decision making. “With advanced processing tools, Syncron Inventory enables durable goods manufacturers to resolve inventory concerns before they become problematic,” said Anneliese Schulz, chief revenue officer, Syncron. “Syncron Inventory synthesizes millions of data points into personalized insights for advanced forecasting, resulting in lower supply chain costs and parts availability improvement.”

Syncron takes a customer-centric approach to product implementation and post-implementation. “The whole process was quite smooth,” said Jawed Akhtar, chief information officer, Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo. “We appreciate the professional approach and clear communication. We always knew what to expect. It was one of the easiest implementations I have ever been part of.”

Syncron Inventory is an essential component of the Syncron Connected Service Experience (CSX) Cloud, the foundational platform that enables service organizations to transform their approach to service lifecycle management (SLM), from beginning to end.

To learn more about Syncron Inventory, visit syncron.com/inventory.

About Syncron
Syncron empowers leading manufacturers and distributors to capitalize on the new service economy. We improve aftermarket business profitability, optimize working capital, increase customer loyalty and successfully enable the transition to service-driven business models. With industry-leading investments in AI and ML, Syncron offers the first innovative, customer-endorsed, end-to-end intelligent SLM solutions portfolio. Delivered on our CSX platform, our solutions include parts inventory, price, warranty, service contract, and field service management. It is no secret that the world’s top brands trust Syncron, the largest, privately-owned global leader in intelligent SLM software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions. For more, visit syncron.com.

About Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo, BSC (c)
Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo, BSC (c) is a diversified business conglomerate with its core business in automotive retail and aftersales services, as well as several related sectors and industries, including automotive care products, vehicle hire and leasing, management consulting, information technology (IT) services and security, industrial equipment, tyres, paint and spare parts. With a dedicated, multinational workforce of over 2,600 professionals, Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo, BSC (c) excels in pioneering innovative business solutions and building trusting relationships with its valued customers. Learn more at ekkanoo.com.

CONTACT: info@syncron.com

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‫‫وقعت FOTON اتفاقية تطوير مشتركة، لتسريع أعمال الطاقة الأوروبية الجديدة

بكين، 15 ديسمبر 2022 / PRNewswire / — في 29 نوفمبر 2022، وقعت FOTON اتفاقية مع شريك أوروبي لتطوير مركبة تجارية كهربائية خفيفة جديدة. تعزز الاتفاقية الشراكة التي أقامتها المجموعتان في سبتمبر 2017 من أجل التطوير المشترك للحلول المبتكرة لسوق المركبات التجارية الخفيفة. خلال الأشهر القادمة، سينتهي الطرفان من الوثائق الفنية للمشروع والعقود بحلول ربيع 2023.

FOTON EV truck launched at the Green Logistics Expo 2022 in Padua, Italy.

ستعزز هذه الاتفاقية الجديدة الشراكة التي أنشأتها المجموعتان في مايو 2018 لتطوير وإنتاج منتجات مركبات تجارية خفيفة جديدة للسوق الأوروبية، بناءً على منصة FOTON لمنتجات الشاحنات الصغيرة. بعد أكثر من عامين من التطوير المشترك، تم إطلاق أول شاحنة مدينة للطرفين NP6 في أوروبا في 26 يناير 2021، والتي تتوافق تمامًا مع المعايير الأوروبية.

في نوفمبر الماضي فقط في معرض اللوجستيات الخضراء 2022 في بادوا، إيطاليا، جلبت FOTON الشاحنات الكهربائية بالكامل التي تم تطويرها للسوق الأوروبية، مما أظهر علامات على دخول سوق الطاقة الأوروبية الجديدة.

في يونيو من هذا العام، بدأت FOTON بالفعل في الظهور في أوروبا. في 3 يونيو، طرحت FOTON لأول مرة شاحنتين كهربائيتين خالصتين تم تطويرهما خصيصًا للسوق الأوروبية في معرض IFAT في ميونيخ، ألمانيا. ومنذ ذلك الحين، بدأت FOTON دخولها إلى سوق الطاقة الأوروبية الجديدة.

من المعروف أن الاتحاد الأوروبي توصل إلى اتفاق لحظر السيارات الجديدة التي تعمل بمحركات الاحتراق بشكل فعال اعتبارًا من عام 2035، مما يعني أن سوق مركبات الطاقة الأوروبية الجديدة يتحول إلى المسار السريع. وقد استوفت FOTON بالفعل معاييرها الخاصة بتكنولوجيا الطاقة الجديدة وجودة المنتجات وسلسلة التوريد. وبوصفها بطاقة دخول إلى السوق الأوروبية، فإن WVTA معترف بها دوليًا كواحدة من أكثر أنظمة إصدار الشهادات قيمة في العالم ومقبولة في جميع أنحاء الاتحاد الأوروبي دون الحاجة إلى مزيد من الاختبارات. وقد حصلت مجموعة من منتجات الطاقة الجديدة من FOTON ، بما في ذلك الشاحنات الكهربائية النقية وشبكات VAN والحافلات، على شهادة WVTA وتم تشغيلها في دول مثل أستراليا ونيوزيلندا وسنغافورة.

من المفهوم أن FOTON تقوم أيضًا بتحسين شبكة تشغيلها ومبيعاتها وخدماتها في أوروبا تدريجيًا. في السنوات القادمة، ستسعى FOTON جاهدة لتحقيق اختراقات في الأسواق الأوروبية مثل إيطاليا وبولندا وألمانيا، والاستيلاء تدريجيًا على سوق الطاقة الأوروبية الجديدة من خلال بناء سلسلة صناعية في السوق الراقية.

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Hitachi Energy selected as technology partner to support the transmission of renewable power between Canada and the United States

Substantial modernization of a key transmission system in Canada will support the transfer of electricity between Montreal and New York.

Zurich, Switzerland, Dec. 15, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hitachi Energy, a global technology leader that is advancing a sustainable energy future for all, today announced that it has been selected by Hydro-Québec for its high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology for the transmission of electricity, which will ensure the sustainability of the energy exchange between the Quebec network, in eastern Canada, and New York State in the northeastern United States.

Hydro-Québec, the largest hydroelectricity producer in Canada and one of the largest hydroelectricity producers in the world, is a public company that generates, transmits, and distributes reliable, clean and renewable electricity in Québec. Thanks to its surplus energy, it supplies the Canadian provinces and the northeastern United States.

The Châteauguay HVDC system will enable the transmission of up to 1,500 megawatts of electricity between the electrical networks of Quebec and the state of New York which will contribute to maintaining a low carbon footprint in the region. This new system will replace existing equipment which has been in operation since 1984*1, increasing the efficiency and controllability, plus raising the power conversion capacity of the Châteauguay HVDC system*2 by 50 percent.

*1 Châteauguay “back-to-back” HVDC converter station

*2 Subject to authorization by the Régie de l’énergie du Québec of the project to replace the converter units at Châteauguay substation.

“We are proud to be returning to the Chateauguay HVDC station, after helping to build it almost four decades ago,” said Niklas Persson, Managing Director of Hitachi Energy’s Grid Integration business. “This new system represents an important enhancement to the ability to transmit large-scale hydro power between Canada and the United States, which will support the shift away from fossil fuel.”

Hitachi Energy is supplying a “back-to-back” converter station, which converts AC power to DC then reconverts it to AC from DC enabling the interconnection of the 735 kilovolt Canadian and 765 kilovolt New York grids which are “out of phase” and cannot be connected directly via traditional AC systems.

Note to editors:

Hitachi Energy’s HVDC solution combines world-leading expertise in HVDC converter valves; the MACH™ digital control platform*3, which enables renewables integration and manages voltage and frequency disturbances in the grid; converter power transformers and high-voltage switchgear; as well as system studies, design and engineering, supply, installation supervision and commissioning.

*3 Modular Advanced Control for HVDC (MACH™)

HVDC Light® is a voltage source converter technology developed by Hitachi Energy. It is the preferred technology for many grid applications, including interconnecting countries, integrating renewables and “power-from-shore” connections to offshore production facilities. HVDC Light’s defining features include uniquely compact converter stations and exceptionally low electrical losses.

Hitachi Energy pioneered commercial HVDC technology almost 70 years ago and has delivered more than half of the world’s HVDC projects.

HVDC website:

https://www.hitachienergy.com/offering/product-and-system/hvdc

About Hitachi Energy Ltd.

Hitachi Energy is a global technology leader that is advancing a sustainable energy future for all. We serve customers in the utility, industry and infrastructure sectors with innovative solutions and services across the value chain. Together with customers and partners, we pioneer technologies and enable the digital transformation required to accelerate the energy transition towards a carbon-neutral future. We are advancing the world’s energy system to become more sustainable, flexible and secure whilst balancing social, environmental and economic value. Hitachi Energy has a proven track record and unparalleled installed base in more than 140 countries. Headquartered in Switzerland, we employ around 40,000 people in 90 countries and generate business volumes of approximately $10 billion USD.

https://www.hitachienergy.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/hitachienergy

https://twitter.com/HitachiEnergy

About Hitachi, Ltd.

Hitachi drives Social Innovation Business, creating a sustainable society with data and technology. We will solve customers’ and society’s challenges with Lumada solutions leveraging IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products, under the business structure of Digital Systems & Services, Green Energy & Mobility, Connective Industries and Automotive Systems. Driven by green, digital, and innovation, we aim for growth through collaboration with our customers. The company’s consolidated revenues for fiscal year 2021 (ended March 31, 2022) totaled 10,264.6 billion yen ($84,136 million USD), with 853 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 370,000 employees worldwide. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company’s website at https://www.hitachi.com.

Attachments

Jocelyn Chang
Hitachi Energy
+41793847775
jocelyn.chang@hitachienergy.com

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8715203

Accor’s list of top 2023 hotel openings

A SNAPSHOT OF “COMING SOON” PROPERTIES FROM THE WORLD’S MOST DIVERSE PORTFOLIO OF HOSPITALITY BRANDS

PARIS, Dec. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — As buzz and anticipation builds around 2023 travel planning, Accor is pleased to reveal a short list of highly anticipated properties to open next year. From city breaks to beach getaways, from eco-minded or budget-friendly hotels to ultra-luxurious hideaways, these are the gorgeous and adventurous new destinations that guests and world travelers will be eager to see…and be seen among. No TikTok or Instagram filters required!

LUXURY HOTELS & RESORTS

Accor is a global leader in luxury, having curated one of the most extraordinary luxury portfolios in the world. Accor’s luxury brands are known not only for their gracious, caring, and bespoke hospitality, but also for their award-winning restaurants and bars, transformative wellness programming, and customized experiences that open minds, expand knowledge, and shift perspectives.

Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Panama (Early 2023)
The first and only luxury hotel in Panama with an authentic French identity, bringing its quintessential Art de vivre to the historic city of Casco Viejo, Panama, A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Panama will be the sixth legendary address in the prestigious Sofitel Legend brand portfolio. Directly built out into the water, with unobstructed and impressive views of the Pacific Ocean and Panama city skyline, the hotel will feature a superior mix of facilities and amenities, including 159 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, the vast majority with enviable seascapes; five spectacular food and beverage venues, including a rooftop bar and lounge; an oceanfront pool; and approximately 9,880 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor function space.

Fairmont Ramla Serviced Residences, Riyadh (Early 2023)
Fairmont Ramla Serviced Residences is a truly unique eco-conscious luxury destination that will soon be the most sought-after residential address in the capital. Thirty-five floors accommodate 249 spacious and luxurious residential units, each stepping out onto private terraces that offer spectacular views of Riyadh city. The hotel is in the heart of the action, near King Abdullah Financial District and Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center, with easy access to King Khalid International Airport.

Raffles London at The OWO (Mid 2023)
This architectural masterpiece, located at the historic Old War Office in Whitehall, London, has seen its share of Britain’s most famous statesmen and spies, from Winston Churchill to Ian Fleming. The landmark building has undergone a monumental transformation and now features 120 lavish guestrooms and suites, 85 spectacular private residences and 11 ultra-stylish restaurants and bars. An exclusive Guerlain spa and wellness facility by PILLAR will offer private memberships for locals in the know.

Raffles Boston Back Bay Hotel & Residences (Mid 2023)
The first Raffles hotel in North America will open its doors this year, bringing a new level of elegance, glamour and adventure to the historic city of Boston. Located in the prestigious Back Bay neighborhood, the luxurious hotel features a stunning three-story sky lobby that is the first of its kind in the city. The distinctive 35-story building offers a unique collection of 147 guestrooms and 146 residences, with pied-a-terre suites, one- to three-bedroom homes and magnificent penthouses.

Raffles at Galaxy Macau (Mid 2023)
A stunning addition to the Galaxy Macau™, a world-class luxury integrated resort, Raffles at Galaxy Macau will introduce a new level of sophistication and refinement to Macau. Each of the 450 suites is designed as a luxurious modern palazzo, with Samsung The Frame Hospitality in every room and the brand’s famed Raffles Butlers providing discreet bespoke service.

Domaine De La Reine Margot – MGallery (Mid 2023)
Guests will find a welcoming sense of refinement here in the heart of the Jardin des Quiétudes, at the gates of Paris. The historic 17th century monument was originally the home of Queen Marguerite de Valois. Revived by esteemed designer Jean-Michel Wilmotte, the new Domaine De La Reine Margot – MGallery blends old-world splendor with contemporary chic. A sumptuous spa allows guests to indulge in moments of self-care, while a vegetable garden and orchard provide abundant outdoor beauty.

Sofitel Shanghai North Bund (Late 2023)
French art de vivre will shine brightly at the stunning 25-story landmark hotel, featuring 300 opulent guest rooms and suites with outstanding views of the famous Shanghai skyline. Guests will adore the rooftop bar, certain to become a Bund hotspot, with its sweeping river views. Modern French style infuses the hotel experience here, with Club Millésime, a lavish Sofitel Spa and an ultramodern Sofitel Fitness gym.

MontAzure Lakeside Phuket – MGallery (Late 2023)
The first MGallery Residences in Thailand will overlook the turquoise waters and lush greenery of Phuket’s Kamala Beach. The exquisite, boutique style resort invites residents into a private community of 236 spacious studios and one-bedroom residences surrounded by gardens, lakes, and cascading fountains. MGallery’s signature sense of well-being and everyday self-care is part of the experience, with a relaxation pavilion, jogging track, yoga platform, fitness center, clubhouse, nature trail, family-friendly pool area, as well as a stylish restaurant and delightful pool bar.

LIFESTYLE HOTELS (ENNISMORE)

Ennismore is a creative hospitality company with a global collective of entrepreneurial and founder-built brands with purpose at their heart. It curates and manages unique properties and experiences in some of the most exciting destinations around the world. Accor  and Ennismore    entered a joint venture in 2021 to create the world’s fastest-growing lifestyle hospitality company. Next year, Ennismore is currently on course to open over 30 hotels and branded residences – continuing this year’s trend of opening a new hotel on average every two weeks.

Maison Delano Paris (Early 2023)
Located in the heart of the ultra-chic 8th Arrondissement, Maison Delano Paris is an oasis within the bustling city. Occupying an 18th century courtyard building at 4 Rue d’Anjou, this is a place to experience exceptional and exclusive culinary concepts by three-star Michelin Chef Dani García, a fresh perspective on wellness and hyper-exclusive curated moments.

Mama Shelter Rennes (Early 2023)
Centrally located just a few steps from Place des Lices and the famous rue de la Soif, Mama Shelter Rennes will be home to the first ever Mama Skin Spa. Disrupting Rennes’ hospitality scene with an entirely new offering, the hotel will have 119 bedrooms, five workshops, a restaurant, swimming pool, several karaoke rooms as well as the city’s first rooftop bar with sweeping views of medieval towers.

SO/ Uptown Dubai (Early 2023)
The first of its kind in the Middle East, SO/ provides a world of avant-garde fashion and style. Located in the landmark Uptown Tower, an architectural marvel inspired by the shape and light reflections of a diamond, SO/ Uptown Dubai will house destination restaurants and bars, a sublime spa and swimming pool, and a standout ballroom, alongside 188 stylish guestrooms. An exclusive collection of 229 private residences will also be available, including one, two and three-bedroom apartments as well as four-bedroom duplexes, all with uninterrupted views across the city’s spectacular skyline.

21c Museum Hotel St. Louis (Early 2023)
The historic 10-story Renaissance Revival landmark of St. Louis is entering a new era. 21c is breathing new life into the century-old building with contemporary art filled spaces, community-focused cultural programming, locally sourced food and beverage, and of course, world leading hospitality. Honoring the building’s roots as a former YMCA site, 21c St. Louis will also feature a full-service athletic and swim club.

TRIBE Bangkok Sukhumvit 39 (Early 2023)
The Social Hub is at the heart of TRIBE Bangkok Sukhumvit 39. Comfortable and functional by design, it is also home to a café with grab-and-go snacks, barista coffees by day, and signature cocktails by night. Every detail is considered to create a stylish and smart home away from home. Whether to stay fit or to relax, TRIBE guests can enjoy the gym, swimming pool, and Onsen spa.

Mondrian Singapore (Early 2023)
Located in the up-and-coming neighborhood of Duxton Hill, a stone’s throw from the city’s Central Business District, Mondrian Singapore is nestled among the trendiest cafes, world-class eateries and bars, art galleries and independent boutiques. Rising above the historic and colorful Chinatown shophouses, the hotel is set to have some of the best views of the glittering city skyline.

Rixos Qetaifan Island, Doha (Mid 2023)
Overlooking the Arabian Gulf, the new Rixos Qetaifan Island resort offers endless fun for all ages. The hotel’s Rixy Kids Club will provide a happy place where children can do arts & crafts, make friends, and have fun. Adults will enjoy the ultimate relaxing holiday with traditional Turkish hammam and luxurious spa treatment rooms, the Exclusive Sports Club, and evening entertainment with world-class live performances.

The Hoxton, Charlottenburg (Mid 2023)
The Hoxton will be located in Charlottenburg in West Berlin; an area loved for its eclectic dining scene and antique stores, and just a few minutes from the popular Kurfürstendamm shopping area. Settling into a former hotel, the brand’s first German outpost has been transformed with the help of AIME Studios, Ennismore’s in-house design studio. Taking inspiration from the neighborhood – which was at the heart of the city’s creative rebirth during Berlin’s Golden Twenties era – the hotel’s 234 rooms will be decked out in Art Nouveau-inspired forms, expressive design details and soft, muted tones.

Mondrian and Hyde Ibiza (Mid 2023)
Heading to the beautiful island of Ibiza for the first time in the summer of 2023 will be two of Ennismore’s brands – Mondrian and Hyde. Both hotels will be located on the south-east side of the island, in the picturesque Cala Llonga Bay with wide sandy beaches and pine-clad hills on either side. Mondrian Ibiza will be home to 154 rooms, whilst Hyde Ibiza will have 409. Across the two properties, there will be nine restaurants and bars, including a beach club, all curated by Ennismore’s F&B concept studio, Carte Blanched.

MORE BRANDS, MORE HOTELS, MORE MARKETS

The hotly anticipated hotels mentioned above provide a starry-eyed glimpse into Accor’s 2023 plans in the luxury and lifestyle categories. Overall, the company will open hundreds of new hotels and resorts around the world, throughout its growing portfolio of 40+ brands. Here are just a few more samples to whet those travel appetites.

EUROPE

greet hotel Paris Hippodrome De Vincennes (Early 2023)
greet hotels are advocates of the “do good, feel good” mindset – where good actions fuel good feelings. At greet hotel Paris Hippodrome De Vincennes, guests will experience a unique hospitality and eco-design experience, starting with a charming welcome drink and freshly baked treats from local shop owners. In the comfy social areas, guests meet, play board games, and hang out amid the great vibe and cheerfully upcycled furnishings.

ibis Styles Copenhagen Ørestad, Denmark (Early 2023)
ibis Styles debuts in Denmark this winter. The new hotel is designed to combine urban living with the serenity of nature; two themes brought to life in the hotel’s design in stark and brilliant contrast. The stylish design-led hotel is ideally located within the vibrant island Amager district near Copenhagen city center. Situated within the popular Nest45 project, the hotel is nestled within an eye-catching hub of offices and small businesses.

Swissôtel Tbilisi, Georgia (Mid 2023)
The first Swissôtel in Georgia will be located in the heart of the Tbilisi Old Town. Guests will benefit from its prime location in Tbilisi’s city center, close to the National Gallery and House of Parliament, in close proximity to three city parks and key sights. The interior design by the Sundukovy Sisters is distinguished by floral motifs and decorative elements, creating an oasis of calm and nature. The opulent rooftop restaurant and bar on the 7th floor offers mesmerizing views of the city.

Pullman Okol Resort Golf & Spa, Bulgaria (Mid 2023)
Pullman debuts in Bulgaria in 2023. The 140-bedroom hotel and 40 branded residences are situated just 30 km southeast of Sofia city and only 20 minutes away from one of the biggest ski resorts in Bulgaria – Borovets. Surrounded by beautiful parkland, Pullman Okol Golf Resort & Spa is part of the OKOL Lake Park project on the edge of Iskar Lake, to the southeast of Sofia. The hotel’s design is inspired by the surrounding nature and Bulgarian cultural heritage.

Adagio London Whitechapel (Late 2023)
For guests who desire the helpful services of a hotel and the freedom to live like a local in a neighborhood apartment, Adagio offers an easy balance of both. Designed for longer stays, the 147 serviced apartments on Whitechapel Road in East London will provide one or two-bedroom apartments, complete with kitchens. Lively common areas create a welcoming, convivial atmosphere that encourages new connections.

Swissôtel Resort Kolasin, Montenegro (Late 2023)
The first Accor property in Montenegro will be located at 1600 meters above sea level amidst picturesque ski slopes. The 116-room hotel’s design integrates with the natural ambiance, preserving the location and capturing the essence of Swissôtel’s natural vitality. An ideal base for winter sports fans, the new property is located within Kolasin’s K16 resort alongside the magnificent mountain range of Bjelasica – a perfect destination for those looking to hit the slopes.

THE AMERICAS

Novotel Mexico City Centro Historico (Late 2023)
Novotel, one of the world’s most well-known and trusted midscale hotel brands, is bolstering its presence in Mexico City with a fourth property – in the historic central district. At Novotel Mexico City Centro Historico, business travelers will clock out and rest up, while families soak up quality time together. From the welcoming, relaxed multipurpose social hub to the informal bar and the spacious rooms, every aspect of the hotel relies on elegant, modern design to create a warm, friendly atmosphere.

CHINA

Mövenpick by Accor, Qingdao (Late 2023)
This new twist on a classic brand is unique to China and will open its first hotel in the beautiful coastal city of Qingdao, in eastern Shandong Province – coinciding with the 75th anniversary of the Mövenpick brand. Based on the well-known and beloved Mövenpick brand characteristics and Swiss heritage, Mövenpick by Accor will offer a China-specific adaptation of the brand – tailored to the interests, tastes, culture, and preferences of Chinese travelers.

Grand Mercure Living Chengdu & Grand Mercure Chengdu (Late 2023)
A charming and inviting experience awaits at the new Grand Mercure hotel in Chengdu and the first Grand Mercure Living residences in China. Travelers and homeowners alike will delight in Grand Mercure’s embrace of cultural traditions, locally influenced cuisine, and inspired artistic expression. Located within the Western Financial Innovation Center, hotel guests and residence owners will enjoy the convenience of being in the center of the action of the area’s business district, with the comfort of returning to Grand Mercure’s warm style of hospitality.

INDIA, MIDDLE EAST, ASIA, & AFRICA

Mercure Hotel Cairns (Early 2023)
Mercure will arrive in the coastal holiday hotspot of Cairns in Tropical North Queensland with the opening of Mercure Hotel Cairns. The new hotel emerges following a multi-million dollar refurbishment and rebrand. Surrounded and inspired by nature, Mercure Hotel Cairns comprises 75 spacious guestrooms and a new modern Australian restaurant serving the finest local produce.

Pullman Singapore Hill Street (Mid 2023)
This 342-room hotel will be Singapore’s first Pullman, flaunting a prime location on Hill Street, in the civic and cultural heart of the city. Attracting progressive thinkers and global travelers, the hotel’s rooftop bar and executive lounge offer inspiring views over Fort Canning, the Singapore River, and St Andrew’s Cathedral. The vibrant lobby is a fluid space for work, play, and connecting with others, while the expansive health and fitness center and pool provide innovative experiences for well-being.

ibis Styles Bangkok Twin Towers (Mid 2023)
The largest ibis Styles hotel in the world will bring its creative and playful energy to the center of Bangkok, just steps away from the business district, shopping and favorite tourist spots such as MBK, Siam Paragon and Siam Discovery. With more than 600 uniquely designed guestrooms, the trendy and economical hotel will offer three restaurants, meeting rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, and spa – along with joyful little extras to make every stay feel personal and special.

Novotel New Delhi City Centre (Mid 2023)
For travelers looking to relax and unwind, Novotel New Delhi City Centre offers a calm place to enjoy a bit of downtime in the midst of the busy city. Guests can enjoy a cup of signature tea while taking time to enjoy a moment to themselves, or quality time with their loved ones. From the modern guestrooms to the lively social hub and kid-friendly family zone, Novotel is all about contemporary, comfortable and intuitive spaces that allow travelers to make time for what matters most.

Mercure Tokyo Haneda (Late 2023)
The new Mercure Tokyo Haneda will be a sister hotel to the Mercure Tokyo Ginza, providing a charming, dynamic and locally authentic experience of Tokyo. Mercure social hubs offer an all-day-dynamic with flexible places to eat, drink, socialize or work, while the hotel’s common areas and guestrooms are inspired by local Japanese culture and design aesthetics.

Pullman Nairobi Upper Hill (Mid 2023)
Pullman, a pioneering brand with a legacy of hospitality innovation, is delighted to offer a new destination among the bustling vibe of Upper Hill in Nairobi. The new Pullman hotel will offer inspiring views of the city’s skyline, with convenient proximity to the city’s financial district, corporate offices, and international embassies. Guests will enjoy sipping sundowners while gazing over the famous African horizon or set out early to discover the wonders of a Kenyan safari at nearby Nairobi National Park.

ABOUT ACCOR

Accor is a world leading hospitality group consisting of 5,300 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries. The Group has one of the industry’s most diverse and fully-integrated hospitality ecosystems encompassing more than 40 luxury, premium, midscale and economy hotel brands, entertainment and nightlife venues, restaurants and bars, branded private residences, shared accommodation properties, concierge services, co-working spaces and more. Accor’s unmatched position in lifestyle hospitality – one of the fastest growing categories in the industry – is led by Ennismore, a joint venture, which Accor holds a majority shareholding. Ennismore is a creative hospitality company with a global collective of entrepreneurial and founder-built brands with purpose at their heart. Accor boasts an unrivalled portfolio of distinctive brands and more than 230,000 team members worldwide. Members benefit from the company’s comprehensive loyalty program – ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a daily lifestyle companion that provides access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences. Through its global sustainability commitments (such as achieving Net Zero Carbon emissions by 2050, global elimination of single use plastics in its hotels’ guest experience, etc.), Accor Solidarity, RiiSE and ALL Heartist Fund initiatives, the Group is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity and inclusivity. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States. For more information visit group.accor.com, or follow Accor on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok.

Press Contacts: Charlotte Thouvard, charlotte.thouvard@accor.com; Mike Taylor, mike.taylor@accor.com; Line Crieloue, line.crieloue@accor.com

HIGHGATE ANNOUNCES AGREEMENT TO ACQUIRE VICEROY HOTELS & RESORTS

NEW YORK, Dec. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — An affiliate of the Principals of Highgate announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to purchase Viceroy Hotels & Resorts (Viceroy). The LA-based, award-winning hospitality group is known for its highly individual modern luxury hotels and resorts throughout the world, and was voted one of the top 10 hotel brands globally in the 2022 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards. The Viceroy brand debuted in 2000 with the launch of Viceroy Santa Monica and has evolved into a portfolio of hotels and resorts in iconic destinations such as St Lucia, Chicago, Los Cabos and Snowmass.

Highgate Logo

“We are excited for Viceroy’s future and we believe that this acquisition will not only fuel the future expansion of our brand, but also give us a true partner, one who will offer incredible support, opportunity and collaboration. This deal will accelerate our momentum, and solidify our position as the leading modern luxury lifestyle brand in our space,” stated Bill Walshe, CEO of Viceroy.

“We are thrilled to execute this transaction with Viceroy. Viceroy has built an outstanding customer reputation due in part to its strong service culture and incredible team,” said Richard Russo, Principal at Highgate. “Through complementing Viceroy’s platform and DNA with Highgate’s diversified ability to grow through real estate acquisitions, development, and third-party growth channels, Highgate intends to add brand-accretive hotels to the Viceroy portfolio that will further enhance customer perception and brand awareness. Further, through powering Viceroy with a proprietary relationship with Highgate’s operating company, and imparting the benefits of Highgate’s scale, we will be able to provide significant incremental value to associates, guests, owners and partners.”

“We look forward to working with the Viceroy team to add visible and impactful hotels to the platform, and cement Viceroy as one of the most noteworthy luxury lifestyle hotel brands in the industry,” continued Russo. “In the coming months, we will be announcing exciting additions to the portfolio in major urban gateway markets and select resort destinations that will invoke the distinct quality and luxury service that Viceroy has long been known for.”

The transaction is expected to close in early 2023. For more information on Highgate, visit Highgate.com.

ABOUT HIGHGATE:

Highgate is a leading real estate investment and hospitality management company with over $20 billion of assets under management. Highgate has a 30-year track record as an investment manager, operating partner, and developer for REITs, private equity firms, sovereign wealth funds, high net worth individuals, and other institutional investors. With a particular focus in hospitality real estate, Highgate’s portfolio includes over 500 owned and/or managed hotels comprising over 84,000 rooms across the United States, Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Highgate’s capabilities extend to adjacent real estate verticals including multifamily, short-term rentals, and diversified healthcare real estate, as well as investments in real estate-linked securities, technology platforms, and hospitality-related operating businesses. Highgate maintains corporate offices in New York, Dallas, Los Angeles, London, Miami, Seattle, and Waikiki. For more information, visit: www.highgate.com

ABOUT VICEROY HOTELS & RESORTS:

Viceroy Hotels & Resorts is a global modern luxury brand, inspiring travelers with one-of-a-kind, authentic experiences that bring together provocative design and intuitive service. Dynamic destinations immersed in the local community and culture are at the core of the Viceroy guest experience, and to better serve travelers the brand has established three unique hotel categories consisting of the Icon Collection composed of unparalleled properties furnishing lavish experiences, the Lifestyle Series offering energizing stays in vibrant locales, and Urban Retreats based in bold, eccentric cities. Viceroy’s portfolio of hotels and resorts can be found in a diverse array of breathtaking and inspiring destinations, including Los Cabos, Santa Monica, Chicago, Beverly Hills, Riviera Maya, Snowmass, San Francisco, Washington D.C. and St. Lucia. In 2020, the brand expanded to D.C. with the opening of the Viceroy Washington DC and Hotel Zena (Washington D.C.), and Viceroy is growing its international portfolio with the recent opening of Viceroy Kopaonik Serbia and looking ahead with Viceroy at Ombria Resort Algarve (Portugal) in 2023 and Viceroy Bocas Del Toro Panama in 2024. Additionally, Viceroy was named in the top ten of ‘Top 25 Hotel Brands’ on Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2022.

Viceroy for Everyone, Viceroy’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion to its colleagues and guests can be found at www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/about-us/diversity-equity-inclusion.

Viceroy is a member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) DISCOVERY, a unique loyalty program offering exclusive benefits and experiences to its members at over 800 hotels around the world. For more information, visit www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com. Follow Viceroy on Facebook and Instagram.

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POWERCHINA Blue Reflects on Qatar’s Gobi Desert

BEIJING, Dec. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ —  A news report from CRI Online:

The 800.15MWp Al-Kharsaa PV plant built by Power Construction Corporation of China (POWERCHINA) is located in the desert about 80km west of Doha, the capital of Qatar. It is currently the third largest single PV project in the world, and the largest PV project using tracking system and the largest PV project in the world using both double-sided double-glass modules, tracking brackets and string inverters. It is also the world’s largest PV project with a tracking system and the largest PV project in the world to use double-sided double-glass modules, tracking mounts and string inverters. One month before the start of the World Cup, the project was successfully connected to the grid at full capacity, supporting Qatar’s commitment to host a “carbon-neutral” World Cup.

As part of Qatar National Vision 2030, the project covers an area equivalent to 1,400 soccer fields and is expected to provide approximately 18TWh of clean electricity per year, meeting the annual electricity consumption of approximately 300,000 households and 10 percent of the country’s peak load. While the carbon savings from the plant can offset half of the emissions generated by this year’s World Cup.

What’s worth mentioning is that the equipment in the PV area of the project mainly adopts China-made Longi modules, Sungrow inverters and POWERCHINA SPEM’s integrated box-type medium voltage transformers. The total amount of equipment accounts for more than 60% of the total contract amount. Chinese brands are taken to the Middle East market along with the project, providing solid support for the construction of the Belt and Road Initiative.