Technology

SMX (Security Matters) PLC Announces Pricing of $2.9 Million Public Offering

Published

11 months ago

February 16, 2024

NEW YORK, Feb. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — SMX (Security Matters) PLC (NASDAQ:SMX; SMXWW), today announced the pricing of a public offering of approximately 12,125,000 ordinary shares, par value $0.0022 per share, at a public offering price of $0.24 per share, for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately $2,910,000, prior to deducting underwriting discounts and other offering expenses.

EF Hutton LLC (“EF Hutton”) is acting as the sole book running manager for the offering. Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C. is acting as legal counsel to the Company, Lucosky Brookman LLP is acting as legal counsel to EF Hutton.

The offering is being conducted pursuant to the Company’s registration statement on Form F-1, previously filed January 30, 2024 with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), as amended on February 8, 2024 and February 14, 2024 (File No. 333-276760), that was declared effective by the SEC on February 15, 2024. A final prospectus relating to the offering will be filed with the SEC and will be available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Electronic copies of the final prospectus relating to this offering, when available, may be obtained from EF Hutton LLC, 590 Madison Avenue, 39th Floor, New York, NY 10022, Attention: Syndicate Department, or via email at syndicate@efhuttongroup.com or telephone at (212) 404-7002.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.

About SMX (Security Matters) PLC

As global businesses face new and complex challenges relating to carbon neutrality and meeting new governmental and regional regulations and standards, SMX is able to offer players along the value chain access to its marking, tracking, measuring and digital platform technology to transition more successfully to a low-carbon economy.

Forward-Looking Statements

The information in this press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future. In addition, any statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “intends,” “may,” “will,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements in this press release may include, for example: the intended use of proceeds from the offering; successful launch and implementation of SMX’s joint projects with manufacturers and other supply chain participants of steel, rubber and other materials; changes in SMX’s strategy, future operations, financial position, estimated revenues and losses, projected costs, prospects and plans; SMX’s ability to develop and launch new products and services; SMX’s ability to successfully and efficiently integrate future expansion plans and opportunities; SMX’s ability to grow its business in a cost-effective manner; SMX’s product development timeline and estimated research and development costs; the implementation, market acceptance and success of SMX’s business model; developments and projections relating to SMX’s competitors and industry; and SMX’s approach and goals with respect to technology. These forward-looking statements are based on information available as of the date of this press release, and current expectations, forecasts and assumptions, and involve a number of judgments, risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing views as of any subsequent date, and no obligation is undertaken to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. As a result of a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, actual results or performance may be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Some factors that could cause actual results to differ include: the ability to maintain the listing of the Company’s shares on Nasdaq; changes in applicable laws or regulations; any lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on SMX’s business; the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations, and identify and realize additional opportunities; the risk of downturns and the possibility of rapid change in the highly competitive industry in which SMX operates; the risk that SMX and its current and future collaborators are unable to successfully develop and commercialize SMX’s products or services, or experience significant delays in doing so; the risk that the Company may never achieve or sustain profitability; the risk that the Company will need to raise additional capital to execute its business plan, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all; the risk that the Company experiences difficulties in managing its growth and expanding operations; the risk that third-party suppliers and manufacturers are not able to fully and timely meet their obligations; the risk that SMX is unable to secure or protect its intellectual property; the possibility that SMX may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; and other risks and uncertainties described in SMX’s filings from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

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SOURCE SMX

Technology

Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More Ends 2024 With Steady Growth and Major Innovations

Published

14 minutes ago

January 15, 2025

Big Frog celebrates a year of progress with five new locations, the launch of an e-commerce solution and additional initiatives to enhance franchisee success nationwide.

DUNEDIN, Fla. , Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More, a leader in custom apparel franchising with over 75 locations across the U.S., is celebrating a successful 2024 full of new initiatives and growth.

“Our focus in 2024 was on launching and refining our new point-of-sale system, a critical investment in the future of our franchisees,” said Tina Bacon-DeFrece, founder and CEO of Big Frog. “This initiative laid the foundation for even greater success as we continue to enhance operations and support our stores.”

Revenue growth for the year was approximately 5%, supported by robust digital marketing efforts and the introduction of Big Frog’s Success Program, which encourages franchisees to engage more actively in marketing planning. Stores that followed their plans closely experienced notable growth, showcasing the program’s potential.

Five new franchise locations opened in 2024, including exciting expansions into Stockton, California, and Albuquerque, New Mexico. Although two additional locations were delayed due to permitting issues, they are set to open in early 2025.

“This year marked exciting expansion for Big Frog, including our first locations in Northern California and New Mexico,” said Bacon-DeFrece. “Our growth strategy, under the leadership of our new chief development officer, David Braun, is heavily focused on leveraging broker networks, digital initiatives, public relations, and organic search. It really has ignited interest across the country in our brand. We’re thrilled to expand into new regions while also strengthening our presence in areas like Florida, where local support is right in our backyard.”

Complementing these development efforts have been Big Frog’s existing franchisees, which have proven to be an excellent referral source and point of validation for prospective owners interested in the brand.

“We’ve refined our process over the years and now set up formal calls, which have been really nice for candidates because it sets expectations and dedicated times for them to speak one-on-one with our franchisees,” Bacon-DeFrece said. “That’s really made the validation process a lot easier for everyone since there is less back and forth.”

Big Frog is also taking a major step forward in leveraging technology to enhance its services and support franchisees. This year, the company focused on developing an innovative e-commerce platform that combines the convenience of online shopping with the personal touch of local fulfillment, setting the stage for its beta launch.

“Our e-commerce initiative has been one of the most exciting projects for Big Frog this year,” said Bacon-DeFrece. “We’re in the process of launching a national platform where customers can design and purchase custom apparel online, with fulfillment handled by our local stores. A key priority for us is ensuring fair revenue distribution across all locations, so every franchisee benefits whether they’re in a major metro area or a smaller market.”

In custom apparel trends, the brand saw increased demand for high-end corporate products like Carhartt and North Face items, as well as continued interest in promotional products. These offerings cater to clients seeking premium-quality branded merchandise.

“We now have access to a lot of those types of blank apparel to decorate,” said Bacon-DeFrece. “Our B2B customers really like that they get some really high end products, either for corporate gifts or for their team.”

Looking ahead to 2025, Big Frog aims to achieve double-digit revenue growth for its stores while exploring advancements in artificial intelligence to simplify store operations. The e-commerce solution, once fully launched, is expected to play a pivotal role in boosting franchisee revenue.

ABOUT BIG FROG CUSTOM T-SHIRTS & MORE:
Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Dunedin, Florida, Big Frog Custom T-Shirts and More, Inc. is an international franchise system with over 75 independently owned and operated stores serving consumers and businesses across the U.S. and Canada. Big Frog specializes in direct to garment printing (DTG) and is a one-stop shop for all custom apparel decorating techniques, as well as branded promotional products. Big Frog offers free design help, no minimums, no art/setup fees, and fast turnaround. Find a store at BIGFROG.COM, U.S. franchise opportunities at BIGFROGFRANCHISE.COM, Canadian franchise opportunities at BIGFROG.CA, and Big Frog on YouTube.

Media Contact

Chad Cohen, Mainland, 3125263996, ccohen@hellomainland.com, www.hellomainland.com

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SOURCE Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More

Technology

New Website Helps Consumers Navigate an Important Battery Choice for their EV or Hybrid Vehicle

Published

14 minutes ago

January 15, 2025

East Penn has developed a new website to help navigate through the new ways batteries are being used in EV and Hybrid vehicles.

LYON STATION, Pa., Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — East Penn has developed a new website to help navigate through the new ways batteries are being used in EV and Hybrid vehicles. These vehicles are more complex with different battery voltage systems within the same vehicle. They use both lithium and lead battery solutions, which are dependent on each other to operate a vehicle.

The lithium batteries that power the high voltage system are designed by the automotive manufacturer and most likely last for the life of the vehicle. However, the battery for the low voltage system will eventually need to be replaced. Making the right choice when replacing the 12-volt battery will protect both voltage systems. The battery that’s chosen could either enhance or hinder the overall performance and safety of the EV or Hybrid vehicle over time.

Traditional vehicles use a 12-volt battery to start the engine and to stabilize the electronics. Electric and Hybrid vehicles use the 12-volt battery for all types of safety critical and auxiliary power reasons. Here are a few:

Start-stop functions in micro hybridsStarting assistPowering cabin accessoriesSteer-by-wire power backupBrake-by-wire power backupOther smart controls or enhanced functions

It is more important than ever that the consumer understands the capabilities of the replacement battery for their EV or Hybrid. Battery manufacturers and distributors are beginning to designate their products so that the consumer has the reassurance that they have the right type of replacement battery to meet these safety-critical demands. East Penn has designated its Deka Intimidator line of AGM batteries with the EHP symbol that stands for Electric Hybrid Performance to help give the consumer added reassurance. It’s also important to note, that these lead batteries have achieved the highest Recycled Content (98%) Environmental validation from UL further accrediting them as one of the most sustainable products in the world.

East Penn is a leading manufacturer of high-quality lead batteries and accessories for the automotive, commercial, marine, motive power, UPS, and telecommunication markets. The company’s quality and environmental systems for its entire 520-acre complex have been certified to ISO 9001:2015, ISO/TS 16949:2016, and ISO 14001:2015 requirements. To learn more about the company visit https://www.eastpennmanufacturing.com. To learn more about the power you have to recycle visit https://www.eastpennmanufacturing.com/power2recycle.

Media Contact

Joel Brady, East Penn Manufacturing, Co., 1 610-682-6361 2740, jbrady@dekabatteries.com, https://www.eastpennmanufacturing.com/

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SOURCE East Penn Manufacturing, Co.

Technology

Get Covered Welcomes Dharmesh Shroff as VP of Engineering

Published

14 minutes ago

January 15, 2025

NEW YORK, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Get Covered, a leading renters insurance technology company, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Dharmesh Shroff as VP of Engineering. Dharmesh brings over 18 years of experience driving technology innovation in the PropTech space, where he has consistently delivered scalable platforms and seamless integrations.

“We are excited to welcome Dharmesh to the Get Covered family,” said CEO, Brandon Tobman. “His deep expertise in building robust integrations and API ecosystems will be instrumental as we continue to redefine the renter’s insurance experience for our customers and partners and expand our offering.”

Proven Expertise in Technology Leadership

Dharmesh joins Get Covered following a distinguished career that includes serving as SVP of Engineering at Entrata and other leading Property Management Systems companies. “I’m excited about the opportunity to bring transformative technology to the insurance industry, much like I did in the PropTech space,” Dharmesh said. “The parallels between PropTech and InsurTech—both dealing with highly fragmented data and the need for seamless integrations—make this an exciting new challenge.”

Vision for the Future

As VP of Engineering, Dharmesh aims to enhance the customer experience by advancing real-time data integration, incorporating AI-driven capabilities for smarter interactions, and setting new standards for API security and interoperability. His goal is to help create a highly adaptable integration framework that empowers partners and developers while delivering faster, more personalized insurance solutions.

“APIs are more than just tools; they’re the backbone of connected, smarter customer experiences,” Dharmesh explained.

Building on a Culture of Excellence

In addition to his technical expertise, Dharmesh is known for his leadership in building world-class engineering teams. At Pattern he hired over 95 employees across development roles, while at Entrata, he built a robust operation which grew to over 800 employees.

“Attracting and retaining top talent starts with creating a culture of innovation, ownership, and growth,” Dharmesh said.

Dharmesh’s leadership style is also influenced by his commitment to mindfulness, which helps him stay empathetic, focused, and resilient in high-pressure situations.

About Get Covered

Get Covered is revolutionizing the renters insurance industry with cutting-edge technology that simplifies the insurance process for tenants, landlords, and property managers. By combining innovative solutions with a customer-centric approach, Get Covered is setting a new standard for insurance technology.

For more information about Get Covered and its leadership team, visit www.getcovered.io

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SOURCE Get Covered