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Videotron Ltd. Prices Private Offering of $600 Million Series 1 Senior Notes due 2029 and $400 Million Series 2 Senior Notes due 2034

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MONTRÉAL, June 14, 2024 /CNW/ – Videotron Ltd. (“Videotron”) today announced the pricing of its $600 million aggregate principal amount of 4.650% Series 1 Senior Notes due July 15, 2029 (the “Series 1 Notes”) and $400 million aggregate principal amount of 5.000% Series 2 Senior Notes due July 15, 2034 (the “Series 2 Notes” and, together with the Series 1 Notes, the “Notes”) (this offering, the “Offering”). The Series 1 Notes will be sold at $999.47 per $1,000 principal amount of Series 1 Notes and the Series 2 Notes will be sold at $996.75 per $1,000 principal amount of Series 2 Notes. Videotron intends to use the net proceeds of this Offering to repay existing indebtedness, which may include a portion of the revolving facility drawings under Videotron’s credit agreement and repayment of a portion of Videotron’s existing notes. The Offering is expected to close on or about June 21, 2024, subject to customary closing conditions. 

“Shortly after obtaining an investment grade rating from S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s Ratings, I am very proud to announce that Videotron has just priced its first issuance of investment grade notes”, said Pierre Karl Péladeau, President and Chief Executive Officer of Quebecor. “The great success of this transaction demonstrates the financial markets’ trust in Videotron and marks a major step in reducing its borrowing costs,” he added.

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

The Notes are being offered in Canada on a private placement basis in reliance upon exemptions from the prospectus requirements under applicable securities legislation. The Notes have not been and will not be qualified for sale to the public under applicable securities laws in Canada and, accordingly, any offer and sale of the Notes in Canada will be made on a basis which is exempt from the prospectus requirements of such securities laws. The Notes and the related guarantees have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 or applicable state securities laws, and the Notes may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration. The Notes have not been and will not be qualified for sale to the public under applicable Canadian securities laws and, accordingly, any offer and sale of the Notes in Canada will be made on a basis which is exempt from the prospectus and dealer registration requirements of such securities laws.

Videotron (www.videotron.com), a wholly owned subsidiary of Quebecor Media Inc. (www.quebecor.com), is an integrated communications company engaged in television, entertainment, Internet access, wireline telephone and mobile telephone services.

Forward‑Looking Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of United States federal securities legislation (collectively, “forward-looking statements”). All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release, including statements regarding the prospects of our industry and our prospects, plans, financial position and business strategy, may constitute forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about the industries in which we operate as well as beliefs and assumptions made by our management. Such statements include, in particular, statements about our plans, prospects, financial position and business strategies. Words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “continue,” “intend,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “foresee,” “believe,” or “seek,” or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements, by their nature, involve risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Such statements are also subject to assumptions concerning, among other things: our anticipated business strategies; anticipated trends in our business; anticipated reorganizations of any of our segments or businesses, and any related restructuring provisions or impairment charges; and our ability to continue to control costs. We can give no assurance that these estimates and expectations will prove to have been correct. Actual outcomes and results may, and often do, differ from what is expressed, implied or projected in such forward-looking statements, and such differences may be material. Some important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: our ability to successfully continue developing our network and facilities-based mobile services; general economic, financial or market conditions and variations in our businesses; the intensity of competitive activity in the industries in which we operate; new technologies that might change consumer behaviour toward our product suite; unanticipated higher capital spending required to develop our network or to address the continued development of competitive alternative technologies, or the inability to obtain additional capital to continue the development of our business; our ability to implement successfully our business and operating strategies and manage our growth and expansion; risks relating to the acquisition of Freedom Mobile Inc. (“Freedom”), including our ability to successfully integrate Freedom’s operations and to realize synergies, and potential unknown liabilities or costs associated with the acquisition of Freedom; the anticipated benefits and effects of the acquisition of Freedom, which may not be realized in a timely manner or at all, and ongoing operating costs and capital expenditures, which could be different than anticipated, as well as unanticipated litigation or other regulatory proceedings associated with the acquisition of Freedom, which could result in changes to the parameters of the transaction; the impacts of the significant and recurring investments that will be required in our new Freedom, Videotron mobile virtual network operator and other markets for development and expansion and to compete effectively with the incumbent local exchange carriers and other current or potential competitors in these markets, including the fact that the post acquisition our business will continue to face the same risks that we currently face, but will also face increased risks relating to new geographies and markets; disruptions to the network through which we provide our digital television, Internet access, mobile and wireline telephony and over-the-top video services, and our ability to protect such services from piracy, unauthorized access or other security breaches; labour disputes or strikes; service interruptions resulting from equipment breakdown, network failure, the threat of natural disasters, epidemics, pandemics and other public health crises and political instability in some countries;  the impact of emergency measures implemented by various levels of government; changes in our ability to obtain services and equipment critical to our operations; changes in laws and regulations, or in their interpretations, which could result, among other things, in the loss (or reduction in value) of our licenses or markets or in an increase in competition, compliance costs or capital expenditures; our substantial indebtedness, the tightening of credit markets, and the restrictions on our business imposed by the terms of our debt; and interest rate fluctuations that affect a portion of our interest payment requirements on long-term debt. We caution you that the above list of cautionary statements is not exhaustive. These and other factors could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements included in this press release, and you are encouraged to read “Item 3. Key Information – Risk Factors” as well as statements located elsewhere in Videotron’s annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023, and Videotron’s Quarterly Report under Form 6-K for the three-month period ended March 31, 2024, including Management’s Discussion and Analysis and unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements included therein for further details and descriptions of these and other factors. Each of these forward-looking statements speaks only as of the date of this press release. We will not update these statements unless applicable securities laws require us to do so.

SOURCE Videotron Ltd.

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

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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 

View original content:https://www.prweb.com/releases/big-frog-custom-t-shirts–more-ends-2024-with-steady-growth-and-major-innovations-302351517.html

SOURCE Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More

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

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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/

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/new-website-helps-consumers-navigate-an-important-battery-choice-for-their-ev-or-hybrid-vehicle-302351570.html

SOURCE East Penn Manufacturing, Co.

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Get Covered Welcomes Dharmesh Shroff as VP of Engineering

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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

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/get-covered-welcomes-dharmesh-shroff-as-vp-of-engineering-302349793.html

SOURCE Get Covered

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