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Veralto Acquires TraceGains

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Expands Ability to Help Ensure Safety, Traceability and Compliance in the Food and Beverage Industry, Aligns with Veralto’s Commitment to Safeguarding Water, Food and Essential Goods

WALTHAM, Mass., Oct. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Veralto Corporation (NYSE: VLTO) (the “Company”), a global leader in essential water and product quality solutions dedicated to Safeguarding the World’s Most Vital Resources™, announced that it has acquired the holding company that owns TraceGains for a purchase price of $350 million (subject to customary post-closing adjustments).

TraceGains is a leading provider of cloud-based software solutions that enable connected data and digital workflow management to help consumer brands meet increasingly stringent compliance and reporting regulations for food and beverage safety and traceability. Its solutions enable consumer brands to efficiently track ingredient inputs, monitor supplier quality and develop new products with greater safety and increased velocity. 

TraceGains is complementary to the Company’s Product Quality and Innovation (“PQI”) segment, specifically, its Esko-branded digital workflow solutions for packaging and label design. Synergies with Esko’s global customer base, direct sales channel, and the application of the Veralto Enterprise System represent key value creation levers the Company believes will accelerate TraceGains’ growth, expand its market presence, and improve its operating efficiency. 

“We believe the transition to digital workflow solutions in the food and beverage industry is poised for strong growth over the next decade. The acquisition of TraceGains, in combination with our Esko business, strategically expands our digital offering and provides us the opportunity to deliver greater value to consumer brands as they digitize critical workflows with connected data across new product development, compliance and packaging,” said Jennifer L. Honeycutt, Veralto’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “TraceGains’ purpose-built solutions, focused on increasing food safety, are complementary to our PQI product portfolio and squarely aligned with our purpose — Safeguarding the World’s Most Vital Resources™. And with a high level of recurring revenue, robust core sales growth and attractive gross margins, TraceGains strengthens the financial profile of our PQI segment. We are excited to welcome TraceGains associates to Veralto.”

TraceGains’ Chief Executive Officer, Gary Nowacki, said “We are proud of the networked ecosystem TraceGains has built for the food and beverage industry and the tremendous growth we have delivered. We believe joining Veralto and partnering with its Esko business creates a powerful combination of two brands with deep expertise in digital workstream solutions for consumer brands. Furthermore, it enhances TraceGains’ ability to more rapidly expand industry use of our digital solutions that help customers increase transparency to ingredient inputs for food and beverage safety, speed up innovation of new recipes and significantly reduce time-to-market for new products.”

In 2024, TraceGains is expected to deliver just over $30 million in sales, with more than 95% of sales on a recurring basis, and a gross margin of approximately 80%. Since the beginning of 2022, TraceGains’ sales have grown at an average rate of greater than 20% on a year-over-year basis.

The acquisition was funded with cash on hand and is expected to deliver a double-digit return on invested capital, exceeding the Company’s weighted average cost of capital, in year 6.

Veralto’s management team will discuss this acquisition in more detail during its third quarter 2024 financial results conference call on Thursday, October 24, 2024. 

ABOUT VERALTO

With annual sales of $5 billion, Veralto is a global leader in essential technology solutions with a proven track record of solving some of the most complex challenges we face as a society. Our industry-leading companies with globally recognized brands are building on a long-established legacy of innovation and customer trust to create a safer, cleaner, more vibrant future. Headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, our global team of 16,000 associates is committed to making an enduring positive impact on our world and united by a powerful purpose: Safeguarding the World’s Most Vital Resources™.

ABOUT TRACEGAINS

For over 15 years, TraceGains’ solutions have empowered food and beverage stakeholders to build more transparent, efficient and interconnected supplier networks that deliver safer, more compliant products to customers in less time. Using the power of TraceGains’ differentiated network, global brands gain digital visibility to over 550,000 ingredients and items from more than 80,000 supply chain locations which provides greater speed and control over compliance, enhances new product development and increases go-to-market velocity.

USE OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Veralto supplements its consolidated financial statements presented on a GAAP basis with certain non-GAAP financial information, to provide investors with greater insight, increase transparency and allow for a more comprehensive understanding of the information used by management in its financial and operational decision-making. References to the non-GAAP financial measure of return on invested capital refers to the gross purchase price of the acquisition divided by the net operating profit after taxes of the acquired business. The non-GAAP financial measure disclosed by Veralto in this press release should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, and the financial results prepared in accordance with GAAP and reconciliations from these results should be carefully evaluated.

TRACEGAINS FINANCIAL INFORMATION

The financial information of TraceGains provided herein is unaudited and is derived from information provided to Veralto by TraceGains’ management in conjunction with due diligence procedures, with various Veralto management adjustments also reflected. This information has not been conformed to the accounting principles (GAAP) and accounting policies followed by Veralto. Further, the definitions of performance measures of the TraceGains’ business, such as sales, gross margin and operating profit, may not align with the definition of Veralto.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements in this release, including the statements regarding TraceGains’ future financial performance, the Company’s differentiation and positioning to continue delivering sustainable, long-term shareholder value and any other statements regarding events or developments that we believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. All statements other than historical factual information are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding: projections of revenue, expenses, profit, profit margins, tax rates, tax provisions, cash flows, pension and benefit obligations and funding requirements, Veralto’s liquidity position or other financial measures; Veralto’s management’s plans and strategies for future operations, including statements relating to anticipated operating performance, cost reductions, restructuring activities, new product and service developments, competitive strengths or market position, acquisitions and the integration thereof, divestitures, spin-offs, split-offs or other distributions, strategic opportunities, securities offerings, stock repurchases, dividends and executive compensation; the effects of the separation or the distribution on Veralto’s business; growth, declines and other trends in markets Veralto sells into; new or modified laws, regulations and accounting pronouncements; future regulatory approvals and the timing thereof; outstanding claims, legal proceedings, tax audits and assessments and other contingent liabilities; future foreign currency exchange rates and fluctuations in those rates; general economic and capital markets conditions; the anticipated timing of any of the foregoing; assumptions underlying any of the foregoing; and any other statements that address events or developments that Veralto intends or believes will or may occur in the future. Additional information regarding the factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements is available in our SEC filings, including our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release and except to the extent required by applicable law, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events and developments or otherwise.

Investor Relations Contact:
Ryan Taylor
Vice President, Investor Relations
investors@veralto.com

Media Relations Contact:
Steve Field
Vice President, Communications
steve.field@veralto.com

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SOURCE Veralto

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2025 Consumer Texting Behavior Report: Consumers Demand SMS Notifications and Conversations

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Consumers embrace SMS Marketing like never before, with 86% opting in and expectations for instant, tailored communication soaring.

SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — EZ Texting, the leading text marketing platform for businesses of all sizes, released the 2025 Consumer Texting Behavior Report today. Now in its fourth year, the report underscores a remarkable trend: with a staggering 98% open rate, SMS has evolved from a communication tool to the cornerstone of audience engagement, driving immediate and meaningful interactions.

EZ Texting’s 2025 Consumer Survey results reveal consumers embrace SMS marketing like never before, with 86% opting in.

“Consumers are clear about their preferences: they want businesses to communicate with them through SMS,” said Punit Shah, Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer. “From promotional offers to providing customer support, customers now prefer SMS for its speed, delivery, and convenience above all other forms of communication, including social and email. Businesses that react to this trend will find themselves with positive customer engagement, and those that don’t are at risk of missing customer needs. Texting is no longer just a nice-to-have, it is now a must-have communication channel.”

Consumers Expect Texting for Every Business Need

The 2025 report reveals growing consumer reliance on SMS for appointment reminders, promotional updates, and customer support. Among the most striking findings:

86% of consumers now opt in for business texts, a 20% increase since 2021.79% of consumers are more likely to purchase when subscribed, increasing 21% from 2024.52% of consumers text businesses more often, a 31% increase over 2023.

SMS Marketing Drives Action & Builds Loyalty

Consumers are increasingly turning to SMS as their go-to communication channel with brands. Highlights include:

71% of consumers subscribe to texts without needing a prior purchase.47% share feedback via SMS, rising from 35% in 2024.63% of consumers text more overall, with 52% texting businesses, compared to 31% last year.

Consumers Demand Speed & Personalization

Consumer expectations for responsiveness are higher than ever:

57% expect businesses to respond within 15 minutes.67% show increased interest in products after receiving a text, an increase of 21% from 2024.49% purchase more often after receiving a text, underscoring the power of timely communication.

Survey Methodology

EZ Texting conducted the 2025 Consumer Texting Behavior Report to analyze consumer attitudes and behaviors related to SMS marketing.

Survey Timeframe: Nov. 1–Nov. 15, 2024Participants: 1,074 qualified respondents with personal mobile phones

About EZ Texting
Since 2004, EZ Texting has provided 230,000+ growing businesses and organizations with an effortless way to start text marketing—and powerful features and integrations to keep conversations going.

CONTACT:
Marco Raye
Content Marketing Manager
Email: mraye@eztexting.com

Journalists & Media
pr@eztexting.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/2025-consumer-texting-behavior-report-consumers-demand-sms-notifications-and-conversations-302346459.html

SOURCE EZ Texting

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Kotak Life launches ‘Kavya’: AI-powered HR Assistant aimed at enhancing Employee Engagement and Experience

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MUMBAI, India, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Company Ltd (“Kotak Life”) has unveiled Kavya, an advanced HR virtual assistant powered by generative AI, designed to enhance employee experience and engagement.

Kavya serves as a trusted companion to Kotak Life’s strong workforce, ensuring that employees are heard confidentially while fostering open communication and connection throughout their professional journey. By engaging in meaningful conversations, Kavya aims to support individual growth and strengthen Kotak Life’s commitment to creating a progressive and supportive work environment.

Ruchira Bhardwaja, Chief Human Resources Officer, Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Limited, said, “Kavya marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to employee development and satisfaction. With this AI-powered solution, we’re not just modernising HR services – we’re building a more empathetic, accessible and responsive workplace where every employee feels valued and heard.”

Key Features of Kavya 

Confidentiality: Kavya ensures that all interactions and shared information are kept strictly confidential, prioritising employee privacy at all times.Dedicated Support: For new joiners to seasoned professionals, Kavya is there at every milestone in the journey at Kotak Life, offering assistance and guidance.Action: Employees can share feedback and concerns with Kavya, who actively works to implement meaningful changes.Open Communication: Kavya encourages employees to communicate freely, without hesitation, providing a judgment-free space for open dialogue.

About Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Company Ltd.

Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Company Limited (Kotak Life) is a 100% owned subsidiary of Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (Kotak). Kotak Life provides world-class insurance products with high customer empathy. Its product suite leverages the combined prowess of protection and long term savings. Kotak Life is one of the fastest growing insurance companies in India with 322 branches across 152 cities and has covered more than 5 crore active lives as on 31st December 2024.

For further information, please contact:
Shazin Motorwala, 
Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Company Ltd.,
+91 98332 40021, 
Shazin.Motorwala@kotak.com

Jimit Harde,
Kotak Mahindra Bank,
+91 99300 29645,
Jimit.Harde@kotak.com

Meenakshi Verma, 
The Good Edge,
+91 99875 68227, 
meenakshi@thegoodedge.com

 

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/kotak-life-launches-kavya-ai-powered-hr-assistant-aimed-at-enhancing-employee-engagement-and-experience-302346904.html

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FusionIQ Celebrates a Breakthrough Year in 2024, Wins Trifecta of Industry Awards

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Wealthtech provider also appoints Sloan Shanahan as Chief Revenue Officer to drive further growth and innovation

WOBURN, Mass., Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — FusionIQ, a leader in the delivery of cloud-based wealth management solutions, announced today that it achieved significant milestones in 2024, further establishing itself as a key innovator in wealthtech. This marks a pivotal moment in the company’s mission to make digital wealth transformation easy for financial advisors and institutions.

From industry awards to new partnerships and thought leadership to significant product advances, FusionIQ has emerged as a leader in the democratization of wealth as financial advisors and institutions look to fintechs to keep pace with the rapid acceleration of digital transformation in financial services.

Among the Notable Achievements in 2024:

Pre-Integrated Platforms: Leveraging the power of the cloud-native FusionIQ One platform, FusionIQ launched a suite of pre-integrated platforms to make digital wealth transformation easy, fast, and cost-effective for financial advisors and institutions. These platforms included FIQ Journey, the first dual journey platform for financial institutions integrating hybrid digital advice and self-directed investing in a single seamless investor experience, and the groundbreaking FIQ Wallet, the first digital wealth management solution for wallet companies, a significant leap forward in the convergence of wealth management and payment.Strategic Partnerships: The company announced key partnerships with leading financial institutions, including groundbreaking collaborations with OnPoint Community Credit Union and Kinecta Federal Credit Union, expanding access to digital investment services for OnPoint’s 581,000-plus members in Oregon and Southwest Washington, and Kinecta’s more than 270,000 members in California, New York, New Jersey, and Florida.Recognition in Banking Innovation: FusionIQ set the standard for innovation among wealthtech providers in 2024, winning Best-as-a-Service Solution for Wealth Management at the prestigious 2024 Banking Tech Awards USA in May, Best Wealth Management Solution by Vendor (Overall) at the Global BankTech Awards 2024 in September, and Best Digital Solution Provider – WealthTech – Personalization and User Experience at the Banking Tech Awards 2024 in December.SOC 2 Type II Compliance: FusionIQ successfully achieved SOC 2 Type II compliance, demonstrating its commitment to cybersecurity leadership and reinforcing trust with its growing client base.Thought Leadership: On topics ranging from cybersecurity to digital transformation in wealth management, FusionIQ advanced industry knowledge by contributing to 20 thought leadership articles, op-eds, and industry roundtables, establishing the company as a trusted voice in wealth management innovation.

With these achievements, FusionIQ continues to redefine the wealth management experience for institutions and investors across the industry.

Strengthening the C-Suite For Future Growth

In the second half of the year, FusionIQ made strategic leadership appointments to drive its continued growth trajectory. Eric Noll was appointed Chief Executive Officer after successfully completing a significant new fundraising round in October. That same month, Pete Chiccino was named Chief Operating Officer.

In December, Sloan Shanahan joined the executive team as Chief Revenue Officer (CRO), bringing a wealth of expertise in strategic partnerships, sales enablement, and market expansion. Ms. Shanahan has a proven track record of building and leading high-performing teams across top-tier consulting and technology organizations. Her vision aligns perfectly with FusionIQ’s goal of scaling operations and delivering innovative solutions to empower financial institutions in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

“I’m thrilled to join FusionIQ at this pivotal time,” she said. “The company’s dedication to redefining wealth management through innovation and collaboration is inspiring. I look forward to working with the team to drive measurable business outcomes and forge enduring partnerships across the industry.”

Looking Ahead to 2025

Building on its momentum, FusionIQ is poised to accelerate its growth trajectory in 2025. With its strengthened leadership team and proven track record of success, FusionIQ is well-positioned to lead the next wave of digital transformation in wealth management.

About FusionIQ

FusionIQ makes it easy for financial advisors and institutions to be digital wealth leaders. The cloud-native all-in-one FusionIQ One platform has four modules – Hybrid Digital Advice, Self-Directed Investing, Digital Marketplace, and finTAMP – making digital transformation hassle-free. FusionIQ One powers a range of easy-to-implement products, including FIQ Freedom, FIQ Journey, FIQ Market One, FIQ TAMP+, and FIQ Wallet, making it easy for credit unions, banks, broker-dealers, family offices, RIAs, wallet providers, and asset managers to scale, delivering the digital experience clients and advisors want and the seamless workflows and process automations they need for organic growth. With white-label integrations complete in as little as six weeks, it’s easy to see why FusionIQ One’s integrated multi-custodian platform is quickly becoming the digital solution of choice for advisors and institutions. To learn more, please visit: https://fusioniq.io

Media Contact
Elizabeth Shim
Haven Tower Group
424 317 4861
eshim@haventower.com 

 

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fusioniq-celebrates-a-breakthrough-year-in-2024-wins-trifecta-of-industry-awards-302345687.html

SOURCE FusionIQ

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