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BindiMaps selected by Westpac OpenAir Cinema to create most inclusive season “ever”

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SYDNEY, Feb. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Digital accessible wayfinding startup BindiMaps has been selected to help make this year’s Westpac OpenAir Cinema season “more accessible than ever” by making available its navigation app and recently-launched platform for attendees. 

They will be offered by Westpac alongside other tailored amenities, such as more accessible seating, tactile and braille signage, companion cards for those with assistance and guide dogs, and an increased availability of movies with subtitles. 

They will also be featured prominently during the premiere of Australia’s first feature-length film created by and for people with low vision and those who are blind, “TOUCH”. 

The BindiWeb” platform is an interactive online map that allows moviegoers to toggle wheelchair accessible routes and get directions within the cinema, from the comfort of their home or on their way, helping them choose the best drop off point or transport stop. 

Preemptively planning these aspects of an excursion to unfamiliar terrain can be critical for reducing anxiety and stress for moviegoers with a disability.

The BindiMaps app then offers turn-by-turn directions via audio, text and map options once they’ve arrived, with optimised audio and wheelchair directions. These directions guide users from their chosen drop off point in the Royal Botanic Gardens to the cinema entrance, and then to their actual seating section.

TOUCH tells the story of a young man and his friends who must navigate through his father’s memories to escape an experiment gone wrong, and uses the immersive power of sound to create an inclusive cinematic experience.

Its creation was driven by strong demand for more inclusive theatre experiences from Australians with a vision impairment: almost half feel most films are not inclusive for them, and over three-quarters believe adaptable technology such as audio descriptions should be more widely used, according to Mastercard research.

The praiseworthy move towards greater inclusivity by Westpac sets an important precedent for other event organisers and cinemas, according to BindiMaps.

Anna Wright, Founder and CEO at BindiMaps said: “We are excited to partner with Westpac to make their famous and much-attended OpenAir Cinema accessible to everyone. Our BindiMaps navigation app and BindiWeb platform empower individuals with disabilities to navigate the sometimes challenging cinema environment with confidence and ease, ensuring they can enjoy the magic of the movies just like everyone else. We implore other event organisers and venues to follow suit, opening up Australia’s vibrant arts and cultural scene to all Australians.”

Majella Knobel, Westpac’s Head of Access and Inclusion said: “We wanted to make sure that the needs of as many individuals as possible were considered as part of the end-to-end cinema experience. The OpenAir Cinema is in such an iconic location on the Sydney Harbour; we want everyone to have the opportunity to experience the special atmosphere. We hope that this year’s OpenAir cinema sets a new standard for accessibility and inclusion that others in the industry will strive to follow.”

TOUCH will screen at the Westpac OpenAir Cinema in the Royal Botanic Garden on Tuesday 13 February 2024, with all proceeds going to Blind Citizens Australia.

BindiMaps and Westpac are urging all Australians with disabilities and their families, as well as tech enthusiasts and everyday moviegoers, to attend the OpenAir Cinema and experience the enhanced accessibility firsthand.

Tickets can be purchased through Humanitix here.

BindiMaps (www.bindimaps.com) is a mobile navigation app that uses sophisticated navigation algorithms and a network of Bluetooth beacons and smartphone sensors to help users precisely navigate to any destination within any type of complex indoor space. It was developed by people with a vision impairment, for people with a vision impairment, to create the highest possible level of inclusivity and offers 10-20 times higher accuracy than Google’s GPS can provide for indoor locations. Its application ranges from university campuses, airports, shopping malls, hospitals, office buildings, and more. 

Anna developed the idea for BindiMaps after undergoing years of major surgery to save her own eyesight, which inspired her to create a more accessible world for people with vision impairment. She is a recognised leader in the startup ecosystem, lighting a path for non-technical founders to start and build tech companies that can change the world. It is her passion for impact that saw Anna nominated for 2019 Australian of the Year.

 

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SOURCE BindiMaps

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Festive Season Fuels Business Optimism to Multi-Year High

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The Dun & Bradstreet Business Optimism Index records an increase of 20.2% (q-o-q) for Q4 2024

MUMBAI, India, Oct. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Dun & Bradstreet, a global leader in business decisioning data and analytics, released the Composite Business Optimism Index (BOI) for Q4 2024, which stands at 94.8, 20.2% higher than Q3 2024. All the six optimism indices have shown improvement, with optimism for net sales reaching its highest level in 15 quarters. The Dun & Bradstreet Composite Business Optimism Index, which has been measuring the changing business sentiment of India Inc. since 2002, is a leading indicator for India’s overall growth, with a correlation co-efficient of around 80% with the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Highlights 

Optimism for volume of sales stands highest in 15 quarters.Optimism for net profits has improved significantly, standing at its highest level since Q1 2020.Optimism for the level of selling prices stands highest in 10 quarters.Optimism for fresh hiring of employees has improved for Q4 2024, after remaining stagnant for four consecutive quarters.The accommodation and food services sectors are the most optimistic on three out of six parameters.

Arun Singh, Global Chief Economist, Dun & Bradstreet said, “The Dun & Bradstreet Business Optimism Index is at a high level, driven by strong consumer momentum as India enters the festive season, traditionally marked by increased spending. Businesses are set to capitalize on festive demand in Q4 2024, with selling prices expected to rise by 7 percentage points. Sales sentiment has reached a 15-quarter high, with volumes rebounding to pre-pandemic levels. Despite concerns about rising costs and inflation, profitability remains robust, indicating that businesses have adapted well. However, challenges such as fluctuating energy prices, geopolitical uncertainties, high borrowing costs and supply chain disruptions persist. Nonetheless, there is optimism for employment prospects, with renewed hiring intentions reflecting confidence in the economic recovery.”

Key findings from the Q4 2024 survey

The optimism for sales volume improved by 14 percentage points, accommodation and food services are the most optimistic.The optimism for net profits improved by 11 percentage points. To this end, the wholesale and retail trade sector is the most optimistic, while the utilities sector is the least optimistic.The optimism for level of selling prices improved by 7 percentage points, accommodation and food services are the most optimistic on this parameter, while information and communication service sector is the least optimistic.The optimism for new orders increased by 14 percentage points, accommodation and food services sector is the most optimistic, while the electric, electronic and hardware manufacturing sector is the least optimistic.The optimism for inventory levels improved by 3 percentage points, mining sector is the most optimistic on this parameter, while the metal manufacturing sector is the least optimistic.The optimism for hiring of employees improved by 8 percentage points, automobiles manufacturing sector is the most optimistic, while the food, beverages and tobacco manufacturing sector is the least optimistic.

The report can be downloaded for free from the websites of Dun & Bradstreet India (http://www.dnb.co.in/)

Notes to Editors 

The Business Optimism Index (BOI) is a quarterly survey-based index designed to measure the pulse of the Indian business community across India and has served as a reliable indicator of economy. Dun & Bradstreet surveys respondents (senior management) pan India across the Manufacturing and Services sectors, covering businesses of varying scale (large, medium and small) to calculate the BOI. Respondents are asked about their expectations (in terms of increase, decrease, or no change) regarding their company’s performance (Six BOI Parameters) in the ensuing quarter over the same quarter in the previous year.

About Dun & Bradstreet:

Dun & Bradstreet, a leading global provider of business decisioning data and analytics, enables companies around the world to improve their business performance. Dun & Bradstreet’s Data Cloud fuels solutions and delivers insights that empower customers to accelerate revenue, lower cost, mitigate risk and transform their businesses. Since 1841, companies of every size have relied on Dun & Bradstreet to help them manage risk and reveal opportunity. For more information on Dun & Bradstreet, please visit www.dnb.com.

Dun & Bradstreet Information Services India Private Limited is headquartered in Mumbai and provides clients with data-driven products and technology-driven platforms to help them take faster and more accurate decisions in domains of finance, risk, compliance, information technology and marketing. Working towards Government of India’s vision of creating an Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) by supporting the Make in India initiative, Dun & Bradstreet India has a special focus on helping entrepreneurs enhance their visibility, increase their credibility, expand access to global markets, and identify potential customers & suppliers, while managing risk and opportunity.

India is also the home to Dun & Bradstreet Technology & Corporate Services LLP, which is the Global Capabilities Center (GCC) of Dun & Bradstreet supporting global technology delivery using cutting-edge technology. Located at Hyderabad, the GCC has a highly skilled workforce of over 500 employees, and focuses on enhanced productivity, economies of scale, consistent delivery processes and lower operating expenses.

Visit www.dnb.co.in for more information.

Click here for all Dun & Bradstreet India press releases.

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KONKA Showcases World’s First 110” 8K TV with Over 230,000 Backlight Zones at 136th Canton Fair

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GUANGZHOU, China, Oct. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — KONKA Group Co., Ltd. (“KONKA”; 000016.SZ), a leading technology company, is presenting products that underscore its commitment to technological advancement and excellence at the first phase of the 136th Canton Fair, a pivotal event in global trade, taking place from October 15-19.

Among the standout offerings is the KONKA 110A8 Ultra Mini AI-LED TV. This technological marvel features the highest number of backlight zones in the world, with over 230,000 zones, pushing the boundaries of MiniLED technology. Each zone offers pixel-level precision in light control, resulting in incredibly detailed picture quality. By integrating advanced AI models, the TV’s picture quality algorithm and chip technology have reached new heights, allowing for precise control of these extensive backlight zones. Additionally, it comes with a HiFi Ultra SoundBar and a powerful 94-watt JBL sound system, offering an immersive 360° surround sound experience, making it a perfect choice for an unparalleled home entertainment experience.

Another highlight is the 144Hz high-refresh OLED TV, boasting 8.3 million self-illuminating pixels and a 1,500,000:1 contrast ratio for stunning picture quality. Its quick response time and advanced sound separation deliver an unparalleled audiovisual experience, perfect for home entertainment enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the 100-inch MiniLED 809 TV offers a cinematic experience with its artistic design, eye-care technology, and superior sound, ideal for those who prioritize aesthetics and functionality.

Beyond its TV lineup, KONKA is introducing the H21 washing and drying set and the H22 all-in-one model, both designed for modern homes with intelligent, efficient, and quiet features. Also showcased is KONKA’s large-capacity dishwasher, which combines a spacious design with smart washing programs. It emphasizes energy efficiency and eco-friendliness, offering excellent cleaning while conserving resources.

KONKA’s strategic positioning in the home appliance industry underscores its success in technological innovation and product development. The company now offers a comprehensive range of products, including a wide selection of TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, freezers, air conditioners, and kitchen appliances. This approach diversifies revenue and enhances business synergy, enabling KONKA to excel in a competitive market.

International expansion has been crucial for KONKA’s growth, with its products now available in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, and beyond. Committed to creating value, KONKA invites partners and consumers to explore its innovative products, reinforcing its dedication to excellence and growth.

Official website: www.konkaglobal.com

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SOURCE KONKA Group Co., Ltd

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Chiesi launches innovation platform focused on partnership and patient care: The Impulse

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PARMA, Italy, Oct. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Chiesi Group, a research-oriented international biopharmaceutical group, is proud to announce the official launch of The Impulse, an innovation platform designed to accelerate bold ideas and meaningful partnerships in healthcare. The Impulse aims to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing patients, planet, and people today by addressing not only healthcare symptoms but also the root causes of these challenges, such as climate change and access to care.

Empowering innovation through collaboration

The Impulse is stepping in to fill the growing demand for innovative solutions that meet the real needs of patients. By creating a collaborative space for researchers, start-ups, and innovators to work together, The Impulse is driving forward-thinking healthcare solutions—from digital health advancements to sustainable patient care models—that have the potential to transform how we think about and deliver healthcare.

“We stand at a pivotal moment for the pharmaceutical industry. This is the time to further rethink traditional models and embrace bolder, patient-centric innovation. That’s why Chiesi has created The Impulse, aiming to empower those who are driven by a passion to improve the lives of others through innovation,” said Fabrizio Conicella, Vice-President Center of Open Innovation & Competence. “We know that some of the most groundbreaking ideas come from collaboration. By providing the resources, network, and support, we aim to accelerate ideas that will have a tangible impact on patients and the world around us, perfectly in line with our Company vision.”

A commitment to patients and the planet

The launch of The Impulse is particularly timely, as the healthcare industry faces increasing pressure to rethink traditional care models. With climate change and environmental sustainability now central to global health discussions, The Impulse is committed to fostering solutions that not only improve patient outcomes but also contribute to a healthier planet.

The Impulse has already begun to attract interest from key players in the life sciences, digital health, and environmental sustainability sectors, including the Karolinska Institutet, NOME and EIT-HEALTH, with many more partnerships in the pipeline.

For more information on The Impulse and how to get involved, visit https://www.chiesi.com/en/about-us/the-impulse/.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/chiesi-launches-innovation-platform-focused-on-partnership-and-patient-care-the-impulse-302279557.html

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