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The Tour Championship returns to East Lake, bringing golf’s elite to Atlanta for the season’s defining week. The city welcomes the world’s best for four days that decide an entire year. Dates are set, storylines are rich, and expectations keep rising. East Lake offers a classic stage with modern refinements.

Fans will see a decisive test without gimmicks. The result will crown a champion and close a compelling campaign. The atmosphere promises focus, pride, and a distinct Atlanta energy that fits this moment. The finish belongs here, and the spotlight only grows brighter.

East Lake’s Championship Profile Is Tournament Ready

East Lake stands five miles from downtown and has shaped American golf history. The club hosts again from Aug. 21 to 24, a familiar anchor for the finale.

The course plays to par 71 with tournament yardage listed at 7,440. Subtle restoration work preserved the Ross spirit and sharpened shot values. Recent tweaks lengthened select holes and elevated strategic choices across the routing.

Local coverage noted the shift back to par 71 from 70 for championship play. That detail matches the event’s intent to reward control and precision. The setting suits a finish that must feel earned and emphatic.

Path to the FedEx Cup and the Stakes In Play

The journey runs through Memphis, then Maryland, before Atlanta decides everything. The FedEx St. Jude narrowed the season’s best to 50. The BMW trims again to the final 30 who reach East Lake.

Those players will enter the finale with season-long bonuses already in motion. The Tour confirmed a $100 million bonus fund distributed in staged payments. A share already went to the top ten after the Wyndham finish. Additional distributions follow deeper into the postseason framework.

That structure rewards full-season excellence while spotlighting the finale. It also balances volatility now that scores start even in Atlanta. The pathway, the payments, and the pressure create a complete postseason.

Format Changes Focus the Competition

This year’s event removes the staggered start and returns to pure stroke play. All 30 qualifiers begin at even par and chase the same target.

PGA Tour leadership framed the move as a fan-driven adjustment. “Our Fan Forward Initiative has helped us evaluate each part of the PGA Tour season,” commissioner Jay Monahan said, adding that the announcement marks “an important first step in the evolution of our postseason.”

Players echoed the goal of clarity and fairness. Scottie Scheffler called the switch “a more straight-up format” that “brings out the best competition.” The winner after 72 holes captures the FedEx Cup and its privileges.

Storylines That May Define the Finale

The field will include established winners, steady climbers, and timely hot hands. With scores level on Thursday, momentum will matter from the first swing.

Emerging Contenders With Momentum

Players like Cameron Young bring urgency to the finale. He is fresh off his first PGA Tour win at the Wyndham Championship. Young has momentum and confidence through his ball‑striking that cannot be ignored.

J.J. Spaun also enters with rhythm. He claimed the U.S. Open and followed it with a runner-up at the Players Championship, crediting “mental resilience” for his breakthrough.

Veterans Chasing Another Title

On the other end, established figures like Scottie Scheffler remain central. He leads the world and recently added his third and fourth majors to his name, offering a commanding platform in any stroke‑play setup.

Rory McIlroy also headlines the veteran pack. His win at The Masters completed a career Grand Slam and brought the kind of experience and temperament that East Lake rewards.

Broadcast Reach and Event Logistics for Fans

The championship sits on a national platform across the week. Coverage spans network windows, cable analysis, and streaming access.

On-site organizers lean into reliable operations that support large crowds. Wayfinding, concessions, and transport are central to the plan. The course footprint channels spectators toward impactful vantage points. East Lake’s finishing stretch concentrates late-round drama near grandstands. Volunteers and staff align tee times with efficient traffic flow.

Beyond the physical event, fans have more resources than ever to stay connected, from interactive scoring apps to curated highlight reels. Many broadcasters pair live coverage with segments dedicated to the latest PGA news, giving viewers context on form, rankings, and season-long narratives that shape the championship.

Fan Engagement Beyond the Ropes

For spectators on site, the championship delivers more than just what unfolds on the fairways. Hospitality zones, merchandise stands, and interactive experiences bring the event to life in new ways. Fans can follow every group on massive leaderboards and track scoring trends from multiple vantage points.

Those watching remotely enjoy an equally immersive experience. Live broadcasts now pair crisp visuals with in-depth data analysis, while social platforms offer behind-the-scenes glimpses and real-time commentary.

With the rise of legal sports betting in many regions, golf tournaments have embraced a broader conversation around wagering. Coverage often highlights popular markets such as outright winners, top-five finishes, PGA parlay odds, head-to-head matchups, and round-by-round scoring props. This blends the drama of live play with the strategy of predicting outcomes across different parts of the field.

Economic Lift and Community Resonance

Marquee sports bring commerce, visibility, and repeat visitation. Hotels fill, restaurants buzz, and vendors benefit from steady foot traffic.

Corporate partners activate suites and community programs during tournament week. The city’s tourism voice points to global broadcast impressions that linger. Neighborhood initiatives tied to the club elevate the event’s purpose. Key areas of impact include:

• Increased hotel occupancy and dining revenue,
• Boost in local vendor sales,
• Corporate sponsorship activations,
• Community programs tied to East Lake

East Lake’s legacy includes investment that reaches beyond the ropes. The tournament aligns prestige with place-based impact year after year. That blend strengthens loyalty among fans and residents alike with civic confidence.

A Finish That Fits the City and the Stage

This finale marries heritage and modern sport in a single venue. East Lake offers history and a layout tuned for today’s game. The refined format centers pure competition. The calendar places Atlanta at the heart of a decisive month. The champion will lift the FedEx Cup after four earned rounds.

The city will then own another chapter in a proud run of hosts. The week should feel focused, fair, and unmistakably big time.

Media Contact

James Clifford
j.clifford@Imperium-comms.com

Progressive jackpot games have long captured the imagination of casino players worldwide. These games combine the excitement of traditional slots and table games with the possibility of winning life-changing sums of money.

In recent years, the popularity of progressive jackpots has surged, fueled by technological innovation, wider accessibility through online casinos, and the appeal of ever-growing prize pools.

Understanding Progressive Jackpot Games

A progressive jackpot works differently from a standard casino game. Instead of a fixed prize, the jackpot increases each time a player places a bet. A small portion of each wager contributes to the total pool, allowing the jackpot to climb until someone eventually hits the winning combination.

Depending on the game, progressive jackpots can be local—linked to a single machine or site—or networked, with multiple casinos pooling contributions to create multi-million-dollar prizes. This system allows jackpots to grow rapidly, often reaching astronomical amounts.

For example, popular online slot games such as Mega Moolah and Mega Fortune have awarded single wins worth tens of millions of dollars, cementing their reputation as “millionaire makers.”

The Rise of Online Casinos and Digital Growth

The growth of progressive jackpots is closely tied to the rise of online casinos. In the past, only land-based slot machines offered progressive jackpots, and prize pools were limited to the volume of players at one venue. With the shift online, progressive jackpots could now be linked across networks of casinos, vastly increasing both the number of participants and the size of the jackpots.

Today, players from different countries can contribute to the same progressive pool, meaning jackpots grow faster than ever before. The digital era has also enabled more transparency and accessibility. Players can see jackpot amounts rise in real time and choose games based on the size of the potential payout. This visibility fuels excitement and draws in more participants, creating a cycle of growth that sustains itself.

Game Variety and Appeal

While progressive jackpots are most commonly associated with slot machines, their reach has expanded into other casino games. Progressive versions of poker, roulette, and even blackjack now exist, giving players a wider variety of options to chase big wins.

For instance, progressive Caribbean Stud Poker often offers jackpots in the millions, rewarding players who hit a rare hand like a royal flush. This diversity has helped broaden the audience, attracting not just slot enthusiasts but also fans of traditional table games.

Why Progressive Jackpots Continue to Grow

There are several reasons why progressive jackpot games continue to expand in popularity and size.

First, the psychological appeal of chasing a life-changing win is undeniable. The mere possibility of turning a small wager into a multi-million-dollar prize creates excitement and keeps players coming back.

Second, advances in technology have made these games more engaging. High-quality graphics, immersive themes, and interactive features make progressive jackpots more entertaining than ever. Many games are designed with storylines, bonus rounds, and special symbols, which add layers of excitement beyond the jackpot itself.

Finally, marketing and promotions by online casinos play a huge role. Casinos often highlight the latest jackpot winners, showcasing stories of ordinary people becoming millionaires overnight. This publicity attracts new players eager to test their luck.

Record-Breaking Wins

Progressive jackpots have made headlines with record-breaking payouts that rival lottery prizes. For example, Microgaming’s Mega Moolah holds the record for one of the largest online slot wins, awarding a staggering €19 million to a lucky player.

These huge wins generate media attention and reinforce the appeal of progressive games. Each time a new record is set, it creates renewed interest and draws in waves of new players hoping to be the next big winner.

The Future of Progressive Jackpot Games

Looking ahead, progressive jackpots are expected to grow even further as new technologies such as mobile gaming, blockchain, and virtual reality continue to reshape the casino industry.

Mobile devices already account for a large share of casino play, meaning more people have access to progressive games anytime, anywhere. Blockchain technology could introduce provably fair systems and transparent jackpot tracking, while virtual reality casinos may create immersive environments where players can chase jackpots in entirely new ways. Additionally, with global player networks expanding, jackpots are likely to grow at faster rates, leading to even more frequent multi-million-dollar payouts.

Conclusion

Progressive jackpot games have evolved from simple slot machines in physical casinos to global, networked games capable of delivering life-changing prizes. Their growth has been fueled by the rise of online gambling, technological innovation, and the timeless allure of striking it rich with a single spin or hand.

As the industry continues to expand and adapt to new technologies, progressive jackpots are likely to remain one of the most popular and exciting features in the gaming world. For players, the dream of becoming an instant millionaire ensures these games will never lose their appeal.

Media Contact

James Clifford
j.clifford@Imperium-comms.com

Leading Chinese herbal tea maker Guangzhou Wanglaoji Health Industry Co.'s WALOVI — ranked No. 1 in global herbal beverage sales for five consecutive years — officially launched its international brand in the heart of New York City on Aug. 22. Introducing its innovative “Iced Chinese Style” concept, the company unveiled a four-flavor, four-color canned product line that quickly made a striking cultural presence on the streets.

Watch WALOVI's New York City launch video on YouTube.

This marked a strategic transformation for WALOVI — from its deep-rooted Chinese heritage to a bold global expression.

Against the backdrop of the global plant-based beverage market surpassing $100 billion (U.S.), the launch of WALOVI’s international canned line stands as a visual declaration of Eastern wellness philosophy. Ye Jizeng, deputy general manager of Guangzhou Wanglaoji Health Industry Co., stated: “WALOVI has always been both a guardian and pioneer of Eastern health wisdom.”

The enthusiastic response from the New York market affirms the foresight of this strategic move. From NBA star Stephon Marbury’s spontaneous endorsement, to food truck vendors calling it “the perfect match for spicy food,” and non-Asian consumers expressing surprise at the herbal aftertaste, it is clear that the principles of Eastern wellness are now resonating far beyond their traditional cultural boundaries.

Huaqing Huang, chairman of the board of the Chinese American Hotel Association and a longtime New York resident, was particularly moved by WALOVI’s global debut: “Seeing a Chinese brand in Times Square fills me with pride as a Chinese American.”

His sentiment echoes the voices of many Chinese living in the U.S. One customer, who purchased several cases of WALOVI at a local supermarket, shared: “In the summer, we always serve WALOVI when hosting guests — whether it’s for BBQ or hot pot. I even recommend it to my American friends.”

As health becomes the world’s common language, WALOVI is writing a new chapter at global cultural crossroads like New York — blending a century-old formula with contemporary innovation. This is more than just a brand going global. As New York City Council Member Christopher Marte remarked: “New York could very well become WALOVI’s second home. I’m confident it will gain popularity here.”

Through every can of its natural herbal beverage, WALOVI is delivering the essence of Eastern wellness to every corner of the world. It is no longer just a drink — it is a lifestyle advocate, a cultural ambassador, and a leader in wellness values.

When Gen Z consumers around the globe snap selfies with the brand’s vibrant, colorful cans, they’re not just enjoying a refreshing drink — they’re embracing a natural, herbal way of life. This marks WALOVI’s transformation from a best-selling beverage into a true cultural icon.

It also stands as one of the most vivid examples of Chinese brand globalization — helping the world fall in love with the taste of China, and more importantly, understand the culture behind it.

About Guangzhou Wanglaoji Great Health Industry Co.

Founded in 1828, Guangzhou Wanglaoji Great Health Industry Co., Ltd., is a pioneer of herbal tea with a rich heritage and a strong global reputation. It is a subsidiary of Guangzhou Pharmaceuticals Corporation, a Fortune Global 500 company and a leading state-owned enterprise in Guangzhou. With a team of over 10,000 employees, 11 subsidiaries, and production bases in Ya'an, Meizhou, Nansha, and Lanzhou, the company holds a 70% market share in the herbal tea industry, generating annual sales exceeding 20 billion yuan.

In 2023, the company unveiled its new brand identity, WALOVI, marking an exciting new phase in its global expansion and mission to deliver a refreshing, stylish, and delightful beverage experience and inspiring the world to fall in love with healthy, natural plant-based drinks from China.

For more information, visit www.wljhealth.com.

Media Contact

Yingshi Chen
xiangmei@wljhealth.com

Still tossing and turning through sweaty nights? You’re not alone — overheating is one of the top reasons people can’t stay asleep. The new SweetNight CoolNest™ Mattress solves this with breakthrough cooling technology that keeps you up to 8 degrees cooler. It also provides five-zone ergonomic support for healthier rest. And at just $500, CoolNest brings luxury-level comfort to more households than ever before.

Cooling System: The Best Cooling Mattress of 2025

Unlike traditional mattresses that trap heat, the CoolNest is built with the CoolNest System — a multi-layer approach to cooling that works from the surface down:

• 3D-knitted cooling cover: With thousands of tiny ventilation pores, airflow is boosted by 35%, keeping the mattress fresh and breathable all night. In simple terms, it’s a soft, airy cover that helps heat escape, so you don’t wake up sweaty.
• PCMflux™ high-resilience foam: Infused with phase-change materials (PCM), this smart foam adapts in real time to your body temperature. It absorbs heat when you’re warm and releases it when you’re cool, keeping you balanced for up to 8 hours.
• Gel-infused memory foam: With 30% more cooling gel, evenly distributed for maximum efficiency, this layer cushions pressure points while drawing heat away — offering both comfort and coolness at once.

Together, these layers create a refreshing, cool-to-the-touch surface with 3× better airflow than conventional foams

5-Zone Ergo Design: An Ergonomic Mattress for Back Pain

CoolNest isn’t just about cooling — the CoolNest also is certified by the American Chiropractic Association. The group says it focuses on “products that are of the highest quality and have a chiropractic-related benefit for consumers and doctors of chiropractic.”

The 5-Zone Ergo Support system targets key areas of the body:

• Shoulders and legs – Gentle cushioning
• Lumbar region – Firm support to maintain spinal alignment
• Hips – Adaptive contouring to prevent sinking
• Full body – Balanced relief from head to feet

The result? Less back pain, improved posture, and deeper, restorative sleep. It’s not just a cooling mattress — it’s also one of the best ergonomic mattresses for back pain relief.

Who It’s For

CoolNest is built for:

• Hot sleepers who struggle with night sweats
• Back and side sleepers needing full-body support
• Back pain sufferers seeking pressure relief
• Couples who want motion isolation for undisturbed rest
• Budget-conscious families looking for premium sleep at an honest price

Affordable Luxury: The Best Value Cooling Mattress

At just $500, CoolNest offers the same cooling and ergonomic benefits as premium $2,000 mattresses. It’s certified safe (OEKO-TEX and CertiPUR-US) and backed by a 10-year warranty, making it one of the most cost-effective options on the market.

“With CoolNest, we’re not just selling a mattress — we’re offering a healthier, more refreshing way to sleep,” said SweetNight's CEO. “Hot sleepers, couples, and families finally have a professional-grade solution that keeps them cool and supported, all night long.”

Customer-First Benefits

• Risk-free 100-night trial
• Free nationwide shipping, mattress-in-a-box convenience

CoolNest is now available nationwide at sweetnight.com, Amazon, Walmart, Wayfair, and Home Depot — delivering affordable luxury sleep to every home.

About SweetNight

Founded in 2011 as an affordable mattress company, SweetNight has grown into a leading innovator in memory foam and hybrid sleep solutions. Through continuous research, development and collaboration with sleep experts, the company has focused on one mission: creating products that truly fit each sleeper. SweetNight is dedicated to delivering comfort, support and innovation at an accessible price point. Its latest advancement combines cooling technology, ergonomic design and luxury-level comfort, making high-tech sleep affordable for everyone. For more information, visit www.sweetnight.com.

Media Contact

Jenelyn Mainar
support@sweetnight.com

The Global Kratom Coalition (GKC) today commended the Orange County Board of Supervisors and specifically Supervisor Janet Nguyen for introducing an ordinance to regulate the sale, distribution, and possession of kratom within Orange County.

The ordinance establishes commonsense measures designed to protect consumers while maintaining access to natural leaf kratom for responsible adult use. Key provisions include:

• A minimum age requirement of 21 for kratom purchase,
• Prohibition of marketing or sales to minors, and
• Strict limits on 7-hydroxymitragynine content, banning synthetically manipulated products containing unnaturally high levels of 7-OH.

The last provision is particularly significant, as it effectively removes dangerous, synthetic, concentrated 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) opioid products from store shelves, protecting consumers from highly potent and addictive substances.

The GKC notes that this ordinance aligns with federal and state public health initiatives. On July 29, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced its intention to schedule concentrated synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine as a controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. Following the FDA’s announcement, the state of Florida enacted similar measures to restrict these products, which are often falsely marketed as kratom.

"We applaud Supervisor Nguyen and the Orange County Board of Supervisors for taking proactive steps to protect consumers,” said Matthew Lowe, Executive Director of the Global Kratom Coalition. “This ordinance ensures that natural kratom remains accessible to responsible adults while keeping dangerous concentrated synthetic 7-OH products off the shelves. We urge other municipalities in California and across the U.S. to consider similar measures to safeguard public health."

The Global Kratom Coalition remains committed to supporting policies that distinguish natural leaf kratom from synthetic, concentrated opioid derivatives, ensuring access to safe products while promoting responsible use.

About Global Kratom Coalition

The Global Kratom Coalition is an alliance of kratom consumers, experts, and industry leaders dedicated to protecting access to kratom while advancing scientific research, driving consumer education, and developing robust regulations to protect consumers. For more information, visit globalkratomcoalition.org.

Media Contact

Patrick George
info@globalkratomcoalition.org
+1 916-202-1982

Strategikon, a leader in clinical trial outsourcing and vendor management solutions, has announced the launch of Clinical Maestro® 5.0, a major upgrade designed to help sponsors and CROs make faster, smarter outsourcing decisions.

This release introduces Maestro AI, an intelligent companion that turns static documents into instant insights — decoding files, summarizing vendor performance, and pulling historical context to cut hours of manual work.

Maestro AI streamlines RFP due diligence and vendor governance: answering questions on proposals/comparisons, summarizing vendor responses and evaluation surveys, and guiding RFP/RFI content creation using templates and industry standards.

A recent industry survey found that over 70% of outsourcing professionals cite fragmented data and slow access to vendor information as top productivity barriers. Clinical Maestro 5.0 addresses this with five powerful advancements:

• AI-powered vendor intelligence – Ask natural language questions and get answers that can intelligently cross-reference sourcing and vendor governance information from across the platform.
• Rate card compliance detection – Automatically flag discrepancies between proposals and negotiated/preferred rate cards, preventing errors and aiding due diligence.
• Third-party costs – Have transparency over the third-party vendors involved in a proposal and avoid the pitfall of labeling everything as "pass-through," which leads to more predictable budgets and reveals hidden costs.
• Change order simplification – Decode complex change orders quickly, improving decision speed by integrated reporting and variance analysis
• New control, approval, and access features for sourcing that provide compliance and security for clinical RFP processes.

“With Clinical Maestro 5.0, we’re embedding intelligence directly into the outsourcing workflow,” said Anca Copaescu, CEO of Strategikon. “Our AI-powered tools turn hours of data digging into instant, actionable insight — something the industry has needed for years.”

Experience Clinical Maestro 5.0

• Live webinar: Sept. 9, 2025 – "Decoding the Complexity of CRO Change Orders"
• DFARM Conference: Sept. 16, 2025 – Strategikon nominated for the DFARM Idol Innovation Award
• Book a demo: Schedule a personalized session at strategikon.com

About Strategikon

Strategikon is dedicated to reducing costs and accelerating the market readiness of medical innovations through tailored, cloud-based solutions for clinical trial planning, outsourcing, and vendor management. Our flagship platforms, Clinical Maestro® and VISION®, replace antiquated manual processes with streamlined, end-to-end management tools designed to enhance operational efficiency while mitigating regulatory risks. For more information, visit strategikon.com.

Media Contact

Ema Hafner
ehafner@strategikonpharma.com

Terraton, a full-stack biochar platform scaling carbon dioxide removal (CDR) in emerging markets, today announced it has raised $11.5 million in seed funding. The round was co-led by Lowercarbon Capital and Gigascale Capital. Participation from leading angel investors included Jeff Dean, Bret Taylor, Pete Koomen, Lars Rasmussen, John Lilly, Tom Stocky, Tim Rann, Ryan Aytay, Matt Portman and Stephanie Hannon. Additional strategic investment came from ANA HOLDINGS INC.'s ANA Future Frontier Fund L.P. and East Japan Railway Company's TAKANAWA GATEWAY Global Co-Benefits Fund L.P. (the general partner of both funds is Global Brain Corporation, a Japanese venture capital firm). The funding will accelerate development and deployment of Terraton’s vertically integrated software platform for biochar production and help expand the company’s generation of high-integrity carbon credits.

Biochar accounts for the majority of carbon removal credits delivered to date and is one of the most scalable, proven methods of durable carbon removal. In 2024 alone, it enabled over 250,000 tonnes of carbon removal, outpacing other approaches thanks to its low cost and co-benefits. For agricultural operations in emerging markets, biochar converts low-value crop waste into stable carbon that improves soil health and generates new income through verified carbon credits. Farmers in these regions face shrinking margins from climate impacts and rising input costs. Biochar helps offset these challenges by turning waste into a valuable resource. However, high upfront costs, operational complexity and limited market access continue to impede broader adoption.

With Terraton, agribusiness operators can get access to financing, technology and the market they need to participate in high-integrity carbon removal, with low upfront investment. This pragmatic approach combines off-the-shelf hardware with proprietary software and systems to quickly scale reliable biochar facilities. Terraton’s first two projects, Three Mountains Cocoa in Ghana has preliminary approval by Puro.earth and EcoFix, a nut processor in Kenya, is under review with Isometric. The two are expected to remove over 20,000 tons of CO₂ annually while benefiting thousands of smallholder farmers through waste payments and improved soil health.

“We’re bridging the divide between high-demand biochar carbon credits and the agribusinesses who produce them, making it easier to bring these valuable credits onto the voluntary carbon market,” said Kevin Gibbs, CEO of Terraton. “By removing upfront costs and complexity, Terraton’s full-stack platform empowers these businesses to diversify revenue streams while meeting growing market demand. This funding will accelerate our ability to scale impact for both farmers and the carbon removal economy.”

Terraton also announced that Kate Maher, a distinguished professor of Earth system science at Stanford University, has joined the company as its first scientific advisor. Professor Maher is a noted expert on biochar, soil science and climate systems. Her expertise will guide Terraton toward achieving the highest scientific rigor as it moves toward full-scale commercialization.

"Scaling biochar gives agricultural producers a new revenue stream while capturing carbon, and Terraton is uniquely positioned to connect these producers to global carbon markets,” said Mike Schroepfer, founder of Gigascale Capital. Led by an exceptional second-time founding team, Terraton brings deep technical expertise, global agricultural sourcing experience and a proven track record building scaled businesses."

In a further vote of confidence, Terraset, a nonprofit climate fund that catalyzes early-stage carbon removal through philanthropic capital, has committed to a six-figure carbon credit pre-purchase from the Three Mountains Cocoa project. The pre-purchase accelerates project commissioning while signaling early demand from a trusted, mission-aligned buyer.

About Terraton

Terraton is accelerating one of the most proven solutions in carbon removal: biochar. Its full-stack platform equips agribusiness operators in emerging markets to launch and run profitable biochar businesses by combining software, hardware, financing and access to global carbon buyers. Founded in 2024 by entrepreneurs with successful exits to Salesforce and IDT Corporation, and with deep experience in global agricultural supply chains through Dandelion Chocolate, Terraton is building carbon removal that is regenerative, equitable and scientifically rigorous. Learn more at terraton.ai.

Media Contact

Patrick Mahoney
press@terraton.ai

American Kratom Association (AKA) today commended Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio Board of Pharmacy for their decision to take more time to carefully evaluate the proposed emergency scheduling of all kratom compounds.

“The Governor and Board of Pharmacy made the right call in pausing before taking sweeping action that would have harmed thousands of Ohio consumers who responsibly use kratom,” said Mac Haddow, senior fellow on public policy for the American Kratom Association. “We applaud their commitment to thoughtful consideration and welcome the opportunity to work together on a balanced policy.”

The AKA emphasized that its advocacy is aligned with the recent comments of HHS Secretary Kennedy and FDA Commissioner Makary, who have made clear that the real public health danger comes from 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) — a manipulated designer opioid that does not occur in meaningful amounts in the natural kratom plant.

The Association reiterated its support for:

• Scheduling of 7-OH and other manipulated synthetics that pose a serious risk to consumers.
• Consumer protection regulations to assure that kratom products in Ohio are safely formulated, properly labeled, and subject to strict age restrictions.
• Maintaining consumer access to natural kratom products that have been safely used in the United States for decades.

“Kratom consumers in Ohio and across the country want safe access to products they can trust,” Haddow said. “By focusing on removing dangerous synthetics while regulating natural kratom responsibly, Ohio can set a strong example for other states to follow.”

American Kratom Association expressed its commitment to working with Governor DeWine, the Ohio Board of Pharmacy, and Ohio lawmakers to implement a science-based regulatory framework that both protects consumers and ensures access to safe kratom products.

About American Kratom Association (AKA)

American Kratom Association (AKA) is a consumer-based, nonprofit organization, focused on furthering the latest science as guidance for kratom public policy. AKA works to give a voice to millions of Americans by fighting to protect their rights to access safe and natural kratom. For more information, visit americankratom.org and learn more at kratomanswers.org.

Media Contact

Mac Haddow
press@americankratom.org

about-face, the makeup brand founded by Ashley Frangipane, singer and self-taught makeup artist (professionally known as Halsey), announced its UK retail expansion into leading Space NK stores and on spacenk.com on Aug. 26.

“I’m beyond excited to share that about-face is launching at Space NK!” said Halsey. “Makeup has always been my second language — a way to express the parts of myself I can’t put into words. That’s exactly what about-face is built on: giving boundary-breaking creatives innovative, high-performance products at an accessible price so they can express themselves freely. Seeing our products at Space NK, a destination for discovery and imagination, truly feels like a dream collaboration come to life”

about-face is a high-performance, vegan and clean brand that celebrates artistry, inclusivity, and self-expression. Space NK is the ultimate curator of more than 100 of the most in-demand and highly innovative beauty brands, and the go-to destination for worldwide beauty discovery.

“Loyal UK fans have been calling for greater access to our products and launching with Space NK gives about-face a nationwide presence at the beauty destination for color,” said brand CEO Francesca Raminella. “about-face offers experimental make-up artistry to all and Space NK’s reputation for selective curation of unique, founder-led brands makes this partnership the perfect match for us.”

Shannon Monteith, category director for fragrance and makeup at Space NK, adds, “We’re thrilled to welcome about-face to Space NK. Its bold, expressive approach to beauty perfectly complements our curated makeup offering, and we’re excited for our customers to discover the brand’s artistry and innovation."

The most coveted products from the about-face range are now available at select Space NK locations (139 individual products) and online (202 individual products) at www.spacenk.com.

For more information, visit aboutface.com or follow @aboutfacebeauty on Instagram, TikTok, and other social media platforms.

Media Contact

D. Marquardt
dm@brandsymmetry.co

Out of home (OOH) advertising revenue grew 3% in the second quarter of 2025, reaching $2.86 billion, according to the Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA). The Q2 performance boosted OOH year-to-date (YTD) growth to 2.6%.

“OOH mirrors the cultural and social moments that shape how people spend their time,” said Anna Bager, President and CEO, OAAA. “Whether it’s on a global stage like the World Cup, national brand campaigns, or in the center of a local community, OOH is where brands show up to connect with audiences at scale. The growth we’re seeing reflects more than revenue, it shows that advertisers trust and rely on OOH to deliver attention, relevance, and impact at the moments that matter most.”

Spending from tech and direct-to-consumer brands remained a powerful growth driver in Q2, spanning categories from streaming and e-commerce to AI-driven software and services. The surge reflects not only ongoing investments from consumer tech and streaming platforms but also the expanding role of AI in driving new engagement opportunities.

The figures point to key revenue trends and category growth areas in the quarter.

Digital OOH Drives Q2 Growth

Digital OOH, which accounted for 36% of quarterly sales, increased 9.2% from a year ago.

Transit and Key Categories Gain in Q2

The Transit category generated the greatest growth against Q2 2024, increasing by 8.9%.

Financial Services (+32.9%), Communications (+30.5%), Insurance & Real Estate (+13.8%), and Local Services & Amusements (+10.4%) were among the strongest performing industries in Q2.

The top 10 OOH product categories in volume for Q2 were:

• Legal Services
• Hospitals, Clinics & Medical Centers
• Consumer Banking
• Domestic Hotels & Resorts
• Local Government
• Colleges & Universities
• Quick Serve Restaurants
• Architects, Contractors, Engineers
• Computer Software (excluding games and education)
• Chain Food Stores & Supermarkets

Six of the 10 product categories experienced growth, including (in order of greatest increase): Consumer Banking, Legal Services, Architects, Contractors, & Engineers, Computer Software, Domestic Hotels & Resorts, and Hospitals, Clinics & Medical Centers.

Top Brands Increasing Spend

Ranked in order of OOH spending, the top 10 advertisers in Q2 were Morgan & Morgan Attorneys, Apple, McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, Verizon, Disney, Universal Pictures, Indeed, T-Mobile, and Comcast.

Among the top 100 OOH advertisers, 65% increased their OOH spend from Q2 2024. Brands more than doubling their spend included FIFA, Rocket Mortgage, Geico, Mastercard, and Kia.

Tech and DTC Brands Expand Presence

Over one-quarter (27) of the top 100 OOH spenders were technology or direct-to-consumer brands. Leading advertisers included Apple, Verizon, Progressive, Amazon, HBO, Turo, and Netflix.

Live Events Continue to Amplify Demand 

Major live events continued to drive OOH spending momentum in Q2. FIFA invested more than $5 million in OOH during the quarter to promote the FIFA Club World Cup. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, global advertisers are increasingly turning to OOH to capture the attention of fans during shared live moments.

OAAA issues full industry pro forma revenue estimates that include, but are not limited to, Miller Kaplan and MediaRadar (which is not adjusted to reflect changes in data sources), and member company affidavits. Revenue estimates include digital and static billboards, street furniture, transit, place-based, and cinema advertising.

For more information about specific category spend, please contact Steve Nicklin at snicklin@oaaa.org or (202) 833-5566.

About Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA)

The Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA) is the national trade association for the entire out of home (OOH) advertising industry. OAAA represents over 850 members, including leading media companies, advertisers, agencies, ad-tech providers, and suppliers. OOH media includes billboards, street furniture, transit, place-based media, and digital formats (DOOH) across every sector of the channel. OAAA is the unifying voice for the industry, the authoritative thought leader, and the passionate advocate for advancing OOH advertising in the United States. The legislative unit of OAAA advocates for the responsible growth of OOH with federal, state, and local governments. OAAA-member media companies donate over $500 million annually in public service advertising. Founded in 1891, OAAA is headquartered in Washington, DC, with offices in New York City. For more information, visit oaaa.org.

Media Contact

Cassady Nordeen
cassady@purposenorthamerica.com

Emeril Lagasse Foundation has announced its third annual Aarón y Amigos — a two-night celebration of culinary excellence and Latino culture from Sept. 26 to 27, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona. Presented by Cayman Jack, this signature fundraising weekend benefits the Aarón Sánchez Impact Fund, a program of Emeril Lagasse Foundation, that provides culinary arts scholarships, food access and nutrition education for individuals passionate about uplifting the lives of Latinos.

Held during Hispanic Heritage Month, Aarón y Amigos shines a spotlight on the power of food and culture to bring people together and create meaningful change. The weekend begins Friday, Sept. 26, with an intimate VIP dinner hosted by Chefs Aarón Sánchez and Beau MacMillan at Tell Your Friends, Scottsdale’s premier speakeasy. Capacity is limited, and admission is reserved for Weekend and Sponsorship Package holders.

The celebration continues on Saturday, Sept. 27, at Tía Carmen at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge. Chef Aarón Sánchez will be joined by his “amigos” from across the country — including celebrity chefs Amanda Freitag (New York, NY), Angelo Sosa (Phoenix, AZ), Rick Moonen (Las Vegas, NV), Brian Landry (New Orleans, LA), James Porter (Prescott, AZ), Cory Oppold (Scottsdale, AZ) and Angel Aug (Phoenix, AZ). Guests will enjoy a curated tasting menu, an open bar featuring Cayman Jack and premium spirits and wines, live music, and both silent and live auctions — all in support of expanding opportunity and access for individuals passionate about uplifting the lives of Latinos.

“When we invest in young people’s passions and their basic needs, we create real change,” said Brian Kish, President of Emeril Lagasse Foundation. “The Aarón Sánchez Impact Fund does just that — offering tools, support, and opportunities that help young people grow stronger, healthier, and more confident in every part of their lives.”

Created by Chef Aarón Sánchez in partnership with Emeril Lagasse Foundation, the Aarón Sánchez Impact Fund removes barriers and opens doors for young people by providing scholarships and mentorship, and grant funding to organizations committed to nutrition education and equitable food access. Since its inception, the Fund has invested more than $1.6 million in scholarships for aspiring culinary leaders and expanded nutrition education and food access for Latino communities.

“Food has always been a way that I honor my Latino heritage, and it’s also the perfect vehicle for helping others,” said Chef Aarón Sánchez. “This event brings together some of my closest friends and favorite chefs to share that spirit of generosity and to invest in the next generation. Our youth are our most valuable resource!”

Aarón y Amigos is made possible thanks to the support of presenting sponsor Cayman Jack, as well as Aristocrat Gaming, Food & Beverage Magazine and Entravision. Tickets, weekend packages and sponsorships are available now at aaronsanchezimpactfund.com/amigos25.

For more information on Emeril Lagasse Foundation and its programs, visit emeril.org, and follow the Foundation on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About Emeril Lagasse Foundation

Founded in 2002 by Chef Emeril Lagasse and his wife Alden, Emeril Lagasse Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity headquartered in New Orleans. The Foundation’s mission is to create opportunities to inspire, mentor and enable youth to reach their full potential. Since its inception, Emeril Lagasse Foundation has granted more than $22 million to children’s charities to support culinary, nutrition, and arts programs. The Foundation accomplishes this through three programs. The Community Grants program provides programmatic and capital support to nonprofit organizations across the nation. The signature program, Emeril’s Culinary Garden & Teaching Kitchen, is a national education initiative created to enrich the lives of elementary and middle school children through a fun, fresh perspective on food. The Aarón Sánchez Impact Fund provides culinary arts education and human services programming for Latino youth. To learn more about the Foundation and its beneficiaries, visit emeril.org, or follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram.

Media Contact

Ellen Rose
ellen@trio-solutions.com
+1 404-583-8497

The United Kingdom Kava Coalition (UKKC) has officially launched, beginning with a cultural gathering in Hull to connect with the city’s Pacific Island community.

The event brought together Tongan and Fijian rugby players, who shared kava with UKKC members. Former Premiership player Charlie Beech also joined, voicing his support for protecting Pacific Island heritage and ensuring players can enjoy kava together after matches.

Kava has been consumed safely across the Pacific Islands for over 3,000 years. Despite its cultural and social importance, restrictions introduced in 2002 led to a European ban. Scientific reviews have since found those concerns to be unfounded, yet the UK has not revisited its approach since leaving the EU.

The UKKC is working with Pacific Island governments and diplomatic missions to secure legal recognition of kava in the UK. Attendees included Dr. Simon Gellar, Director of UKKC; Mike Salem, UKKC Kava Advocate; and Douglas La Rose, Executive Director of Kava Coalition.

“This is their cultural heritage,” said La Rose. “To celebrate kava openly in the UK is a milestone, not just for the coalition, but for the Pacific communities we serve.”

Viliami Lolohea, First Secretary at the Tonga High Commission in the UK and diplomatic spokesperson, stated:

"Recognising kava in the UK is both an act of respect and a step toward deeper partnership. It shows that the UK government values the cultural traditions of Pacific Islanders while also strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Tonga, our Pacific neighbours, and the UK as Commonwealth partners.”

The UK is home to more than 12,400 Pacific Islanders, including over 6,700 Fijians, with around 1,500 serving in the British Army. The UKKC will work closely with the High Commissions of Fiji and Tonga and plans to engage with representatives of Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu to expand its reach.

Beyond cultural recognition, kava presents a Commonwealth trade and economic opportunity. For Pacific nations such as Fiji, Tonga, and Vanuatu, kava is a vital export industry. Legal recognition in the UK would not only strengthen community ties but also create sustainable economic links between Britain and its Pacific partners, deepening Commonwealth connections through both heritage and trade.

About United Kingdom Kava Coalition (UKKC)

United Kingdom Kava Coalition (UKKC) works to protect and promote the cultural, social, and economic significance of kava for Pacific Island communities in the UK. Through advocacy, cultural engagement, and government outreach, UKKC aims to secure legal and fair access to kava as a beverage for all who value it.

About Kava Coalition

Kava Coalition is an alliance of kava consumers, experts, and industry leaders committed to advancing kava education, advocacy, and choice. The Kava Coalition aims to empower informed decisions about kava, promoting responsible consumption while understanding the importance of preserving kava’s history and cultural heritage. For more information, visit kavacoalition.org.

Media Contact

Patrick George
info@kavacoalition.org
+1 916-202-1982

From cutting-edge gaming platforms and efficient digital tax services to performance-driven marketing agencies, StartupMafia has identified 10 companies that are reshaping their respective fields.

By focusing on practical, scalable solutions, they are not only addressing real-world challenges but also setting the stage for long-term growth and transformation. These firms are tapping into emerging trends in technology and business, from the rise of immersive gaming experiences to the shift towards remote working solutions. Below is a closer look at the companies that are leading the charge in defining the future of technology.

HTTP (HighwayToTop) is a performance-driven marketing agency based in Ukraine. With a team of over 150 specialists, HTTP focuses on providing businesses with data-driven solutions to improve their digital presence. By prioritizing transparent KPIs and measurable results, HTTP helps clients scale their operations both locally and internationally. The agency’s dedication to delivering consistent results has made it a trusted partner for businesses seeking high ROI from their digital marketing efforts.

Spectrum is an RPC infrastructure provider powering the backbone of blockchain applications. Handling over one billion RPC requests per day across 175+ supported networks, Spectrum ensures fast, reliable access for wallets, decentralized exchanges, NFT marketplaces, and analytics platforms. Unlike many cloud-based providers, it operates a globally distributed network of bare-metal servers, giving direct control over uptime, latency, and performance. With enterprise-grade security, load balancing, and fault tolerance, Spectrum is becoming a key enabler of scalable, multi-chain access for developers and institutions alike.

KIWIPI is a prominent manufacturer of ARM-based hardware solutions, specializing in Rockchip platforms. The company focuses on designing and manufacturing customized single-board computers and tablets, offering end-to-end development and technical support for clients. KIWIPI’s flexible solutions help businesses in sectors like education, healthcare, and retail produce high-performance, cost-effective devices quickly. By adapting to the fast-paced tech environment, KIWIPI supports businesses in bringing competitive, cutting-edge products to market.

IKOL provides an all-in-one platform that streamlines operations for small and medium-sized businesses. Its suite of tools includes website creation, CRM, invoicing, booking, and team management, designed to enhance operational efficiency. The platform’s AI-powered website builder allows businesses to create professional websites in seconds, while built-in features like online booking and AI chat enable better customer interaction. IKOL removes the need for extensive technical resources, allowing businesses to focus on growth while enhancing their digital presence.

UAMASTER is a digital agency known for its performance-first approach to marketing. The agency has completed over 8,000 projects in 65 countries, specializing in paid advertising, SEO, and data analytics. By combining strategy with analytics, UAMASTER helps businesses achieve measurable growth and enhanced brand presence. Its ability to deliver high-impact, data-backed marketing campaigns has made it one of the world’s top 15 agencies, trusted by clients looking to succeed in competitive markets.

Cinema8 empowers businesses to create interactive video content that engages viewers in new ways. The platform allows users to add features like clickable CTAs, quizzes, and lead forms to their videos, enhancing viewer interaction. With powerful analytics such as heatmaps and viewer tracking, Cinema8 helps businesses understand audience behavior and optimize content strategies for better engagement. The platform’s ability to offer complete branding control, privacy safeguards, and monetization options makes it a valuable tool for marketers.

Tips GG provides sports bettors with insights and predictions across a range of sports, from football and basketball to esports. The platform aggregates tips from over 1,000 sources, using its proprietary formula to identify high-value bets. By offering both novice and advanced bettors access to data-driven insights, Tips GG helps them make more informed decisions. Its subscription model also offers exclusive Golden and Silver Bets, giving users a competitive edge in the betting world.

Funded Trader Markets (FTM) offers a unique opportunity for traders to access capital through flexible evaluation and instant funding programs. Known for its fast withdrawals and transparent rules, FTM provides traders with the tools to prove their skills and gain funding without significant upfront capital. This trader-first approach has made FTM a key player in the prop trading industry, helping individuals achieve financial success while minimizing the financial risk typically associated with trading.

Fortune Coins has quickly become a leader in the social casino space, offering a platform for free-to-play slots and sweepstakes-style games. As the top social casino in the U.S. and Canada, it has millions of active players, providing an inclusive and risk-free environment for users to enjoy traditional casino-style gaming. Fortune Coins combines daily bonuses and engaging promotions, encouraging regular interaction without the need for monetary investment, making it an appealing choice for a wide range of players.

Metaspins is developing a new approach to online gaming that emphasizes interactivity and user experience. While specific details are still emerging, the company’s focus on creating highly engaging and immersive experiences has attracted significant attention from the gaming community. Metaspins aims to redefine how players interact with digital entertainment, ensuring a customizable and dynamic gaming environment that caters to individual preferences. The platform promises to raise the bar for online gaming experiences in the years to come.

As we progress through 2025, these companies highlight the power of innovation in addressing industry challenges. From revolutionizing gaming to enhancing digital marketing strategies and simplifying tax compliance, these firms are shaping the future of business and consumer experiences. Their commitment to practical and scalable solutions is contributing to the ongoing digital transformation across various sectors.

About StartupMafia

StartupMafia is an independent media outlet covering startup trends, digital tools, and growth tactics for entrepreneurs and marketers. Known for practical reviews, expert roundups, and founder-driven insights, we help early-stage businesses stay ahead in the fast-paced tech world. For more information, visit startupmafia.eu.

Media Contact

StartupMafia Editorial Team
team@startupmafia.eu

ZX Capital Markets (ZXCM), a fast-growing global brokerage group, marks its two-year milestone with a record of strong expansion and market impact. Founded in 2023 by industry veteran Hadi Zaarour, ZXCM has quickly established itself as one of the most dynamic and client-focused firms in the forex and CFD industry.

Over the past two years, ZXCM has grown substantially — expanding its client base, scaling trading volumes, and unlocking access to new global markets. Guided by its principle of honesty and fairness and its promise of “No games, just trading,” the firm has built a reputation for transparency, professionalism, and a client-first approach.

Leadership and Vision

At the helm of ZXCM is founder and CEO Hadi Zaarour, whose nearly two decades of experience span management, operations, compliance, and senior leadership across global financial services. Before launching ZXCM, Zaarour played instrumental roles as a partner and leader in multiple brokerage ventures. With ZXCM, he set out to rebuild trust in the industry by creating a platform that prioritizes real execution, institutional-grade access, and tailored solutions for retail, professional, and institutional traders alike.

Milestones and Achievements

In its first two years, ZXCM has:

• Strengthened its global client base across key regions, particularly the Middle East.
• Expanded access to deep liquidity and diverse markets, ensuring clients trade with transparency and efficiency.
• Forged strategic industry partnerships that elevate its institutional and retail offerings.

Looking Ahead

As it enters its third year, ZXCM is poised for a new phase of strategic growth. The company is actively pursuing expanded regulatory licenses, deeper institutional connectivity, and innovative solutions tailored for both local and global markets. These initiatives reflect ZXCM’s commitment to scaling intelligently while staying true to its founding ethos of professionalism and fairness.

“We are only at the beginning of what ZXCM is set to achieve,” said Zaarour. “These first two years proved that there is demand for a brokerage built on honesty and fairness. The next chapter will be about scaling our impact, deepening our institutional roots, and continuing to innovate for our clients worldwide.”

About ZX Capital Markets (ZXCM)

ZX Capital Markets (ZXCM) is a dynamic forex and CFD brokerage founded in 2023. With a strong presence in the MENA region and expanding global markets, ZXCM offers institutional-grade solutions for forex, commodities, indices, shares, and cryptocurrencies. Our mission is to revolutionize trading experiences, providing transparency, advanced infrastructure, and localized strategies. Our commitment to setting new industry standards of trust and professionalism is evident in our rapid growth and the accolades we have received. The firm was established by Hadi Zaarour, a seasoned industry leader with nearly two decades of experience, whose focus on clarity and innovation has positioned ZXCM as one of the region’s fastest-growing financial service providers. Learn more at www.zxcm.com.

Media Contact

Ethan Stone
media@zxcm.com

The Stop Gas Station Heroin coalition is alarmed by reports from Cobb County, Georgia, where a two-year-old child became unresponsive after ingesting a small piece of a concentrated synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) opioid product known as 7Tabz tablet. According to state officials, the child required Narcan to be revived.

Initial media and police reports mistakenly referred to the product as ‘kratom’. 7Tabz, however,  is not kratom leaf or a natural botanical — it is a chemically manipulated, lab-made drug that is 13 times more potent than morphine.

The product in question, 7Tabz, is marketed as a so-called “energy pill,” with packaging and flavors that mimic candies and appeal to children, yet it contains over 15 milligram of synthetic 7-OH per serving – a serving of more than 15 times the per serving threshold set by Georgia's HB 181, which took effect January 2025. 15mg of 7OH is 166 times more 7OH than would be found in a 3 gram serving of leaf kratom. In July, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration sent a warning letter to the company behind 7Tabz for illegally marketing these products as dietary supplements. Despite this, they are still being sold in Georgia.

This incident raises serious concerns about the ongoing availability of concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products in gas stations, convenience stores, and online marketplaces. Colorfully packaged and deceptively promoted as safe, these street drugs are flooding American communities and, in this case, ended up within reach of children in a daycare setting.

Critically, the dangers of 7-OH products are well-documented: Misuse risks include tolerance, addiction, respiratory depression, and overdose. Even at doses promoted by manufacturers, the risks far exceed any reasonable threshold of safety. The fact that a toddler was exposed to such a product — and nearly lost their life — underscores the urgent need for state and federal policymakers to act.

What this case makes clear is that these products are not “wellness supplements.” They are illegal, chemically engineered opioids being misleadingly marketed and sold without FDA approval. Until concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products are removed from the market, children and families remain at risk.

To learn more about Stop Gas Station Heroin and its mission, navigate to stopgasstationheroin.com. 

About Stop Gas Station Heroin

Stop Gas Station Heroin is a national coalition that aims to educate consumers about harmful synthetic drugs and advocate for smart regulation that distinguishes between legitimate, natural botanicals and dangerous, synthetic drugs, combined with enforcement of current federal laws around unapproved drugs. To learn more, navigate to stopgasstationheroin.com.

Media Contact

Media Contact
info@stopgasstationheroin.com

In today’s hyper-digital economy, a brand’s reputation online is no longer secondary to its real-world presence, it often defines it. As businesses compete for attention in an increasingly crowded marketplace, managing how they are perceived online has become vital.

This is why industry insiders are pointing to SERPutation at Booth C92 as one of the standout destinations at Affiliate World Budapest 2025. The company, a leader in online reputation management (ORM), equips brands with the strategies and tools needed to strengthen their digital image, counter negative exposure, and build lasting trust with customers.

Why Booth C92 Matters

SERPutation doesn’t just help businesses defend their image, it helps them proactively craft a digital identity that attracts growth. In an era where one negative comment, review, or viral post can undo years of hard work, their approach provides peace of mind and measurable results. Conversely, positive online sentiment can multiply opportunities, enhancing credibility and visibility in ways no traditional marketing campaign can match.

The Social Media Factor

Platforms such as Facebook, X (Twitter), and LinkedIn have given every consumer a voice, magnifying both praise and criticism at unprecedented speed. A single post can spread to thousands within minutes. That reality makes ORM not just a protective measure but a core business strategy.

At Booth C92, SERPutation is showing attendees how businesses can take control of that narrative, whether by addressing negative mentions swiftly, promoting authentic positive stories, or ensuring that search results reflect the best of a brand’s identity.

More Than Damage Control

Conference visitors will quickly see that reputation management is no longer about reacting after the fact. SERPutation emphasizes proactive reputation building, aligning brand messaging across platforms, monitoring for emerging risks, and ensuring that potential customers find trustworthy, positive information first.

Staying Ahead of the Curve

The digital ecosystem evolves daily, and yesterday’s tactics don’t guarantee tomorrow’s success. SERPutation’s solutions highlight the importance of continuously refining ORM strategies to remain competitive, resilient, and credible in a volatile online environment.

Why Attendees Are Talking About C92

It’s clear why SERPutation’s booth at Affiliate World Budapest 2025 is being called one of the most valuable stops on the expo floor. Visitors not only gain insights into the necessity of ORM but also walk away with actionable methods to protect and grow their brand in the digital-first era.

For anyone attending AWE Budapest, Booth C92 is more than an exhibit, it’s an essential lesson in securing long-term digital success.

About SERPutation

SERPutation is a leading online reputation management and digital PR agency, helping businesses, individuals, and brands protect and grow their online presence. We specialize in removing negative content, managing reviews, boosting visibility, and optimizing search results across more than 17 languages and attending all of the biggest conferences on several continents including Affiliate World Europe and Asia, IFX Expo Europe, Asia and Latin America and other U.S. summits. For more information, visit serputation.com.

Media Contact

Jonathan Mimouni
jon@serputation.com
+972 52-221-7071

Vinat, a sister-founded brand bringing cheeky, accessible, and thoughtfully made European wines targeting millennial and late Gen-Z women, is excited to announce its rebrand as Offline Wine, a new name that better embodies its core purpose: delivering high-quality, approachable European wines designed for in-person connection.

Sarah Mack, CEO and co-founder of Offline Wine, shares, "In a world where our work and social lives are more online than ever, wine remains one of life's last true invitations to unplug and connect face-to-face. Our wines are meant for real-life connection and genuine good times enjoyed 'offline,' just as they're meant to be. This name change perfectly captures how our wine brings people together, away from screens and into the moment."

Reflecting Millennial Shifts in Wine

Offline Wine is a response to evolving wine trends, especially among millennials. This generation now buys 83% of wines priced over $15, driving a major shift toward premium and experiential choices. Industry leaders have acted: Constellation Brands recently sold off most of its under-$15 wine portfolio to align with consumer-led premiumization. As Sarah notes, "Our wines aren't just European and accessible, they're crafted for the millennial and younger generations seeking authenticity and quality."

Emily Mack, COO and co-founder of Offline Wine, added, “So many companies don’t even know who their customers are which absolutely blows my mind. Every decision we make is influenced by what we know about our target market. Everything from the wines we select to our labels and the content we post on social media is driven by our customers.”

Despite concerns about generational transition, the Silicon Valley Bank report reveals that the millennial population is nearly equal to the boomer wine enthusiasts; the industry needs to engage younger drinkers more effectively. This shift comes as traditional wine clubs and tasting rooms see signups and visitation decline, particularly as baby boomers travel less and younger consumers seek fresh, engaging experiences: "The wine industry must actively market to younger consumers—they won’t just “age into” wine," notes Corksy Insights.

Launching a New and Refreshed Rewards Program

In tandem with the rebrand, Offline Wine is unveiling a robust new rewards program to celebrate and incentivize vibrant, 'offline' connections among its customers. Offline Rewards is designed with every pour and sip in mind. The program rewards participants with 'Sips,' which can be earned through actions such as referrals, social media engagement, and purchases. These Sips can then be redeemed for discounts on future purchases. Additionally, members enjoy exclusive access to product launches, events, and promotions throughout the year. Overall, Offline Rewards aims to enhance brand loyalty and engagement.

About Offline Wine

Sister-owned wine brand Offline Wine, formerly known as Vinat, began its journey from vine to bottle in 2022 when visiting vineyards on the outskirts of Barcelona. With a love for agriculture that stems from their Wisconsin roots, Sarah and Emily Mack recognized an opportunity to create ethically sourced, high-quality, approachable wines that eliminated the wine-snob stigma. Operating out of Austin, TX, Offline is currently available at select retailers and restaurants in Texas. All three wines can be easily purchased on their newly designed website at www.offline.wine and currently ship to most U.S. states.

Media Contact

Sarah Mack
hello@offline.wine

This summer in Zadar, sporting legends and top broadcasters came together for the first-ever Sofascore Player of the Season Award Show, filmed during the Sunset Sports Festival. Now, the show has reached millions as it premiered on CBS, bringing together football stories and data-supported awards.

The show celebrated Europe’s top performers from the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, Ligue 1, and many more leagues across the world, all chosen just through Sofascore’s objective performance ratings. No votes, no popularity contests. Mohamed Salah topped the Premier League with a 7.78 rating, Raphinha led La Liga with 7.80, Mattia Zaccagni claimed Serie A’s best with 7.34, Joshua Kimmich was Bundesliga’s highest rated player with 7.91, and Achraf Hakimi shined in Ligue 1 with 7.76. Beyond this, the awards also celebrated the highest-rated player in the UEFA Champions League, the top leagues in women’s football, and many more standout performers from around the globe.

To watch the full show, visit this link.

Hosted by Kate Scott and Peter Schmeichel, and directed by Emmy Award-winner Pete Radovich, the event featured exclusive insights from football greats and top analysts including Jamie Carragher, Micah Richards, and Alessandro Del Piero. Raphinha shared his pride as both La Liga and Champions League’s top-rated player, while Luka Modrićmade history by receiving Sofascore’s first-ever Founders’ Legend Award. In the audience, big names like Dimitar Berbatov, Stipe Miočić, and Šime Vrsaljko added extra prestige to the celebration.

The Player of the Season celebration extended beyond the TV broadcast, with massive billboards in London, Liverpool, Barcelona, Munich, Rome, Frankfurt, Lyon, Metz, and other European cities, showcasing Sofascore’s award winners. From Raphinha and Alexia Putellas in Barcelona to Mohamed Salah in Liverpool and Joshua Kimmich in Munich, fans across Europe could see the season’s best right in their own cities.

The Sofascore Player of the Season award is built on objective data, not public votes. Every goal, pass, tackle or miss contributes to a rating that reflects what truly happened on the pitch. That’s why, for players and all football fans around the globe, Sofascore’s Player of the Season trophy is the only award that counts.

About Sofascore

Sofascore is a leading global sports data and analytics platform, providing real-time scores, advanced statistics, and performance insights across more than 20 sports and thousands of leagues worldwide. Known for its proprietary Sofascore Rating and intuitive visualizations like heatmaps and momentum graphs, the platform is trusted by fans, media, athletes, and scouts alike. With over 30 million downloads and users in more than 200 countries, Sofascore continues to redefine how sports data is consumed and understood. For more information, visit www.sofascore.com.

Media Contact

Anja Gadža
anja.gadza@sofascore.com

Girlfriend.ai's latest report confirms that AI girlfriends are no longer niche, they are rapidly becoming part of mainstream culture. The Girlfriend.ai Global Loneliness & AI Romance Report 2025 reveals that half of young men would rather date an AI girlfriend than risk rejection from a human partner, with millions already turning to AI companions for intimacy and emotional support.

Key Findings

• 50% of young men say they would rather date an AI girlfriend than risk rejection from a human partner
• 31% of U.S. men aged 18–30 report already chatting with AI girlfriends
• 19% of American adults overall say they have explored AI romance
• 80% of Gen Z say they would consider a virtual relationship with an AI girlfriend
• 83% of Gen Z believe they can form a deep emotional bond with AI companions

A Booming Market

The global AI companion market was valued at $28.2 billion dollars in 2024 and is projected to surpass $140 billion dollars by 2030, with some forecasts exceeding $500 billion dollars. Within this sector, the AI girlfriend app niche is expected to grow from $2.7 billion dollars in 2025 to nearly $25 billion dollars by 2034.

“AI girlfriends are no longer a niche curiosity, they are a cultural phenomenon,” said Emily Carter, chief research officer at Girlfriend.ai. “Just as dating apps transformed romance a decade ago, AI companions are defining this decade. Our research shows people are choosing AI girlfriends not to escape reality, but to meet genuine emotional needs in a safer, lower-friction way.”

Addressing the Loneliness Epidemic

The rise of AI girlfriends comes amid widespread loneliness. In the United States, nearly one in four young men report feeling lonely daily. Research indicates that AI companions can reduce feelings of isolation and provide meaningful emotional support, while experts recommend balanced use alongside human connections.

Why Girlfriend.ai

Unlike generic chatbots or manipulative virtual avatars, Girlfriend.ai focuses on emotional presence, long-term memory, and proactive companionship so relationships feel alive, consistent, and durable across time and devices.

“The stigma around having an AI girlfriend is fading quickly,” Carter added. “For Gen Z and beyond, digital love is becoming part of everyday life. The question is no longer whether AI girlfriends will go mainstream, but how quickly society will adapt to this new reality.”

About Girlfriend.ai

Girlfriend.ai is redefining digital companionship with emotionally intelligent AI designed to feel more natural and humanlike than traditional chatbots. The platform combines advanced conversational AI, adaptive memory, voice, and image interaction to create relationships that grow and evolve over time. As the market for AI-driven connection accelerates, Girlfriend.ai positions itself at the forefront of this cultural and technological shift, offering users a 24/7 companion that is supportive, responsive, and engaging. The company’s mission is to make emotionally supportive relationships accessible to everyone, establishing AI companionship as a new norm in everyday life. Learn more at girlfriend.ai.

Media Contact

Jon Davis
press@girlfriend.ai

Choosing a speech-to-text converter involves evaluating its ability to handle different speech types (accents, noise, and complex vocabulary). Key benefits of selecting a speech-to-text tool include improved productivity, accessibility, and accurate documentation, while limitations include the need for clean audio, language support restrictions, and high processing power. Consider when and where speech-to-text provides the most value, such as for transcription, real-time captioning, or accessibility. Review offline availability for situations with unreliable internet or privacy concerns. Ensure the system meets specific needs (language accuracy and handling industry-specific jargon).

1. Accuracy and Word Error Rate (WER)

Accuracy measures correctly transcribed words, while word error rate (WER) calculates errors (substitutions and deletions). The two are crucial for reliable transcriptions in legal, medical, and customer service fields. Evaluation involves comparing transcribed text to references, considering punctuation, speaker identification, and complex words. Challenges include noise, accents, unclear speech, and complex vocabulary. Best practices include using quality microphones, training on diverse samples, applying noise-canceling technology, and updating models with new terms.

2. Custom Vocabulary Support

Custom vocabulary support allows users to add specific terms or jargon, improving accuracy in specialized fields (medicine, law, and technology). Evaluation involves assessing how well the system integrates new terms and handles pronunciation variations. Challenges include managing custom terms, misidentifications, and system complexity. Best practices include frequent updates, real-world testing, and ensuring diverse training data to cover different pronunciations.

3. Advanced Features

Advanced features in speech-to-text systems include speaker diarization, real-time translation, sentiment analysis, and context-based understanding. These features increase functionality, allowing speaker differentiation and emotional tone interpretation. Evaluation involves assessing accuracy, integration, and performance in various environments. Challenges include maintaining accuracy, increased system demands, and processing delays. Best practices include real-world testing, continuous training, and regular updates to address evolving language trends.

4. Latency and Processing Type

Latency and processing type refer to the delay between speech and transcription, and the method used (real-time or batch). Latency affects user experience, notably in real-time applications like live captions. Evaluation involves assessing transcription speed, accuracy, and balancing performance with processing power. Challenges include managing high latency and optimizing speed and accuracy. Best practices involve utilizing efficient algorithms, optimizing hardware, and balancing processing resources to minimize lags.

5. Deployment Options

Deployment options refer to how speech-to-text systems are implemented (cloud-based, on-premise, or hybrid solutions). The deployment options impact functionality, scalability, and security. Evaluation requires considering cost, security, maintenance, and control. Challenges include balancing cloud flexibility with on-premise control and managing hybrid integration complexities. Best practices include assessing needs, finding the right solution, ensuring data security, and planning for long-term support.

6. Privacy and Compliance

Privacy and compliance involve protecting personal data and ensuring speech-to-text systems meet legal requirements (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, or CCPA). These factors are essential for user trust and avoiding legal issues. Evaluating privacy involves checking data storage, processing, sharing, and adherence to laws. Challenges include managing security and navigating complex regulations. Best practices include encrypting data, enforcing access controls, auditing compliance, and staying updated on evolving rules.

7. Reliability and Uptime

Reliability and uptime refer to the consistent availability of a speech-to-text system. They are crucial in critical applications where downtime causes errors. Evaluating reliability involves checking outage history, support availability, and handling peak demand. Challenges include maintaining availability during failures and scaling infrastructure. Best practices include using redundant systems, monitoring, quick response teams, and backup solutions to minimize downtime.

8. Developer Experience

Developer experience refers to how easily developers integrate and use a speech-to-text system. It is crucial for efficient development and deployment. Evaluation involves checking documentation, API availability, and integration ease. Challenges include poor documentation and complex setups. Best practices include clear documentation, robust API support, quick responses, and a flexible framework for customization.

9. Cost and Pricing Model

Cost and pricing model refers to how a speech-to-text service charges for its features. It impacts affordability and scalability. Evaluating it involves reviewing pricing tiers, pay-per-use charges, and feature alignment. Challenges include unpredictable costs, especially with pay-as-you-go models. Best practices include choosing a suitable pricing model, monitoring usage, and opting for transparent pricing to avoid unexpected charges.

10. Use Case Fit

Use case fit refers to how well a speech-to-text system meets the specific needs of an application or industry. A tailored system is more efficient and reliable. Evaluating fit involves checking language support, accuracy, real-time processing, and specialized features. Challenges include adapting to unique requirements, balancing customization, and handling varied environments. Best practices include defining requirements, selecting a scalable system, and testing in real-world scenarios.

How to Use Speech-to-Text Converter?

To use a speech-to-text converter, follow these 10 steps:

1. Choose a platform – Select a suitable speech-to-text service or application.
2. Set up an account – Register or sign in, if required.
3. Install or access the tool – Download the application or use it online.
4. Check hardware – Ensure your microphone or recording device is working properly.
5. Adjust audio settings – Configure input volume, noise suppression, and language preferences.
6. Upload or stream audio – Provide the audio file or start real-time capture.
7. Start transcription – Activate the transcription feature.
8. Review and edit output – Check and correct the generated text.
9. Save or export results – Store or export the transcription.
10. Integrate with other tools – Connect the output to other applications as needed.

How does Speech-to-Text Converter Handle Different Accents?

A speech-to-text converter adapts to different accents using diverse training datasets and models trained on regional and non-native accents. Modern systems reduce errors with acoustic modeling, phoneme mapping, and language model adaptation. Custom vocabulary and speaker adaptation fine-tune recognition for specific industries. Machine learning advancements enable accent-specific models for improved accuracy, while continuous updates expand accent coverage and improve real-time recognition.

What Languages are Supported by the Speech-to-Text Converter?

A speech-to-text converter supports major languages (e.g., English, Spanish, French, German, Mandarin, Japanese, Russian, and Arabic) with regional variants (e.g., British English, American English, and Latin American Spanish) for improved accuracy. Some platforms cover Portuguese, Italian, Korean, and Hindi, with varying performance. Incorporating dialects and less familiar languages depends on training dataset quality, market demand, and the provider's investment in language models. An online audio translator integrates speech-to-text to transcribe and translate speech, making multilingual communication more efficient.

Can a Speech-to-Text Converter Adapt to Noisy Environments?

Yes, some speech-to-text converters adapt to noisy environments using advanced noise reduction and audio preprocessing techniques. Background noise — common in call centers or outdoor settings — affects transcription accuracy if not filtered. Hardware solutions (e.g., directional microphones, noise-canceling circuits), and software enhancements (e.g., spectral subtraction and machine learning-based denoising) help improve speech clarity. Real-time audio filtering removes unwanted noise before transcription. Adaptive algorithms adjust to changing sound conditions, maintaining better accuracy in dynamic environments.

What are the Advantages of a Speech-to-Text Converter?

The advantages of a speech-to-text converter include:

• Time efficiency – Converts speech to text faster than manual typing.
• Improved accessibility – Provides real-time captions for individuals with hearing impairments.
• Improved productivity – Allows hands-free operation and multitasking.
• Accurate documentation – Makes recorded speech searchable and easily stored.
• Multilingual support – Transcribes and translates multiple languages.
• Cost reduction – Reduces reliance on human transcription services.
• Integration capability – Connects with various applications via APIs and software integrations.
• Consistency in output – Ensures standardized transcription formatting and style.
  

When to Use a Speech-to-Text Converter?

Use a speech-to-text converter to transform spoken language into written text for efficiency, accessibility, or documentation. Businesses use it for meeting transcripts, interviews, and customer service records. Content creators rely on it for converting podcasts, lectures, and videos into scripts. Accessibility services provide real-time captions for hearing-impaired individuals. Legal, medical, and academic sectors use it to document proceedings and research. Productivity tools integrate it for note-taking, voice commands, and hands-free operation, saving time and reducing typing effort.

What are the Challenges of a Speech-to-Text Converter?

The challenges of a speech-to-text converter include:

• Background noise – Interferes with distinguishing speech from other sounds.
• Accents and dialects – Variations in pronunciation reduce accuracy.
• Speech clarity – Slurred or rapid speech decreases transcription precision.
• Technical vocabulary – Errors occur with specialized terms lacking domain training.
• Language support – Limited language coverage restricts multilingual use.
• Punctuation and formatting – Inconsistent automatic punctuation and formatting.
• Speaker diarization – Difficulty differentiating between multiple speakers.
• Real-time processing – Requires significant computational resources for accuracy.
• Data privacy – Potential security and confidentiality risks with cloud services.
• Hardware limitations – Insufficient processing power affects offline performance.

Does a Speech-to-Text Converter Support Offline Operation?

Yes, some speech-to-text converters support offline operation with models like OpenAI Whisper and Mozilla DeepSpeech. Online services such as Google Cloud Speech-to-Text and Amazon Transcribe require internet access. Hybrid systems combine offline transcription with optional cloud improvements. Offline operation offers privacy and eliminates latency but requires significant computing power and has lower accuracy. Online services provide better scalability and faster processing, but depend on a stable internet connection.

Can I use the Speech-to-Text Engine for Free?

Yes, you can use the speech-to-text engine for free.

About Transkriptor

Transkriptor is an AI-powered speech-to-text and productivity platform designed to help users save time and work more efficiently. With its advanced transcription and AI note-taking capabilities, Transkriptor makes it easy to transcribe meetings, convert voice notes and memos into text, and transform video content into written notes. By combining powerful AI features with speed and convenience, Transkriptor delivers a seamless solution for professionals, students, and teams worldwide. For more information, visit transkriptor.com.

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