Tech Council of Australia and techUK sign landmark partnership
The Tech Council of Australia (TCA) and techUK have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a significant milestone in technology industry collaboration between Australia and the United Kingdom. Signed during London Tech Week at the UK Department for Business and Trade in the Old Admiralty Building and […]
The Genius Myth: A Curious History of a Dangerous Idea
By Helen Lewis Unsettling, amusing, and prescient; a much-needed audit of a consuming idea. This is a study of how the measurement and indulgence of “genius” has changed over time. Over the past couple of centuries, the boundaries of genius have been used to justify eugenics, consolidate power, and excuse […]
Your Life Is Manufactured: How We Make Things, Why It Matters and How We Can Do It Better
By Tim Minshall We live in a manufactured world. Unless you are floating naked through space, you are right now in direct contact with multiple manufactured products. How often do we stop to think: where do the things we buy actually come from? There exists a nearly invisible, awe-inspiring global […]
R.PACK Software Suite: The next step in efficiency and control
RECIF Technologies has launched R.PACK, the next-generation software suite designed for RECIF sorters. With an emphasis on usability, efficiency, and innovation, R.PACK introduces a suite of advanced features aimed at simplifying the management of wafer sorting equipment. Built for Speed, Designed for Precision R.PACK enhances operational efficiency for users of […]
Rugged devices drive innovation in harsh industrial environments
Manufacturing environments expose both equipment and processes to constant stress. Heat, vibration, airborne particulates, moisture, and noise all affect how people work and how well operations run. Even in these tough conditions, manufacturers push to improve speed, accuracy and system responsiveness. Rugged devices support these efforts by reducing delays, improving […]
Open source technology in the age of AI
With more organisations deploying gen AI across business functions, a new survey finds that leaders are increasingly turning to open source AI solutions to build out their tech stacks. Open source software has long been a critical part of the technology ecosystem. Commercial software typically requires a commercial license or subscription […]
Trillions to be unlocked in sustainable investment opportunities in Asia
Asia’s robust economic fundamentals present significant opportunities for scaling financing into sustainable development projects, even amid geopolitical headwinds and trade tensions, said policy and business leaders at the inaugural Hong Kong edition of Unlocking capital for sustainability. Against the backdrop of increasing global polarisation and accelerating climate change, Asia […]
Trump’s tariff: A test to Malaysia’s trade resilience
Dr Paul Anthony Maria Das is a Senior Lecturer for the School of Accounting and Finance at Taylor’s Business School, Faculty of Business and Law, Taylor’s University. Taylor’s Business School is the leading private business school in Southeast Asia for Business and Management Studies based on the 2025 QS World […]
Smarter growth, lower risk: Rethinking how new factories are built
A tailored, thoughtful combination of cutting-edge technologies, stronger contracting skills, and deep supply chain capabilities can get a new factory up and running—without costly delays. Today’s environment is giving manufacturers even more reasons to reassess their footprint strategies. For some, localisation of production may now seem increasingly attractive—particularly amid rising volatility […]
Zenno Astronautics and ANA Trading rollout superconducting space technologies in Japan
New Zealand-headquartered Zenno Astronautics (Zenno), the space superconductor company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with ANA Trading to deploy Zenno’s superconducting technologies for space applications in the Japanese market. ANA Trading is a member of ANA Group, Japan’s leading airline group. With the slogan “Next Stop, Space”, ANA Group has […]
Countries successfully growing their manufacturing – and what they are doing right
From Brazil to Singapore, here’s how six countries are rethinking manufacturing. From the climate crisis and geopolitical headwinds to next-generation technologies, a series of complex challenges are rewriting the rulebook for global value chains. Against this backdrop, what are manufacturers and supply chain companies doing to ensure their operations are […]
Masdar City’s Net-Zero Model Sets Sustainability Benchmark, but AI Holds Key for Aging Cities, Experts Claim
A new white paper from Masdar City highlights the UAE’s leadership in net-zero urban development. Energy experts say that net-zero strategies could also be applied to most cities worldwide, even when the biggest challenge is in retrofitting old existing buildings. Built as a purpose-driven net-zero city, Masdar eliminates the need […]
From Survive to Thrive: FMCG Strategies for Growth and Profitability in 2025
Chris Foord, Partner, Argon & Co New Zealand As we look forward to 2025 the outlook for business and NZ are improving. Many businesses in 2024 were focused on the “survive till 2025” mindset, controlling costs and avoiding discretionary spend. Very few though forgot about the consumer/customer and the need to continue to serve, surprise and delight with excellent product, service and pricing. Most FMCG businesses will be looking to return to better margin positions in 2025 and indications are favourable that this is achievable. The inflation beast has been tamed, so interest rates have fallen and are predicted to drop further (albeit not by a huge amount) through 2025. Business sentiment is on the rebound. Consumer confidence is at its highest level for two years, which in turn improves business confidence. Whilst the signs are positive, navigating from the survival mindset to a thrive mindset doesn’t happen without intent. So, what are some helpful tips to consider as FMCG businesses transition into what should be a period of growth, and importantly how to create value and embed sustainable profitability. Here are some areas to consider and explore: Align operations to execute your business strategy Plan to drive profitable growth Unlock, deliver and celebrate quick wins Create and embed a continuous improvement culture AI: Proof of Value Align operations to execute your business strategy Operations is where the rubber hits the road for your business strategy. Are your operational teams involved in the key decisions as you launch new products, drive innovation, review range, pricing and promotional plans? If not, they should be. They operationalise strategy, plans and tactics into reality. Get them onboard early and you will realise value faster and more effectively. Plan to drive profitable growth Continue your focus on productivity. 2024 taught most to drive efficiency […]