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MERLE NORMAN COSMETICS ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF AQUA BLISS

Merle Norman Cosmetics

Merle Norman Cosmetics announces its FIRST foray into the world of clean skincare with the introduction of NEW Aqua Bliss, a 97% natural, plant-based moisturizer that provides superior barrier protection and time-released hydration for skin that is left feeling smooth and supple. This luxuriously weightless infusion of natural oils and antioxidants melts into skin, leaving it soothed, replenished, and blissfully hydrated. Merle Norman Cosmetics ( Affiliate Link ) is in a class among few, having served beauty enthusiasts and the industry for 90 years. The brand has stayed relevant by listening and evolving, including consumer requests for clean beauty. They believe in science and base their product innovation, like this new clean category, on that trust. The brand’s new clean formulation approach will continue to evolve as new science and data is available. Merle Norman Cosmetics is committed to mindfully developing safe, results-driven products with complete ingredient transparency. Meticulously formulated with Jojoba, Soy, Olive and Vitamin E oils, Aqua Bliss helps strengthen the skin’s natural moisture barrier and prevent the water-loss that can lead to dryness, fine lines and discomfort. It also contains sugar derived Aquaxyl, which is clinically proven to provide time-released hydration and plump the skin for a visibly hydrated, softer and smoother complexion. Additionally, antioxidant-rich Lavender Flower Powder and a Gingko Biloba derivative helps calm red, visibly stressed-out skin to keep it petal soft all year round. Merle Nethercutt Norman launched her eponymous beauty empire in 1931 with two skincare game-changers. As the brand celebrates its milestone 90 th Anniversary, they continue the tradition of advanced skincare innovations like Aqua Bliss, a new quench revolution in facial care. Aqua Bliss Product Benefits · 97% Natural + Plant Based Formula · Provides superior barrier protection and time-released hydration · Smooths, plumps and soothes · Calms visibly red, irritated skin · Safe for every skin type, every day · Dermatologist-tested · Free from Fragrance, Dyes, Parabens, Gluten, Colorants, Drying Alcohol, Formaldehyde and Phthalates Aqua Bliss (SRP: $37) is available at Merle Norman Cosmetics Studios nationwide and online at www.merlenorman.com. Click here for Merle Norman Cosmetics Affiliate Link About Merle Norman Cosmetics Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc. is a prestige brand acclaimed for pioneering the “try before you buy” philosophy, as well as creating innovative and high-quality color cosmetics and skincare products that allow consumers to express their best selves. For 90 years, this iconic American brand has provided consumers the confidence to pursue their dreams, explore their ideas, and create their own version of extraordinary. Today, Merle Norman Cosmetics remains family-owned with franchise Studios located throughout the United States, Canada, and internationally. Continuously evolving and creating effective, exciting, and technologically advanced products, Merle Norman Cosmetics remains dedicated to setting trends and fulfilling the ongoing needs of diverse customers everywhere. For more information, visit www.merlenorman.com. Contact Details K3 Media Collective Brooke Hilton Brooke@K3MediaCollective.com Company Website https://www.merlenorman.com/homepage

October 19, 2021 11:55 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Innersense Organic Beauty Launches Serenity Smoothing Cream

Innersense Organic Beauty

Award-winning clean beauty brand Innersense Organic Beauty is expanding their hair care range with the new Serenity Smoothing Cream. Officially launching today, this nutrient-rich lotion can be used on all hair types and textures to achieve a smooth, flawless blowout. Key ingredients include baobab and frangipani which help lock in moisture, provide care for thermal exposure from styling tools, and strengthen strands without weighing hair down. A combination of vitamin-rich mango seed butter, avocado and coconut oils help nourish and boost hair hydration while smoothing out the cuticle to reduce frizz. The cream contains light fragrance notes of citrus floral, to help promote relaxation and create a soothing, uplifting mood. The Serenity Smoothing Cream is vegan, gluten free, non-GMO and cruelty free. The tube is made from 65% PCR and the flip top is 100% PCR The brand recently achieved its Climate Neutral Certification, to measure and offset its carbon footprint, while also reducing its emissions over time. “Our goal is to create products that are not only essential for styling but are formulated using natural ingredients that won’t damage hair or the planet,” says Greg Starkman, Founder of Innersense Organic Beauty. “We combined baobab with frangipani and nutrient rich oils to help give hair a beautiful, healthy shine.” The Serenity Smoothing Cream is available in a 6 oz size ($28) at innersensebeauty.com. About Innersense Organic Beauty Beauty professionals Greg and Joanne Starkman founded Innersense Organic Beauty to bring clean, pure and toxin free hair care to salons, stylists and consumers. The clean hair care brand’s products include shampoo, conditioner, scalp scrubs, styling and treatment products for all hair types. For more information, visit innersensebeauty.com. Contact Details BPCM Archita Patel +1 281-725-2121 archita@bpcm.com Company Website https://innersensebeauty.com/

October 19, 2021 11:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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ALLIED CORP SIGNS MAJOR SUPPLY AGREEMENT WITH US MULTI STATE OPERATOR (MSO) AND SALES AGREE-MENT FOR ALLIED’S CBD BRANDS

Allied Corp

Allied Corp. ("Allied" or the “Company”) ( OTCQB: ALID ) is pleased to announce the signing of what we believe to be another major supply agreement for the 2022 calendar year. Allied will be only providing cannabis flower after the Colombian government allows it and will provide supply only to countries where it is legal to sell into (for example, the United States only allows for THC levels to be less than 0.3%). In addition to the quantities contemplated in the October 07, 2021 press release, on October 17, 2021, Allied signed another supply contract with a US Multi State Operator for 12,000 kilograms of dried cannabis flower for the 2022 calendar year. This product will be supplied starting in January 2022 and will be the beginning of another monthly recurring supply contract. In addition to this, Allied has also signed a purchase order for its branded CBD products in the United States. Through this agreement, Allied products will be sent to retail stores within the states of California and Nevada. These products include: Tactical Relief™ Liberty CBD Tincture Tactical Relief™ Rapid Recovery Roll on Oil Tactical Relief™ Battle Balm Tactical Relief™ Fizzy Tabs Tactical Relief™ Tactical Hydration Tactical Relief™ Quick Hit Gummies Equilibrium Bio™ CBD Tincture Equilibrium Bio™ Rapid Recovery Roll on Oil Equilibrium Bio™ Athletic Rub Equilibrium Bio™ Fizzy Tabs Equilibrium Bio™ Hydration Drinks Equilibrium Bio™ Gummies MaXXa™ Skin Structure MaXXa™ Eye Recover Maxxa™ Glossy Lip Recover MaXXa™ Skin Designer MaXXa™ Vitamin Absolute MaXXa™ Absolute Recover Under the 2018 Farm Bill, the United States legalized the ability to sell CBD based natural health products. The THC threshold limit is set at 0.3%THC. All of Allied’s products are currently within the legal thresholds and within compliance of the national laws in the United States. “We are ready to provide large volumes of high quality cannabis to the international marketplace. With several supply contracts signed for the 2022 calendar year, we are ready to start shipping when Colombia allows. Allied harvests on a weekly basis and by nature of this we believe that we will be able to provide rolling supply that is harvested fresh every week. In addition to this, we are offering attractive terms to approved off take partners to offer what we believe to be a de-risked pricing structure to the sales cycle.” said Mr. Calum Hughes, CEO and Chairman of Allied Corp. About Allied Corp. - https://allied.health/ Allied Corp. is an international cannabis company with its main production center in Colombia and is one of the few companies that has exported from Colombia internationally. In preparation for the possible legalization of cannabis by the US Federal Government, Allied also has the option to purchase a US cannabis license in the US (Nevada) exercisable if such were to happen. In addition to this, Allied has three CBD-brands to market with products selling in the United States. Lastly, Allied has both Cannabinoid and psilocybin products in the pharmaceutical development track seeking pharma drug indications for depression, anxiety and PTSD. Investor Relations:ir@allied.health1-877-255-4337 Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws in Canada or the United States ( “forward-looking information”). Forward-looking information may relate to the Company’s future outlook and anticipated events, plans or results, and may include information regarding the Company’s objectives, goals, strategies, future revenue or performance and capital expenditures, and other information that is not historical information. Forward-looking information can often be identified by the use of terminology such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “expect,” “pending,” “in process,” “intend,” “estimate,” “project,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “could,” “can,” the negatives thereof, variations thereon and similar expressions. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is based on the Company’s opinions, estimates and assumptions in light of management’s experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that management currently believes are appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances. Forward looking statements in this press release include the following: that Allied is leveraging the conditions in its Colombia grow operation and future Kelowna location to support its Research and Development efforts; that Allied is making important strides forward to position itself as a leader in the medical cannabis space, that Allied intends to make a series of proposed trademark and other intellectual property protection filings, as part of the Company’s Intellectual Property and Pharma Development (IP&PD) Strategy, statements respecting the joint development, manufacturing, and the introduction of TACTICAL RELIEF™ branded products. There can be no assurance that the underlying opinions, estimates and assumptions will prove to be correct. Risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking information in this release include: the Company’s exposure to legal and regulatory risk; the effect of the legalization of adult-use cannabis in Canada and Colombia on the medical cannabis industry is unknown and may significantly and negatively affect the Company’s medical cannabis business; that the medical benefits, viability, safety, efficacy, dosing and social acceptance of cannabis are not as currently expected; that adverse changes or developments affecting the Company’s main or planned facilities may have an adverse effect on the Company; that the medical cannabis industry and market may not continue to exist or develop as anticipated or the Company may not be able to succeed in this market; risks related to completion of the greenhouse construction in Colombia, risks related to market competition; risks related to the proposed adult-use cannabis industry and market in Canada and Colombia including the Company’s ability to enter into or compete in such markets; that the Company has a limited operating history and a history of net losses and that it may not achieve or maintain profitability in the future; risks related to the Company’s current or proposed international operations; risks related to future third party strategic alliances or the expansion of currently existing relationships with third parties; that the Company may not be able to successfully identify and execute future acquisitions or dispositions or successfully manage the impacts of such transactions on its operations; risks inherent to the operation of an agricultural business; that the Company may be unable to attract, develop and retain key personnel; risks resulting from significant interruptions to the Company’s access to certain key inputs such as raw materials, electricity, water and other utilities; that the Company may be unable to transport its cannabis products to patients in a safe and efficient manner; risks related to recalls of the Company’s cannabis products or product liability or regulatory claims or actions involving the Company’s cannabis products; risks related to the Company’s reliance on pharmaceutical distributors; that the Company, or the cannabis industry more generally, may receive unfavorable publicity or become subject to negative consumer or investor perception; that certain events or developments in the cannabis industry more generally may impact the Company’s reputation or its relationships with customers or suppliers; that the Company may not be able to obtain adequate insurance coverage in respect of the risks that it faces, that the premiums for such insurance may not continue to be commercially justifiable or that there may be coverage limitations and other exclusions which may result in such insurance not being sufficient; that the Company may become subject to liability arising from fraudulent or illegal activity by its employees, contractors, consultants and others; that the Company may experience breaches of security at its facilities or losses as a result of the theft of its products; risks related to the Company’s information technology systems; that the Company may be unable to sustain its revenue growth and development; that the Company may be unable to expand its operations quickly enough to meet demand or manage its operations beyond their current scale; that the Company may be unable to secure adequate or reliable sources of necessary funding; risks related to, or associated with, the Company’s exposure to reporting requirements; risks related to conflicts of interest; risks related to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; risks related to the Company’s potential exposure to greater-than-anticipated tax liabilities; risks related to the protection and enforcement of the Company’s intellectual property rights, or the intellectual property that it licenses from others; that the Company may become subject to allegations that it or its licensors are in violation of the intellectual property rights of third parties; that the Company may not realize the full benefit of the clinical trials or studies that it participates in; that the Company may not realize the full benefit of its licenses if the licensed material has less market appeal than expected and the licenses may not be profitable; as well as any other risks that may be further described in and the risk factors discussed in the Company's continuous disclosure including its Management's Discussion and Analysis sections in its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Annual Reports on Form 10-K and Current Reports on Form 8-K filed under the Company's profile at www.sec.gov. Although management has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information in this presentation, there may be other risk factors not presently known to the Company or that the Company presently believes are not material that could also cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking information in this presentation. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers and viewers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information, which speaks only as of the date made. The forward-looking information contained in this release represents the Company’s expectations as of the date of this release or the date indicated, regardless of the time of delivery of the presentation. The Company disclaims any intention, obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities laws. Contact Details Allied Corp Investor Relations +1 877-255-4337 ir@allied.health Company Website https://allied.health/

October 19, 2021 05:55 AM Pacific Daylight Time

Pinpoint: UK startup Naurt unveils first-of-its-kind location hyper-precise tracking software that improves GPS

Naurt

Geo-location startup, Naurt, has today announced full public access to a game-changing software set to unlock the future of hyper-precise location tracking. Following a year of beta testing with a pilot group of high-profile local and international businesses and governments, Naurt has now made their first-of-its-kind software accessible to any and all businesses around the globe. The startup’s plug-and-play toolkit currently has no direct competitors and promises to deliver 45 times more accurate location data when used indoors or outdoors and across borders. Current Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology – what most people think of as GPS or SatNav – simply cannot ensure accuracy in built-up areas where even a reasonably large tree can make pinpointing an exact location impossible. Even in open spaces, industries that rely on knowing where something is in relation to something else are still using outdated technology that is good enough at best. Naurt’s software does not replace the satellite location services businesses currently use. Instead, it simply integrates seamlessly with it and fixes the problems that cause the location data to be inaccurate. Where businesses might currently be able to pinpoint a location to within around 20 metres, integrating Naurt could improve accuracy to within centimetres. Jack Maddalena, Co-founder and CEO of Naurt commented: “Naurt is making geo-location ultra precise. Standard satellite location services are no longer fit for purpose and are costing businesses and people time, money and safety. We have created the world’s first platform that is able to improve on this without the need for extra hardware. The work we are doing will be transformational for people and businesses around the world”. In a recent pilot for a large micro-mobility company, Naurt corrected location fixes by an average of 14.6 metres with a maximum correction of as much as 78 metres. Enabling their fleet with Naurt software made it possible for the company to expand into extremely built-up cities that would have previously been out of the question. There will soon be a scooter on every street corner as the micro-mobility trend builds momentum globally. However, many cities will refuse to invite these companies onto their streets if they cannot guarantee the level of safety only Naurt enablement can ensure. In practical terms, Naurt has already improved one of the largest food delivery companies in the world by 40%. Despite unprecedented growth in the last mile delivery market recently, major players still rely on location data that is miles away from accurate. Innovation has halted in similar areas such as micro-mobility, autonomous construction, drone delivery and smart city design as a result of inadequate tracking capabilities. Naurt is making waves in the micro-mobility sector, helping companies win bids through passing safety legislation and enabling them to expand into previously untouchable places. A Naurt-enabled fleet can enforce parking zones (no more scooter litter), throttle speeds in no-go zones and offer smart lane detection. Naurt has helped micro-mobility companies improve their location fixes by an average of 40% during beta testing, eliminating what is known as GNSS drift, so customers and charge teams can track scooters down to the lamp post they are leaning against. “Put simply, your on-demand food delivery service cannot accurately estimate when your pizza will arrive or guarantee that it will be hot when it does. The restaurant cannot tell how far away your driver is or whether to wait before firing up the oven. That means your driver will wait longer when they arrive at the restaurant and fit in less deliveries that evening as a result. Once your pizza is en route, you can only track its progress through vague updates like “on it’s way”, “around the corner” or “nearby” leaving you hanging out the window or loitering by the door waiting for them to get your location wrong – just like last time. But all that is about to change” added J ack Maddalena. Naurt’s mission is to unlock innovation by providing an essential enabler without which rapid progress in sectors that rely on GNSS would simply not be possible. The startup will remove a significant barrier to breakthroughs in emerging technologies and industries such as self-driving cars, automated construction, drone deliveries, last mile logistics, micro-mobility and more. Jack Maddalena said: “Naurt’s innovation enables a diverse sphere of enterprises to improve their solutions, unlock opportunities and break into new markets. We have seen the impact of our work with our customers who, through intelligent location data, are identifying revenues in ways once thought impossible. Here at Naurt, we can imagine a future where there is a new technological revolution based on location hyper-precision and we believe strongly that Naurt is the company to make this happen.” About Naurt Naurt is a location intelligence platform creating the future of geolocation mapping and tracking. Because GNSS technologies have too many limitations, Naurt's world-class team is tackling the core issue by solving problems once thought impossible. The team aspires to make the new standard tool for tracking for everyone. Naurt was founded in April 2020 in Brighton, England, by Jack Maddalena and Nicolas Slack. Jack is an entrepreneur and commercial specialist as well as the former sales director and cofounder of VRCraftworks, a company known for making one of the “10 top VR apps to download” according to The Guardian and many others publications. Nicolas Slack, Naurt CTO, is a published researcher and programmer whose vision catalysed modern acoustic-levitation, and pivoted his attention to geo-location. Under his watchful eye, geo-location technology has entered a new era of innovation! Contact Details Naurt Bilal Mahmoood +44 7714 007257 press@naurt.com Company Website https://www.naurt.com

October 19, 2021 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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KOAN CORDIALS ARE NOW AVAILABLE FOR DELIVERY THROUGHOUT CALIFORNIA

Resonate Blends, Inc

Koan, a Resonate Blends brand, is leading a new area of plant-based wellness with the direct-to-consumer launch of the world’s first cannabis cordials - non-alcoholic, single-dose, plant-derived liquids designed to help mindful consumers to find inspiration, restore balance, and improve the quality of their lives. By combining the wisdom of traditional, holistic wellness practices with cutting-edge science and technology, Koan has developed a brand-new way to harness the wide-ranging benefits of cannabis, utilizing various ratios of THC and CBD, along with botanical terpenes, adaptogens, and other plant extracts to deliver precise and consistent life-enhancing experiences. The six cordials - Calm, Balance, Play, Create, Delight, and Wonder – have the fast on-set of a tincture, the long duration of an edible, and the ease and social benefits of a beverage all in one single-dose bottle. Calm, for example, has a large concentration of CBD with low levels of THC ensuring a profoundly calming experience without getting you high. The low level of THC amplifies the benefits of natural plant extracts including Linalool—known to help treat anxiety, depression, and insomnia—Beta-Caryophyllene, an anti-inflammatory, and Limonene—a naturally-derived anti-depressive—to help ease stress and return to a comfortable and functional mind/body state. On the other extreme is Koan's Wonder formulation carefully crafted to support consumers in every way when their goal is to ponder the infinite. Wonder has higher levels of THC with low levels to CBD designed to help refine the powerful experience. Koan's other blends of Cordials enhance creativity, bring a feeling of enchantment, or unleash a feeling of energy, joy, and more. The full range of products is designed to help those using cannabis in an intentional way to find what they are looking for with precision, consistency, and refinement. “At Koan we’re mastering the art of experience. It’s more than science, it’s our passion - refining, amplifying, and calibrating cannabis so you can always find what you are looking for. We are deeply enmeshed in the science, we have two patents pending supporting our formulations, processes, and bioavailability to ensure that consumers get exactly what they expect, every time, from our products,” said Geoff Selzer, CEO and Founder. “We are delighted to partner with Grassdoor for our direct to home delivery ensuring that all of our customers can get our products whenever they choose in the most convenient, safe, discrete, and reliable fashion possible.” Koan is committed to demystifying cannabis and harnessing its impactful ingredients to create products that support intentional and mindful use as a core part of daily wellness—physical, spiritual, and most importantly, emotional. Through precision crafting, Koan invites a general sense of well-being, lean-in awareness and presence rather than the “check-out high” normally associated with most cannabis-based products. The single-dose cordials are artfully designed to be both portable and discrete, with fast-acting ingredients that allow a quick onset for a long-lasting experience of up to four hours. The delightful citrus and botanical notes of the cordials can be enjoyed directly out of the bottle or poured into any beverage or one of Koan’s signature cannabis cocktail recipes. Koan Cordials are now available for purchase directly at https://koan.life. Koan provides the option to order individual cordial three packs, or in themed bundles such as the Serenity Bundle, Engage Bundle, or the Experience Bundle. Koan has proudly partnered with Grassdoor, the premier direct-to-consumer e-commerce solution for cannabis brands in California, to allow consumers to shop Koan’s portfolio of Cordials with same-day delivery across Southern California (including Los Angeles and San Diego) and Northern California (including San Francisco, San Jose, and Oakland). Grassdoor is one of the largest end-to-end delivery solutions in cannabis, providing same-day delivery to 75% of the population of California. ABOUT RESONATE BLENDS, INC. Resonate Blends, Inc. (OTCQB:KOAN) develops Koan Cordials, meticulously formulated blends of THC, CBD, Terpenes, and Botanicals that provide a refined cannabis experience. Unlike strain-based or full-spectrum products, Koan Cordials are scientifically crafted to highlight specific cannabis characteristics, with predictable experiences and intensity allowing people to tap into specific feelings in a new, better way. ABOUT GRASSDOOR Grassdoor is the premier delivery marketplace and direct-to-consumer ecommerce platform in cannabis, providing customers same-day delivery of top brands in 45 minutes or less throughout California, including Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Ventura, San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland, and more. In addition to being the fastest licensed delivery service in the state, Grassdoor aims to be the safest, friendliest, and most reliable cannabis delivery solution worldwide. This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements we make regarding guidance relating to net income; anticipated customer onboardings; and expected operating results, such as revenue growth and earnings. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain as they are based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the Company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. In evaluating such statements, prospective investors should review carefully various risks and uncertainties identified in this release and matters set out in the Company's SEC filings. These risks and uncertainties could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Contact Details BPCM Katie Bell +1 323-655-5541 koancordials@bpcm.com Company Website https://www.resonateblends.com

October 13, 2021 08:03 AM Pacific Daylight Time

Global Energy Leader Chevron Shipping joins NAMEPA, Demonstrating its Dedication to Save Our Seas.

North American Marine Environment Protection Association

Carleen Lyden Walker, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA), announced that Chevron Shipping has joined NAMEPA as its newest corporate member. NAMEPA is proud to be partnering with Chevron Shipping in making strides to Save Our Seas and towards a cleaner future. “We are delighted that our discussions with Chevron Shipping have resulted in their decision to join NAMEPA’s efforts towards sustainability,” stated Ms. Walker. NAMEPA’s mission of preserving the marine environment and promoting sustainable marine industry best practices is aligned with Chevron Shipping’s goals. “Protecting people and the environment has always been a core value of Chevron Shipping. We are pleased to join NAMEPA and its likeminded members striving for a safer, ever-cleaner environment and marine industry,” said Mark Ross, President of Chevron Shipping. NAMEPA proudly welcomes Chevron Shipping to its global and diverse network of individuals and companies in a new partnership that will help progress towards a greener future. About Chevron Shipping: Chevron Shipping Company LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Chevron U.S.A. Inc. (NYSE: CVX). Chevron’s fleet has provided a vital link between our operations and the marketplace for more than 125 years. Today, Chevron Shipping Company is an industry leader in safely and reliably transporting crude oil, liquefied natural gas (LNG) and refined products that power the world. Learn more. The North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) is a marine industry-led organization of environmental stewards preserving the marine environment by promoting sustainable marine industry best practices and educating seafarers, students and the public about the need and strategies for protecting global ocean, lake and river resources. Visit us at: www.namepa.net Contact Details NAMEPA Carleen Lyden Walker +1 203-255-4686 executivedirector@namepa.net Company Website https://namepa.net/

October 13, 2021 10:26 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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TECH BOSSES WARN OF POTENTIAL E-COMMERCE BLACK FRIDAY AND XMAS “MELTDOWN” FOR HIGH STREET AND ONLINE RETAILERS

Credersi & ROQ

With the high street already on its knees following the pandemic, which has decimated the retail industry, both physical and online retailers will be desperately looking to their e-commerce systems to make up for lost revenues and profits this Christmas after a disastrous year. However, British tech bosses are warning of potential systems crash as we approach Black Friday, Cyber Monday and the extra demand running up to the Christmas trading period. Following the Facebook/Instagram and What’s App outage last week - as all three platforms went down for 6 hours - this has perfectly highlighted how vulnerable even the biggest tech companies are to systems failures. There is a real concern that e-commerce systems will be pushed to breaking point, with an unprecedented surge in demand from shoppers and issues in the supply chain and delivery fulfilment. The warning comes as both high street and online retailers look to maximise their revenues and profits against a backdrop of untested e-commerce technology and software. In recent times this has been melded together at breakneck speed by a remote workforce and hasn’t been sufficiently tested. This makes systems vulnerable to coding errors, traffic tsunamis, DDoS attacks, ransomware, malware attacks and DNS provider downtime which will almost certainly lead to a lack of fulfilment, late delivery and even overcharging. A massive shortage of trained quality engineers in software testing to check, test and maintain software and e-commerce systems has created the perfect storm. Retailers face an unprecedented demand on the supply of products and the delivery of goods to the end user in their post-pandemic recovery and with Christmas only 12 weeks away. A number of British retailers have reported systems issues and websites crashing as the UK struggles to return to pre-pandemic output and cope with demand. Software testing plays a critical role in e-commerce retailing as we rely on more online purchases. Two British tech firms – Credersi and ROQ, which are at the forefront of tech training and software testing – are addressing the shortage by training “work-ready” quality engineers through a uniquely designed fast-track training course. They are also increasing their efforts to encourage more women and members of the BAME communities into software testing. ROQ are pioneers in delivering strategic software testing solutions and providing trained quality engineers. The firm provides services to the likes of legal giants Linklaters, as well as Deloitte, Boots, Specsavers, Unilever, MS Amlin, The Post Office and the NHS. Stephen Johnson, Founder and CEO of ROQ Software Testing Solutions, is one of the leading figures and experts in the strategic software testing industry. “As we approach the busiest time of the year with Christmas weeks away, retailers are faced with an unprecedented set of demands from consumers. Demand is outstripping supply and goods are taking longer to manufacture and deliver. Much of this due in part to the factors of Brexit and the pandemic. “The Facebook/Instagram/What’s App outage last week has also perfectly demonstrated the vulnerability of systems if they are not regularly tested. No company is too big to fall and the impact on any business can be devastating both financially and in losing customer trust and goodwill. This is also a time when retailers face huge spikes and surges in their e-commerce sites with Black Friday, Cyber Monday and increased online shopping with Christmas demand. Brexit and the pandemic have also created the perfect storm of skills shortages across a number of industries. Software testing provides an essential role to the core functionality of any retail and e-commerce business. Unless you rigorously test systems, you cannot find the weaknesses or vulnerabilities until it’s too late. Often for an e-commerce retailer, this comes at great financial cost and has a major impact on customers.” In December of last year, the Debenhams website crashed when more than 1 million shoppers tried to access the site. The cloud computing service Fastly took down thousands of websites in multiple countries earlier this year, costing numerous businesses billions in lost revenue. Retailers such as Amazon and eBay also found their websites had disappeared for an hour. These 2 companies alone boast a combined £25 billion in annual sales in the UK, meaning a 1-hour outage would have cost £3 million between them over that period. Other e-commerce sites such as PayPal were also hit and based on their 2020 transactions of $963 billion, the 1-hour outage would have cost them around $106 million. Johnson continued: “It is absolutely vital that any high street or online retailer with an e-commerce presence ensures that their software testing is put front and centre of their operations. There simply aren’t enough quality engineers to keep up with the demand by British companies and very soon this will reach breaking point. Together with Credersi, we are working to address that issue and will create a ‘best-in-class’ curriculum in software testing, taking candidates on a 14-week course to final certification. Most importantly, the Credersi ROQ curriculum will ensure all academy consultants are ‘work-ready’ to fill those key roles immediately.” The skills shortage in software testing has also been accelerated by the offshoring of “testing services” and Brexit. Andy Lord warned of the very real risk that if the UK does not train enough quality engineers for software testing, “there could be disastrous consequences not just for retail and e-commerce, but also business, industry and manufacturing who all need software systems tested.” Addressing the software testing industry skills shortage post-Brexit, Credersi has teamed up with leading software testing experts ROQ. The two companies have created a British software testing curriculum to train and “fast-track” a new generation of quality engineers with nationally recognised qualifications who are work-ready in 14 weeks. They aim to make the industry much more accessible to people who’d never considered a career in software testing or had but didn’t know how to get into it. Andy Lord has long been a passionate advocate for encouraging more women and members of BAME communities into STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). Andy Lord, CEO of Manchester-headquartered tech training firm Credersi, said: “Not having enough skilled quality engineers will mean that operating software systems will become vulnerable to bugs, glitches and critical failure. This then has a domino effect and impacts on service delivery across the economy, as well as delays in online retailing and delivery.” He continued: “In parallel, we only have to look at the current shortage of skilled lorry drivers who deliver our fuel supplies. The lack of skilled tanker drivers in this sector has had a huge impact on the physical delivery of fuel to the UK economy, despite there being plenty of fuel stocks. In turn, this then impacts the haulage industry and courier drivers who are fulfilling the e-commerce deliveries and cannot deliver the goods to their customers. This creates a domino effect and results in situations such as the panic-buying of fuel as we have just seen across the UK.” The newly created training course will enable students to become a fully qualified quality engineer in software testing. Not only will the engineers gain an ISTQB foundation-level qualification in software testing, but they will also benefit from real-world skills, using contemporary testing tools and techniques. All of the course topics are supported with real-life challenges and projects to ensure scenario planning simulates real-world evaluation. Training individuals in the skills of being a quality engineer is only the beginning. Andy Lord has long been an advocate for providing people with the softer skills that make them truly work-ready. To learn more about ROQ Strategic Testing Solutions and Credersi, please visit www.credersi.com and www.roq.co.uk On a final note, Andy Lord added: “This should be a wakeup call to ensure that companies invest heavily in training and upskilling their workforces across all business sectors in industry, manufacturing and technology, so we can compete equally on the global stage. Whether it’s training a new generation of lorry drivers to transport goods or fuel, or quality engineers in software testing, by increasing our workforce capacity we minimise and reduce the risks of critical failures.” Company Website: https://credersi.com https://www.roq.co.uk Contact Details Credersi Gerard Franklin, Head Of PR & Communications +44 7791 039636 gerard@i5media.co.uk

October 12, 2021 03:01 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Harrods enters the limited-edition sneaker market welcoming The Edit LDN

Stockwood Strategy

The UK’s leading online store for limited edition sneakers and high-end streetwear The Edit LDN, today announced the opening of its first ever UK boutique store in Harrods, one of London’s most famous department stores. Harrods visitors will be able to see, experience and buy the latest limited-edition sneakers from The Edit LDN. Already popular with royalty, celebrities and footballers, The Edit LDN is a leading online destination that sells the hottest and hardest to get sneakers and streetwear from brands including Yeezy, Jordan, Off-White and collaborations through to Supreme, among others to a wide community of fashionistas, collectors and investors. Just as premium sites like Farfetch address the fashion world, The Edit LDN showcases the latest sneakers and high-end streetwear. They connect premium resellers with a highly engaged, price agnostic and eager audience. Moses Rashid, Founder and CEO of The Edit LDN commented: “We want to expand and increase accessibility for people who want to own limited edition sneakers around the world. Being the first sneaker reseller in Harrods is a proud and milestone moment for the company and its great to see such a global mega brand engaging with the sneaker market, moreover, that we're the catalyst to make that happen. Harrods offers an amazing customer journey to their global customer base and this aligns completely with our approach, to offer the best in class service. In 18 months, we have expanded our community of buyers from avid sneaker fans to TV and film celebrities as well as professional footballers and royal families around the world. Opening in Harrods is a logical next step as we bring our unique proposition to their customer base”. The Edit LDN has established itself as a trusted source of authenticated and high quality new and pre-loved streetwear and sneakers. Their unabating focus on speed (to deliver purchased goods), customer service engagement and ensuring all goods are authenticated has been testament to the growth of the platform and community. Simon Longland, Head of Menswear at Harrods commented: “Over the past three years, menswear at Harrods has undertaken a huge transformation, that has been visible through our brand curation as well as the physical shop floor. Our goal has been to transform the menswear experience at Harrods and embrace the most important and desirable trends on the market, and the launch of The Edit LDN continues that strategy. Bringing The Edit LDN’s industry expertise to Harrods ensures that our customers have access to the latest and most exclusive styles on the market through a service level which is unmistakably Harrods.” Helen David, Chief Merchant at Kurt Geiger added: “We’ve been at the forefront of embracing the latest trends serving a wide and diverse range of customers. What used to be considered sportswear is now considered luxury, and the shoes that are the most wanted and the hottest tickets are now sneakers. Without this as part of our matrix at Harrods, we wouldn’t have a proper 360 luxury offer. Hosting The Edit LDN at Harrods is testament to our commitment of meeting our customer needs with the market-leader in the premium sneaker business. Our shared objective with The Edit LDN is to ensure that Harrods’ customers have access to the latest and best on the market to meet their lifestyle needs.” Looking ahead, Moses said: “This is a marketplace worth $6b a year globally and will grow 5x by 2030. The demand for sneakers is growing every day and we are at the heart of servicing this trend. It’s been a remarkable 18 months since we launched to now opening in Harrods, the world’s most iconic department store. We are in hyper growth and headed in the right trajectory as we scale the business globally. Our on-going funding round will enable us to move faster and achieve our goals“. About The Edit LDN Founded in 2020, The Edit LDN has quickly become the UK’s leading online consignment store for limited edition sneakers and high end streetwear, both new and pre-loved items. Their innovative platform connects premium resellers to a global audience offering a deluxe experience from discovery, packaging and delivery. Brands include Jordan, Yeezy, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Off-White, Supreme, Fear of God among others. The platform is fast becoming synonymous with speed of service, authenticity, diverse selection of secure payment methods, and first class customer service. The Edit LDN is the leading destination for resellers and their premium sneakers and streetwear. Through partnerships with styling services such as Thread.com and various concierge companies, The Edit LDN has a community of buyers celebrities to professional footballers and royal families around the world. Further information visit: www.theeditldn.com. You are welcome to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook or Instagram About Harrods Harrods began as a wholesale grocer and tea merchant in east London, first opening its doors in 1834. Since then, it has grown to become the world’s most famous department store, known for its unrivalled range of luxury merchandise. As well as exclusive brands and myriad departments, one of Harrods’ most renowned attributes is its unparalleled service. Harrods continues to be guided by its philosophy of “anything is possible” and, to this day, our customers remain at the heart of everything we do. Harrods.com About Kurt Geiger Kurt Geiger is a premium footwear brand operating across the UK. It first opened its doors on Bond Street in 1963. Kurt Geiger's own brands for women, men and children include Kurt Geiger London, KG, Carvela and Miss KG. Kurt Geiger has operated the Harrods and Selfridges footwear departments for the past 25 years. This unique positioning sets Kurt Geiger apart as a distinctive and unparalleled multi-channel business selling third-party and owned brands through department store concessions. The brand has over 80 stores worldwide, kurtgeiger.com, as well as e-commerce concession sites and wholesale partners. Selling over four million pairs of shoes a year this makes Kurt Geiger the largest luxury footwear retailer in Europe. Contact Details The Edit LDN Bilal Mahmood +44 7714 007257 b.mahmood@stockwoodstrategy.com Company Website https://www.theeditldn.com/

October 11, 2021 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Osmo’s Halloween Sale Turns Learning Into A Fun Treat!

Osmo

Palo Alto-- Osmo announces a Halloween sale that turns learning into a fun treat for kids ages 3 to 10+. From 10/10 through 10/16, save 25% off select kits, games and bundles at PlayOsmo.com, Amazon, Target, BestBuy & other retailers. Kits and games on sale through PlayOsmo.com and multiple retailers include: Little Genius Starter Kit (base included) Genius Starter Kit (base included) Coding Starter Kit (base included) Creative Starter Kit (base included) Pizza Co. (base required) Detective Agency (base required) Super Studio Disney Mickey Mouse & Friends (base required) Super Studio Disney Princess (base required) Super Studio Disney Frozen 2 (base required) Math Wizard and the Secrets of the Dragons (base required) Math Wizard and the Magical Workshop (base required) Kits and games on sale through Amazon include: Little Genius Starter Kit for Fire Tablet (base included) Little Genius Starter Kit + Early Math Adventure for iPad + Case for iPad (base included) Math Wizard and the Secrets of the Dragons (iPad base included) Math Wizard and the Secrets of the Dragons (Fire base included) Math Wizard and the Magical Workshop (iPad base included) Math Wizard and the Magical Workshop (Fire base included) Math Wizard and the Amazing Airships (iPad base included) Math Wizard and the Amazing Airships (Fire base included) Math Wizard and the Enchanted World Games (iPad base included) Math Wizard and the Enchanted World Games (Fire base included) Super Studio Disney Mickey Mouse & Friends for iPad & Fire Tablet (base required) Super Studio Disney Princess for iPad & Fire Tablet (base required) Super Studio Disney Frozen 2 for iPad & Fire Tablet (base required) Pizza Co. for iPad (base included) Detective Agency for Fire Tablet (base included) Monster for iPad & Fire Tablet (base required) Genius Tangram for iPad & Fire Tablet (base required) Genius Words for iPad & Fire Tablet (base required) Genius Numbers for iPad & Fire Tablet (base required) Little Genius Sticks & Rings for iPad & Fire Tablet (base required) Little Genius Costume Pieces for iPad & Fire Tablet (base required) A full list of deals, including Amazon exclusives, can be viewed at Osmo’s Amazon store. Bundles on sales exclusively at PlayOsmo include: Math Wizard Bundle Pretend Play Bundle (Digital) Literacy Bundle Super Studio Artist Bundle A full list of deals at PlayOsmo.com can be viewed here. A full list of Osmo deals at Target can be viewed here. About Osmo Osmo is an award-winning STEAM brand whose products are used in over 50,000 classrooms and 2.5 million homes. It is building a universe of hands-on play experiences that nourish the minds of children by unleashing the power of imagination. The company brings physical tools into the digital world through augmented reality and its proprietary reflective artificial intelligence. Osmo is headquartered in Palo Alto, California, and is part of BYJU’S, a global leader in online learning. Learn more at PlayOsmo.com. For information about its educational division, Osmo for Schools, visit schools.playosmo.com. Contact Details Carolyn Kamii PR Carolyn Kamii +1 310-251-0550 carolynkpr@gmail.com Company Website http://www.playosmo.com

October 10, 2021 06:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time