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Business Wire India

Marking his first visit to Meril’s global headquarters at Vapi, former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni engaged in a heartfelt and inspiring conversation around “Bachpana Shouldn’t Retire”. “Bachpana Shouldn’t Retire” builds on Meril’s nationwide public health movement, “Treatment Zaroori Hai”, launched to strengthen awareness around timely diagnosis and access to advanced medical therapies.

 

As a focused extension of this larger movement, “Bachpana Shouldn’t Retire” introduces a dedicated senior citizen health initiative under the Treatment Zaroori Hai umbrella. The campaign reinforces that early detection, preventive screenings and access to innovative treatment options can significantly improve outcomes in cardiac, orthopedic and other age-related conditions —ultimately preserving independence and quality of life in the golden years. The campaign champions a simple yet powerful belief — while age may progress, the spirit of playfulness, curiosity and joy should never fade. The interaction spotlighted the importance of preserving dignity and enthusiasm at every stage of life, especially as India witnesses a steady rise in lifestyle-related conditions among its elderly population.

 

Speaking about the campaign’s deeper purpose, MS Dhoni emphasized, “I have always believed that taking care of your health is one of the most important things you can do — for yourself and for the people who love you. We all have a responsibility, especially the younger generation, to make sure our parents and grandparents get the care, attention, and support they deserve. Initiatives like Treatment Zaroori Hai are a step in that direction, and I am glad to be part of this.”

 

A National Movement for Families

 

Envisioned as a nationwide digital participation movement, the campaign encourages young Indians to spend meaningful time with their grandparents — whether by revisiting a childhood game, sharing a hobby, or simply capturing a joyful everyday moment. By blending emotional connection with preventive healthcare awareness, the initiative reinforces that emotional well-being and physical health go hand in hand.

 

India is witnessing a sharp rise in lifestyle-related health conditions that significantly affect healthy aging. Cardiovascular diseases account for nearly 28% of all deaths in India, making them the country’s leading cause of mortality, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Global Burden of Disease study. At the same time, changing lifestyles and reduced physical activity have accelerated obesity, with the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) reporting that over 24% of Indian adults are now overweight or obese. These factors are also contributing to a surge in mobility-related disorders — studies published in the Indian Journal of Orthopaedics and NIH research databases estimate that knee osteoarthritis affects nearly 1 in 4 adults in India, making it a leading cause of disability and a major driver of knee replacement surgeries in the country. Together, these trends highlight the growing need for preventive screening, early medical consultation, and access to advanced therapies to ensure that longer life expectancy is matched with healthier, more active years.

 

The campaign will be amplified across Treatment Zaroori Hai platforms and Meril’s official media handles, supported by a comprehensive multi-channel outreach strategy spanning print, television, radio, social media and digital platforms to ensure widespread national visibility. With targeted digital viewership milestones, measurable engagement metrics and strategic KOL participation through curated video bytes and expert-led conversations, the movement aims to spark a sustained, measurable dialogue around senior health and active aging.

 

As India’s population steadily ages, conversations around healthy and dignified aging are becoming increasingly vital. “Bachpana Shouldn’t Retire” stands as a reminder that growing older does not mean stepping away from life’s enthusiasm — and that timely healthcare awareness plays a crucial role in preserving that spirit.

 

The campaign calls upon families across the country to participate by sharing their own stories — recording short videos, posting heartfelt tributes, or celebrating cherished memories with their grandparents. By sharing these moments across social media through Treatment Zaroori Hai platforms and campaign messaging, individuals can transform personal memories into a collective national narrative that champions senior health, dignity and togetherness.

Business Wire India

Andersen Consulting expands its digital transformation offering through a Collaboration Agreement with Teolia Consulting, a French firm specializing in project and product management, cloud platform engineering, data transformation, and Atlassian suite integration and adoption.

 

Founded in 2014, Teolia Consulting helps organizations achieve digital performance, from agile methodology to time-to-market solutions. The firm’s expertise is focused on delivering integrated strategies that align technology with organizational change. The firm works across industries including banking, insurance, fashion, and retail, empowering clients to strengthen resilience and accelerate digital maturity.

 

“At Teolia Consulting, we believe that true transformation happens when technology and people evolve together,” said Lucienne Jacquet, managing partner of Teolia. “By collaborating with Andersen Consulting, we not only amplify our impact but also gain access to a worldwide organization of like-minded individuals. This synergy enables us to deliver integrated solutions on a global scale, coordinate seamlessly across markets, and bring our technical depth to clients seeking to optimize performance.”

 

“Teolia Consulting combines deep technology expertise with proven digital transformation capabilities,” said Mark L. Vorsatz, global chairman and CEO of Andersen. “The firm’s technical strength and innovative solutions complement our platform, enabling us to deliver practical, results-driven outcomes for clients facing complex digital challenges.”

 

Andersen Consulting is a global consulting practice providing a comprehensive suite of services spanning corporate strategy, business, technology, and AI transformation, as well as human capital solutions. Andersen Consulting integrates with the multidimensional service model of Andersen Global, delivering world-class consulting, tax, legal, valuation, global mobility, and advisory expertise on a global platform with more than 50,000 professionals worldwide and a presence in over 1,000 locations through its member firms and collaborating firms. Andersen Consulting Holdings LP is a limited partnership and provides consulting solutions through its member firms and collaborating firms around the world.

 

 

 

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260319177374/en/

 

Business Wire India

Perma-Pipe International Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) today announced a strategic expansion initiative focused on accelerating growth through entry into the high-demand U.S. Northeast region. The Company is positioning itself to capitalize on the rapidly expanding Artificial Intelligence (“AI”)-driven data center market in both the United States and international markets while continuing to reinforce its leadership in critical infrastructure solutions.

 

As part of this growth strategy, Perma-Pipe will prioritize investments aimed at expanding its presence in the rapidly evolving AI data center sector. The initiative reflects the Company’s long-term commitment to supporting next-generation technology infrastructure and strengthening its position in the global energy, industrial, and infrastructure markets.

 

 

Expansion in the U.S. Northeast

 

 

President & Chief Executive Officer, Saleh Sagr said, “We are excited to announce the expansion of our operations with a new facility in the Northeast, set to become operational in the second quarter of 2026. This facility will primarily focus on serving the rapidly growing AI-driven data center market, as well as the District Heating and Cooling sector. This strategic move supports our commitment to organic growth and strengthens our position as a global leader in the technology infrastructure ecosystem. Our primary focus will be on capitalizing on the significant potential in these key markets, both domestically and internationally. Furthermore, we are currently seeking to secure a new global banking agreement to provide enhanced liquidity, flexible financing options and expanded access to capital to support further investments in our growth.”

 

 

MENA Operations Update

 

 

Perma-Pipe also reaffirmed its strong operational position across the Middle East and North Africa region.

 

 

“Perma-Pipe remains fully committed to its operations throughout the MENA region. Despite ongoing regional conflicts our business operations have not been impacted. We have implemented comprehensive business continuity plans designed to mitigate potential risks and aim to ensure uninterrupted service to our customers and maintain operational stability and safety across all of our facilities,” Saleh Sagr added.

 

 

Market Dynamics Support Growth Strategy

 

 

As global demand for data processing capacity continues to accelerate, the Company believes that current market conditions present significant opportunities for infrastructure providers supporting AI and cloud computing.

 

 

“The rapid rise of artificial intelligence, cloud platforms and digital infrastructure is creating unprecedented demand for advanced data center solutions,” said Sagr. “Our strategic focus on AI data centers positions Perma-Pipe to capitalize on these powerful global trends. In addition, we are pursuing diversification into new product lines within the industrial and water sectors across both North America and the MENA region to further expand our market reach and ensure long-term resilience.

 

 

“We are excited about the future and the opportunities ahead for Perma-Pipe, with strong market demand, a disciplined growth strategy, new financial partnerships and robust business continuity planning, we are well positioned to execute on our strategic vision and capture the significant opportunities emerging in AI infrastructure, next-generation data centers and diversified industrial markets,” Saleh Sagr concluded.

 

 

Conclusion of the Board’s Exploration of Strategic Alternatives

 

 

The Board of Directors of the Company has concluded its process to explore strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value publicly announced on September 15, 2025. The review evaluated a wide range of value creating alternatives and after extensive evaluation and deliberation, in consultation with the Company’s legal and financial advisors, the Board unanimously determined that continuing to execute on the Company’s strategic plan as an independent public company is the best way to maximize value for shareholders at this time.

 

 

Perma-Pipe International Holdings, Inc.

 

 

Perma-Pipe International Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: PPIH) is a global leader in pre-insulated piping and leak detection systems for oil and gas, district heating and cooling, and other applications. It uses its extensive engineering and fabrication expertise to develop piping solutions that solve complex challenges regarding the safe and efficient transportation of many types of liquids. In total, Perma-Pipe has operations at fourteen locations in six countries.

 

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

 

Certain statements and other information contained in this press release that can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology constitute “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, and are subject to the safe harbors created thereby, including, without limitation, statements regarding the expected future performance and operations of the Company. These statements should be considered as subject to the many risks and uncertainties that exist in the Company’s operations and business environment. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the following: (i) the impact of public health crises on the Company’s results of operations, financial condition and cash flows; (ii) fluctuations in the price of oil and natural gas and its impact on the customer order volume for the Company’s products; (iii) the Company’s ability to comply with all covenants in its credit facilities; (iv) the Company’s ability to repay its debt and renew expiring international credit facilities; (v) the Company’s ability to effectively execute its strategic plan and achieve profitability and positive cash flows; (vi) the impact of global economic weakness and volatility; (vii) fluctuations in steel prices and the Company’s ability to offset increases in steel prices through price increases in its products; (viii) the timing of order receipt, execution, delivery and acceptance for the Company’s products; (ix) decreases in government spending on projects using the Company’s products, and challenges to the Company’s non-government customers’ liquidity and access to capital funds; (x) the Company’s ability to successfully negotiate progress-billing arrangements for its large contracts; (xi) aggressive pricing by existing competitors and the entrance of new competitors in the markets in which the Company operates; (xii) the Company’s ability to purchase raw materials at favorable prices and to maintain beneficial relationships with its suppliers; (xiii) the Company’s ability to manufacture products free of latent defects and to recover from suppliers who may provide defective materials to the Company; (xiv) reductions or cancellations of orders included in the Company’s backlog; (xv) the Company’s ability to collect an account receivable related to a project in the Middle East; (xvi) risks and uncertainties related to the Company’s international business operations; (xvii) the Company’s ability to attract and retain senior management and key personnel; (xviii) the Company’s ability to achieve the expected benefits of its growth initiatives; (xix) the Company’s ability to interpret changes in tax regulations and legislation; (xx) the Company’s ability to use its net operating loss carryforwards; (xxi) reversals of previously recorded revenue and profits resulting from inaccurate estimates made in connection with the Company’s percentage-of-completion revenue recognition; (xxii) the Company’s failure to establish and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting; and (xxiii) the impact of cybersecurity threats on the Company’s information technology systems. Shareholders, potential investors and other readers are urged to consider these factors carefully in evaluating the forward-looking statements and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements made herein are made only as of the date of this press release and we undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. More detailed information about factors that may affect our performance may be found in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available at https://www.sec.gov and under the Investor Center section of our website (http://investors.permapipe.com).

 

 

 

 

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Business Wire India

The KP Singh Foundation (KPSF), in collaboration with ISAP India Foundation, launched the project Empowering Women through Dairy Entrepreneurship at Jaat Bhawan, Karnal.

The project aims to equip 500 rural women in Karnal and Kurukshetra districts with the knowledge, technical skills, and entrepreneurial support required to transform traditional dairy activities into sustainable and profitable enterprises.

The launch programme was attended by representatives from the National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), Centre of Excellence for Dairy Skills in India (CEDSI), Escorts Kubota Limited, Farmer Producer Organisations, and a lead group of women beneficiaries.

Speaking on the occasion, Gaurav Vats, COO, ISAP India Foundation, highlighted the important role of women in the dairy sector and emphasized the need for skill development, scientific dairy practices, and market linkages to enhance income opportunities.

During the technical session, livestock expert Dr. Ramesh Rawal shared practical guidance on the selection of high-productivity animals, genetic improvement, and proper feeding and nutrition, noting that feed accounts for nearly 60% of milk production cost.

Representatives from CEDSI and NDRI, including Ms. Aarzoo and Dr. Raman Malik, discussed training opportunities in scientific dairy management, feed preparation, and value addition to support women in building viable dairy enterprises.

Mr. Venu Nair, CEO, KP Singh Foundation, said, “Reflecting the Foundation’s inspiration from Mr. KP Singh’s vision of expanding opportunity and unlocking potential, we see women’s economic empowerment as much more than an income story. When women have agency, earn independently, and participate in economic decisions, the gains are felt across the household — in improved nutrition, better education for children, stronger health-seeking behaviour, and greater overall family wellbeing. This initiative is therefore not only about dairy entrepreneurship; it is about enabling women to become more empowered actors in shaping the future of their families and communities.”

The project is designed to strengthen women-led livelihoods through capacity building, technical support, and enterprise development, thereby contributing to sustainable rural development in Haryana.

Business Wire India

Following the announcement by the CAF Appeal Board, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) welcomes the decision, which reaffirms the primacy of competition regulations and reinforces the conditions necessary for the proper conduct of international tournaments.

 

From the outset, following the incidents that led to the interruption of the match, the FRMF maintained a clear and consistent position: the strict application of the governing regulations. The Federation’s approach was solely guided by this principle.

 

Following its appeal, CAF has now confirmed that the applicable regulations were not properly enforced.

 

Throughout the process, the FRMF acted in full compliance with all relevant legal and procedural frameworks, with a constant focus on upholding its rights and preserving the integrity of the competition.

 

This decision provides clarity on the applicable framework and strengthens the consistency and credibility of international competitions, particularly within African football.

 

The FRMF remains committed to the consistent and fair application of competition regulations across all continental and international bodies. It now turns its focus to the upcoming sporting calendar, including the FIFA World Cup and the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations scheduled for this summer.

 

The FRMF also commends all participating nations in this year’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which once again highlighted the strength and dynamism of African football.

 

Source: AETOSWire

 

 

 

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260319152379/en/

 

Business Wire India

 

• Independent, design-led YOTEL brand gains reach through Hilton’s global distribution platform
• Hilton Honors members gain access to a sleek, contemporary new way to stay
• YOTEL will be the first independent brand as part of newly established Select by Hilton brand

 

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) today announced an exclusive agreement with YOTEL that will provide guests yet another way to stay within the hospitality leader’s growing global portfolio. With highly efficient hotels in urban markets, YOTEL has pioneered ways to meet changing guest needs through stays that feature smart room design, and clever tech-enabled features.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260318705963/en/

 

 

 

The franchise agreement with YOTEL expands Hilton’s network, filling a distinct customer need in the growing lifestyle segment in a manner consistent with its proven asset-light model. YOTEL will continue to independently manage and license its brand at 23 hotels across 10 countries, with a goal of more than tripling its portfolio in the coming years.

 

YOTEL will be the first brand in the newly established Select by Hilton. Select by Hilton is designed to grow into a brand that creates new ways to stay for guests, with the trust, confidence, and perks they expect from Hilton. High-quality, established hotel brands that join Select by Hilton will retain their own identity and brand management while they connect to the award-winning Hilton Honors loyalty program and enjoy the benefits of Hilton’s superior distribution and technology platforms.

 

 

Launched in London in 2007, YOTEL has extended its innovative brand to hotels in key markets like New York, Tokyo, Amsterdam, Glasgow and Singapore with smart, efficient room designs that feature the YOTEL SmartBed™, which can transform from a flatbed to a sofa with the touch of a button, and tech-forward features like automated luggage storage.

 

 

“The addition of YOTEL to Hilton’s network is the latest example of our commitment to capital efficient growth through a relationship that is both complementary to our existing brand portfolio and offers guests thoughtfully designed, sleek new ways to stay with Hilton in key urban locations around the world,” said Christian Charnaux, executive vice president and chief development officer, Hilton. “This agreement further strengthens our network effect by connecting a beloved independent brand like YOTEL into the powerful Hilton Honors network and commercial distribution system, while preserving what makes the brand unique.”

 

 

The Hilton brand increases visibility and demand for YOTEL without altering the experience that defines YOTEL’s brand, which will continue to operate with the same quality, intelligent design, and service style.

 

 

“Hilton brings unmatched global distribution and loyalty scale to our brand and business,” said Phil Andreopoulos, chief executive officer, YOTEL. “YOTEL’s relationship with Hilton allows us to expand our reach while staying true to who we are. What changes for YOTEL is access – not identity – in a capital-light, and scalable way.”

 

 

Once integrated into Hilton’s network, Hilton Honors members staying at participating YOTEL properties will enjoy the benefits of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s world-class brands. The nearly 250 million Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits and contactless technology exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app.

 

 

The first hotels are expected to be available for booking through Hilton channels later in 2026.

 

 

About Hilton

 

 

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 27 world-class brands comprising more than 9,100 properties and over 1.3 million rooms, in 143 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed over 4 billion guests in its more than 100-year history. Named as the No. 1 World’s Best Workplace by Great Place to Work and Fortune, Hilton aims to create the best culture for its 500,000 team members around the world. Hilton has introduced industry-leading technology enhancements to improve the guest experience, including Digital Key Share, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the nearly 250 million Hilton Honors members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can’t buy. With the free Hilton Honors app, guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit stories.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

 

 

About YOTEL

 

 

YOTEL is a global hotel group with 23 properties in sought-after locations. YOTEL exists so guests sleep better, move faster and enjoy the destination more. From buzzing cities to bustling airports, YOTEL promises the luxury of time, the access of brilliant locations and the fun of discovery. Every stay.

 

 

Headquartered in London, the group’s portfolio consists of three brands: YOTEL (city centre hotels), YOTELPAD (extended stay option) and YOTELAIR (airport hotels). YOTEL is in cities across the world, including Amsterdam, Boston, Edinburgh, Geneva, Glasgow, London, Manchester, Miami, New York, Porto, San Francisco, Singapore, Tokyo and Washington DC, and at London Gatwick, Amsterdam Schiphol, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Istanbul, and Singapore Changi airports. Upcoming openings include Kuala Lumpur (2026), Athens (2027), Belfast (2028), Lisbon (2028) and NEOM (2029).

 

 

YOTEL’s major shareholders include the Talal Jassim Al-Bahar Group, United Investment Portugal, and Kuwait Real Estate Company (AQARAT).

 

 

YOTEL was originally created by YO! founder Simon Woodroffe OBE who took inspiration from the experience of first-class travel and translated that ethos, language and design into small but beautifully designed rooms. www.yo.co.uk. www.yotel.com

 

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

 

This press 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. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements related to our expectations regarding the performance of our business, future results, and other non-historical statements. In some cases, you can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of words such as “outlook,” “believes,” “expects,” “forecasts,” “potential,” “continues,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “seeks,” “projects,” “predicts,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates,” “anticipates” or the negative version of these words or other comparable words. Such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties including, among others, risks inherent to the hospitality industry; macroeconomic factors beyond our control, such as inflation, changes in interest rates, challenges due to labor shortages or disputes and supply chain disruptions; the loss of key senior management personnel; competition for hotel guests and management and franchise contracts; risks related to doing business with third-party hotel owners; performance of our information technology systems; growth of reservation channels outside of our system; risks of doing business outside of the U.S.; risks associated with geopolitical conflicts; uncertainty resulting from U.S. and global political trends, tariffs and other policies, including potential barriers to travel, trade and immigration and other geopolitical events; and our indebtedness. Additional factors that could cause our results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found under the section entitled “Part I—Item 1A. Risk Factors” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, which is filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and is accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Such factors may be updated from time to time in our periodic filings with the SEC. Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause actual outcomes or results to differ materially from those indicated in these statements. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements that are included in this press release and in our filings with the SEC. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by law.

 

 

 

 

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260318705963/en/

 

Business Wire India

 

A Global AI-Native Marketing Infrastructure Network for Enterprise Growth

 

Keenfolks, the AI transformation partner behind marketing initiatives for brands including Coca-Cola, Diageo, Mars, Reckitt, Nestlé and Merck-MSD, today announced the launch of KEENFOLKS X_, a new global marketing network designed to operate on shared AI infrastructure

 

The traditional holding company model that has shaped global marketing for decades is facing increasing pressure as capital markets, consolidation activity, and client demands point to a need for structural change.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260319751842/en/

 

 

 

The marketing industry is searching for a new model. The question is no longer whether agencies need to change, but which ones were built for this shift from the start.

 

Keenfolks, the Integrative AI® partner built natively for the Age of Intelligence, today announces the launch of KEENFOLKS X_ — a new global AI-native marketing network designed to help organizations move beyond fragmented services and toward intelligent systems, scalable solutions, and measurable transformation.

 

 

The network is built on K OS_, Keenfolks’ proprietary marketing operating system, which connects intelligence, data, automation, and execution into reusable marketing systems.

 

 

The objective is clear: to help organisations move beyond fragmented agency delivery and build scalable marketing capabilities powered by AI.

 

 

The Industry Shift

 

 

Over the past decade, marketing organisations have accumulated increasingly complex technology stacks, fragmented agency ecosystems, and disconnected data environments. While these structures worked in a campaign-driven era, they struggle to operate effectively in a world where marketing performance is increasingly shaped by:

 

 

• Real-time data
• AI decision systems
• Automated content and media production
• Continuous optimisation loops

 

 

In this environment, competitive advantage comes not from isolated campaigns, but from integrated marketing systems that learn and improve over time. KEENFOLKS X_ was designed specifically to build and operate those systems.

 

“The industry is looking for a new model, but for us this is not a future idea — it is an operating reality. KEENFOLKS X_ is how we scale an AI-native way of working that enterprise brands already trust: connecting intelligence, platforms, workflows, and experiences into systems that perform, learn, and compound value over time. We believe the next era will belong to partners who do more than deliver campaigns — they help build the intelligent systems and growth engines behind modern marketing.”

 

 

— Miguel Machado, CEO and Co-Founder, Keenfolks

 

 

The Platform: K OS_

 

 

At the core of the model is K OS_, Keenfolks’ AI-native marketing operating system. The platform connects four foundational layers:

 

 

• Intelligence: AI-driven analysis of marketing performance, consumer behaviour, and market signals.
• Platforms: Integration with CRM, media, commerce, and marketing technology environments.
• Workflows: Agent-driven processes that automate planning, production, personalisation, and optimisation.
• Experiences: The execution layer where brands deploy campaigns, content ecosystems, and digital experiences.

 

 

Together, these layers transform marketing from a collection of services into a continuously improving operational system.

 

From Services to Systems

 

 

Keenfolks has spent the past several years helping enterprise organisations build these systems.

 

 

One example is Diageo’s “What’s Your Cocktail” platform, an AI-driven personalisation engine that analysed behaviour across 51 million consumers in the US and UK. The system delivered cocktail recommendations at key decision points, generating engagement rates more than 4X the industry benchmark. More importantly, the system continues to learn and improve over time. KEENFOLKS X_ extends this approach globally.

 

 

The Economic Model

 

 

The network introduces a new commercial structure that moves beyond traditional agency economics.

 

 

KEENFOLKS X_ operates through three engagement models:

 

 

• Transformation partnerships: Building AI-driven marketing systems for enterprise organisations.
• Solution development: Creating reusable products and capabilities across the network.
• Venture co-creation: Working with clients to build new data, technology, and marketing ventures.

 

 

This approach allows Keenfolks and its partners to participate in long-term value creation rather than short-term project delivery.

 

Network Expansion

 

 

Founded in Barcelona and with offices in London, New York, and Mexico City, Keenfolks currently delivery activity across 50+ markets. The launch of KEENFOLKS X_ marks the beginning of the company’s next phase of growth.

 

 

Over the coming months, Keenfolks will begin confirming strategic partners across key markets and expanding the network’s global delivery capabilities. The company is also exploring venture funding to accelerate the development of new AI-driven marketing infrastructure and solutions.

 

 

About KEENFOLKS X_

 

 

KEENFOLKS X_ is Keenfolks’ global AI-native marketing network for the Age of Intelligence. Built on K OS_, it connects intelligence, platforms, workflows, and experiences into reusable intelligent systems and scalable solutions that help organisations move beyond fragmented marketing delivery. Through this model, Keenfolks combines transformation services, solution building, venture co-creation, and selected risk-share structures to create more durable and measurable value for clients.

 

 

About Keenfolks

 

 

Keenfolks is the Integrative AI® partner built for the Age of Intelligence. Founded in Barcelona, with offices in London, New York, and Mexico City and delivery activity across 50+ countries, Keenfolks helps global brands evolve their marketing practice through intelligent systems that connect strategy, data, technology, media, CRM, and creative execution. Clients include Coca-Cola, Diageo, Kellanova, Reckitt, Mars, Nestlé, and Merck-MSD.

 

 

About Miguel Machado

 

 

Miguel Machado is the CEO and Co-Founder of Keenfolks and Og.ai. He has led AI-driven marketing transformation for global brands including Coca-Cola, Diageo, Mars, Reckitt, Merck-MSD, and Nestlé. A frequent keynote speaker and host of the AI Marketing Transformation Podcast, he focuses on building practical frameworks that connect strategy, technology, data, and human capability for the Age of Intelligence.

 

 

 

 

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260319751842/en/

 

Business Wire India

Over the past decade, Indian single malt whisky has transformed the country’s reputation in global spirits, challenging long-established whisky regions and earning international acclaim. Now, a similar shift may be unfolding in another category deeply rooted in India’s agricultural heritage — Rum.

 

In a landmark moment for Indian spirits, Camikara — India’s first pure cane juice aged rum — has secured top honours at two of the world’s most respected rum competitions, signalling the emergence of India as a serious contender in premium rum.

 

At the Global Rum & Cachaça Masters Awards 2026 in the United Kingdom, Camikara 8-Year-Old was awarded the prestigious ‘Master Medal’, the competition’s highest distinction. In the same competition, Camikara 3-Year-Old secured its second consecutive ‘Gold Medal’, making Camikara the only Indian rum to win both Master and Gold in the same year.

 

Recognition soon followed in the United States. At the Aged Rum category tasting conducted by The Fifty Best, Camikara 8YO received a ‘Double Gold’ Medal, a distinction reserved for spirits that receive unanimous top scores from all judges. In the International blend category, Camikara 3YO also secured ‘Gold’, reinforcing the brand’s consistency across both expressions and international tasting panels.

 

Together, these accolades place Camikara among a select group of rums to have impressed judging panels on both sides of the Atlantic — a rare achievement for any brand and a particularly significant moment for Indian rum.

 

“For a country with such a long and complex relationship with sugarcane, this moment carries deep historical resonance. References to fermented cane beverages appear in ancient Indian texts, yet for decades modern Indian rum was largely associated with industrial-scale production rather than artisanal craft. What we are witnessing now is a shift in that perception. With global judging panels recognising the quality and character of what we are producing, Camikara is helping reshape how Indian spirits are viewed internationally — not as volume products, but as expressions of terroir, tradition and technical excellence,” said Shalini Sharma, Head of Marketing, Piccadily Agro Industries Limited.

 

For generations, the global rum narrative has been shaped largely by the Caribbean and Latin America. Nations producing vast quantities of sugarcane rarely featured in conversations around premium rum. India — despite being one of the world’s largest producers of sugarcane — remained largely absent from the global premium rum conversation. That narrative is now beginning to shift.

 

At the heart of Camikara’s global recognition lies a production philosophy rooted in authenticity and craft. Unlike many rums that rely on molasses or post-distillation additives, Camikara is crafted from fresh sugarcane juice harvested within 36 hours, preserving the natural character of the cane.

 

The spirit is then aged in American oak barrels under North India’s subtropical climate, where wide temperature variations accelerate maturation and deepen the interaction between wood and spirit. The result is a rum shaped as much by geography as by technique — reflecting India’s terroir, climate and sugarcane heritage rather than attempting to replicate traditional Caribbean styles.

Business Wire India

For a vast segment of painters and contractors across India, awareness and access to financial protection schemes often remain limited despite the availability of several government welfare initiatives. Recognising this gap, Birla Opus Paints, part of Grasim Industries under the Aditya Birla Group, has been actively working to simplify and strengthen financial access for the community through Project Samarth, a dedicated initiative focused on enabling financial awareness and assisted enrolment into social security schemes for on-ground workers.

 

As part of this initiative, Birla Opus Paints has been conducting on-ground financial awareness and assisted enrolment camps across the country. In the recent months, Project Samarth camps have successfully concluded in Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, and Mumbai. These camps are specially designed to simplify access to social security schemes and bridge awareness gaps that often prevent workers from benefiting from government welfare programmes.

 

Structured as hands-on support platforms, the camps provide guided education and real-time enrolment assistance for several key government initiatives, including e-Shram, Ayushman Bharat, Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, and Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, among other relevant welfare programmes. Dedicated help desks and trained representatives assist participants with eligibility checks, documentation, and seamless on-the-spot registrations.

 

Through these efforts, Birla Opus Paints has already facilitated enrolment for 5,000+ painters and contractors across locations, marking a significant step in building financial awareness and long-term social security for the community that forms the backbone of the paints industry.

 

A key highlight of Project Samarth has been the introduction of Yojana Cards, distributed to newly enrolled participants. Each card features a unique QR code that allows beneficiaries to digitally access and track the status of all schemes they are enrolled in through a single dashboard. The platform also enables users to explore additional schemes, check eligibility, and initiate further enrolments independently, creating a simple and centralised gateway to welfare services.

 

Speaking on the initiative, Srikanth SK, Head – Customer Experience, said, “At Birla Opus Paints, our relationship with painters and contractors goes far beyond products and programmes, it is built on long-term partnership and community well-being. Through Project Samarth, we aim to simplify access to social security schemes, provide financial awareness, and offer on-ground support so that workers and their families can build greater financial stability for the future. The encouraging response reinforces the importance of such initiatives, and we remain committed to expanding these efforts across more regions.”

 

With Project Samarth, Birla Opus Paints continues to demonstrate that strong partnerships with painters and contractors extend beyond professional collaboration. To capture the impact of the initiative, Birla Opus Paints has also created a short video featuring testimonials from painters and contractors who participated in the camps, sharing their experiences and how Project Samarth helped them access welfare schemes that were previously difficult to navigate. 

Link here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EbEi6hsi0tY

Business Wire India

 

Laserfiche — the leading SaaS provider of intelligent content management — today announced the winners of the 2026 Laserfiche Run Smarter® Awards.

 

These awards celebrate the visionaries and trailblazers who are redefining the possible, using Laserfiche to break down operational silos and catalyze a new era of enterprise-wide productivity. From a large city reimagining criminal justice to a financial services firm’s innovative use of AI for smarter service delivery: The winners enhance productivity, reimagine processes and improve lives with Laserfiche technology.

 

 

“The true power of Laserfiche has always been in how it unlocks value — whether that is through delivering actionable intelligence, cost savings, or reclaimed time to put toward innovation,” said Karl Chan, CEO of Laserfiche. “This year’s honorees are at the forefront of information management, with many of them leveraging cloud and AI technology to modernize processes and achieve business transformation.”

 

 

Congratulations to the 2026 Run Smarter Award winners:

 

 

• Doug Haubert, City Prosecutor, Long Beach City Prosecutor’s Office: Nien-Ling Wacker Visionary of the Year
• Young Lee,Information Systems Analyst, City of Camarillo, California:Digital Transformation Leader of the Year
• Priya Karthick, Enterprise IT Technologist, Texas A&M Technology Services:Laserfiche Champion of the Year
• Choctaw Nation IT Tribal Solutions: Best Program ROI
• Palo Alto Unified School District Information Services:Change Maker of the Year
• Kansas State University: Laserfiche Program of the Year, U.S./Canada
• Albany Trustee Company Limited: Laserfiche Program of the Year, EMEA
• City of Tucson Department Applications Team:Laserfiche Team of the Year

 

Learn more about the Laserfiche Run Smarter Award winners here.

 

Laserfiche will celebrate the winners during the 2026 Empower conference. Click here to register for the conference.

 

 

About Laserfiche

 

 

Laserfiche is the leading enterprise platform that helps organizations digitally transform operations and manage their content with AI-powered solutions. Through scalable workflows, customizable forms, no-code templates and AI-enabled capabilities, the Laserfiche® document management platform accelerates how business gets done. Trusted by organizations of all sizes — from startups to Fortune 500 enterprises — Laserfiche empowers teams to boost productivity, foster collaboration, and deliver a superior customer experience at scale. Headquartered in Long Beach, California, Laserfiche operates globally, with offices across North America, Europe, and Asia.

 

 

Connect with Laserfiche:

 

 

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