All posts by Neel Achary

OREM, UTAH and AUBURN HILLS, MI— MAY 18, 2026 — Bricks & Minifigs®, an authorized LEGO® reseller specializing in buying, trading, and selling LEGO products and Santoki, US distributor of LEGO licensed LED lights, stationery and clocks, today announced a new national partnership celebrating the creativity of the LEGO MOC Wall Clock. The launch features a nationwide in-store building contest designed to create an in-store creative activity across all ages. The contest will run across more than 240 Bricks & Minifigs franchise locations in the U.S. from May 15 to July 14, 2026, to give communities across the country the opportunity to participate. The customizable MOC Wall Clock will be available for purchase in Bricks & Minifigs and LEGO Store locations during the promotional period.

“As Bricks & Minifigs continues to expand nationally and deepen our direct relationship with LEGO, we are thrilled to bring fun collaborations with Santoki and other official partners directly to consumers in our stores,” said Ammon McNeff, CEO of Bricks & Minifigs. “We love seeing local communities come together in our stores to participate in events, and this contest creates an exciting opportunity for customers to showcase their creativity while enjoying a family-friendly experience.”

How the contest will work:
Participants are invited to visit a Bricks & Minifigs store location to design a custom clock, photograph their completed creation, and submit their entry by scanning the provided QR code. Additionally, participants are encouraged to share their creations through social media using the #SantokiMOCClock.

The contest is open to builders of all ages; however, entries created by minors must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian. Entries will be reviewed by a team of judges evaluating the designs on creativity, functionality, and overall LEGO clock content to reach a decision for the top 10 finalists. Those selected will advance to a public voting round hosted on Santoki’s social media, allowing the LEGO community to help determine the winners. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal U.S. residents (50 states + DC). Ends July 14, 2026. Void where prohibited. Sponsored by Santoki. See Official Rules at https://santoki.com/pages/clockcontestrules

Grand Prize:
The Grand Prize winner will receive a $550 Bricks & Minifigs gift card. Additional prizes will be awarded to top placements and finalists, with total prize value exceeding $1,000, along with swag and promotional items.

This clock marks the first release in Santoki’s newest product line, LEGO Time by IQHK™, with additional clocks expected to roll out in the future.

“Our partnership with Bricks & Minifigs was a natural fit for this launch,” said Beth Muehlenkamp, VP of Product & Marketing at Santoki. “Bricks & Minifigs is widely known for its bins of bulk bricks, which create the perfect opportunity for customers to personalize a MOC clock that is entirely unique to their vision. The MOC Wall Clock is where creative expression meets timekeeping as fans can create again and again for the theme that best fits their room or mood. This is the first-ever national contest we have done, and we are excited to see the unmatched creativity of Bricks & Minifigs customers come to life.”

SCOTTSDALE, AZ – May 18, 2026 – SimonMed, one of the largest outpatient imaging providers in the United States, today announced the launch of the SimonMed Shield Program, a permanent nationwide initiative designed to help military personnel, veterans, and first responders access proactive whole-body MRI screening at a reduced cost. Through the program, eligible individuals will receive 20% off any SimonMed Longevity whole-body MRI.

The SimonMed Shield Program is designed to help those who serve take a more proactive approach to their health through advanced, radiation-free imaging that can be designed to help identify potential health issues earlier and establish a meaningful clinical baseline.

Military personnel and first responders often work in physically and emotionally demanding environments where prioritizing personal health can take a back seat to service.

“Many veterans and first responders spend years focused on protecting others while putting their own health second,” said Dr. Sean Raj, Chief Medical Officer and Chief Innovation Officer at SimonMed. “The Shield Program is one way we can support them in taking a more proactive approach to their own health through advanced imaging designed to help identify potential concerns earlier.”

Beginning on Armed Forces Day, eligible patients can access the ongoing program benefit at SimonMed locations nationwide. No referral is required, HSA and FSA funds may be used and each whole-body MRI includes a 1:1 virtual clinical consultation to review findings and next steps. If additional evaluation is recommended, patients may also have access to follow-up imaging services across SimonMed’s nationwide network, including advanced MRI, CT, cardiac, women’s imaging, and bone health services—supporting a more seamless care journey. The Shield Program is available to veterans, active-duty military, reserve, and National Guard members, police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics. 

SimonMed’s Longevity whole-body MRI evaluates 13+ organs and systems in a single, radiation-free exam, including the brain, spine, chest, abdomen, and pelvic organs. The scan may help identify potential abnormalities associated with conditions such as certain cancers, fatty liver disease, aneurysms, and musculoskeletal or spinal degeneration—often before symptoms appear.

The Shield Program reflects SimonMed’s broader commitment to expanding access to preventive imaging and supporting the long-term health of those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving others. Eligible individuals can learn more or schedule an appointment at SimonMed.com/Shield. 

Everett, Washington: 18 May 2026 – EngageRM, Microsoft’s preferred CRM partner in sports and entertainment, has announced a new partnership with the Everett Silvertips, delivering a purpose-built solution to the distinct operational challenges faced by North American minor league franchises.

New partnership showcases how a global, Microsoft-aligned platform is tailored to the unique commercial model of minor league sport

Competing in multiple hockey leagues, the Silvertips operate within a model that demands high efficiency across season memberships, ticketing, and commercial partnerships – often with leaner teams and tighter resource constraints than their major league counterparts. EngageRM’s platform has been selected to address this complexity, unifying these core functions into a single, scalable system designed to simplify operations while unlocking new commercial value.

Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, this partnership highlights EngageRM’s ability to adapt its globally proven platform to the specific needs of different sporting tiers. Minor league organisations, in particular, require flexible, integrated solutions that reflect their reliance on membership-driven revenue and community engagement—areas where EngageRM has deep, established expertise.

“Minor league teams face a unique set of operational and commercial challenges that aren’t always addressed by traditional enterprise systems,” said Adam Boyle, Chief Operating Officer at EngageRM. “As Microsoft’s chosen partner in sport, we’ve built a platform that combines global scale with the flexibility to solve these more nuanced challenges—bringing memberships, partnerships, and fan engagement into one connected ecosystem that works for organisations of any size.”

“EngageRM stood out because they understand the realities of how we operate,” said Zoran Rajcic, Chief Operating Officer at Everett Silvertips Hockey Club. “We need a system that can streamline our membership processes, support our partners, and ultimately help us deliver a better experience to our fans. This partnership gives us that foundation.”

EngageRM’s modular platform, spanning memberships, partnerships, events, and advanced data capabilities, continues to support organisations globally in replacing fragmented systems with a unified, scalable solution. Its ability to flex across different markets and operating models ensures teams can modernise their infrastructure without compromising on the specific needs of their organisation.

Turin, São Paulo – May 18, 2026 – Comau has signed a binding agreement for the acquisition of Invent, a Brazil-based company specializing in intralogistics and warehouse automation solutions, with a strong focus on e-commerce and high-throughput distribution environments. The closing of the transaction is subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions regarding transactions of this type, including necessary regulatory approvals, and is expected to occur in the third quarter of 2026. Under the terms of the agreement Comau will acquire 100% of Invent shares.

After the acquisition of Automha, the binding agreement to acquire Invent represents a further step in Comau’s international expansion strategy and growth plan, which focuses on expanding competencies through the integration of complementary technologies and expertise.

The planned acquisition will complement the existing Comau–Automha ecosystem, reinforcing the companies’ fully integrated 360° automated warehouse and logistics offering. Combining Automha’s storage technologies with Invent’s intelligent orchestration software will allow Comau to further deliver fully integrated, AI-driven material handling solutions that span storage and order fulfillment to execution and intelligent flow management, thus accelerating implementation timelines while increasing system responsiveness and efficiency. In parallel, Invent will be able to scale-up and further develop its business by leveraging a broader geographical footprint and in-house technology competencies. Moreover, given that Comau and Invent are fully complementary, the relationship will strengthen the mutual portfolio of projects.

The acquisition will extend Comau’s global operations, with an enhanced presence in Latin America and in the U.S. mid-market intralogistics segment, both of which are characterized by strong demand for automation and potential CAGR of 13% over the next three to five years.

To ensure business continuity, Invent will continue to operate with the same structure, management and strategic vision.

“Expanding Comau’s capabilities through innovative companies such as Invent is a central pillar of our international growth strategy aimed at diversifying our competencies and technologies in different markets,” said Pietro Gorlier, CEO of Comau. “After the full integration of Automha, a leading Italian solutions provider in the fast-evolving Intralogistics market, the acquisition of Brazil-based Invent will generate further synergies, adding yet another element to our ability to connect storage and material handling with production. This is another concrete step in strengthening Comau’s position as a global automation hub.”

“By joining Comau, Invent will gain the opportunity to accelerate its growth while expanding the reach of its intralogistics solutions within a broader, global automation ecosystem,” said Leonardo Araki, CEO of Invent. “This agreement also allows us to combine our expertise with Comau’s advanced automation capabilities, creating new possibilities to enhance innovation, broaden our scale and deliver increasingly efficient and integrated logistics solutions to customers worldwide.”

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 18 May 2026: AD Ports Group (ADX: ADPORTS), a leading global enabler of integrated trade, industry and logistics solutions, today announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire MBS Logistics, a Germany-based global integrated logistics services provider, for an Enterprise Value of AED 300 million (EUR 70 million). The acquisition entails 100% ownership of MBS Logistics’ core business, excluding the company’s joint ventures, and represents another significant step in the Group’s strategy to enhance operational scale, manage larger volumes, and expand its global footprint.

MBS Logistics reported revenues of AED 870 million (EUR 205 million) in 2025 with industry margins, reflecting a diversified and asset-light business model, with core freight forwarding operations in Germany and Central Europe, and an established network across China, Vietnam and the USA.

The move builds on strong foundations and a global network established by Noatum Logistics, the Group’s logistics arm. Under the leadership of Jochen Thewes, the recently appointed CEO of its Logistics Cluster, the Group is pursuing an expansion strategy that combines organic growth with targeted, value accretive acquisitions.

The addition of MBS Logistics provides an important entry point into the vital Central European market through its well‑established network across key German multimodal logistics hubs, while broadening the Group’s trade lane offering. The combination increases network density and unlocks meaningful revenue and cost synergies through cross‑selling opportunities, greater procurement scale, and improved cost efficiency by managing shipments within the combined network. 

Jochen Thewes, CEO of the Logistics Cluster, AD Ports Group, said: “Bringing MBS Logistics into our ecosystem is the right move at the right time, especially as markets seek greater connectivity and resilience in an evolving global trade and logistics landscape. It provides us with an established operating platform with deep expertise and immediate access to key Central European and global logistics corridors. As the world’s third‑largest trading economy, Germany offers a strong domestic base and plays a central role in trade with the world’s leading economies. Linking it to our wider network will help us capture greater volumes, drive more competitive rates, and deliver the reliability our clients expect. Ultimately, the combined strengths of both organisations will allow us to raise our game and compete more effectively for major global accounts.”

With close to forty years of industry experience, MBS Logistics adds to the Group a network of 26 offices worldwide and a global team of over 450 professionals. The addition greatly supplements Noatum Logistics’ network of over 80 own offices located across 26 countries, supported by a team of over 4,250 industry specialists. MBS Logistics’ core freight forwarding services span air, ocean, road and rail transport, complemented by contract logistics, project cargo, customs and compliance, and time-critical multimodal solutions.

The company serves a wide range of industries including aerospace, automotive, apparel & footwear, retail & consumer goods, home furniture, e‑commerce, engineering, technology, FMCG, healthcare and several other key sectors. While aerospace represents a new segment for the Group, MBS Logistics’ exposure to the automotive sector across Central Europe enhances the Group’s logistics offering in an industry regarded as a key business driver.

Its core freight‑forwarding operations are anchored in Germany, giving the Group immediate access to major European logistics hubs. The country’s position as a key European and global logistics gateway provides a strong platform for further expansion across continental Europe, including the Nordics, BENELUX, Switzerland and Eastern Europe.

In addition, MBS Logistics’ presence across China and Vietnam further enhances the Group’s ability to manage greater cargo volumes on Europe-Asia and Trans-Pacific routes. It also operates offices on the USA’s eastern seaboard, furthering connectivity along Trans-Atlantic trade lanes.

Completion of the acquisition is subject to EU regulatory approvals and is expected to close in H2 2026.

ATLANTA, May 18, 2026 – Rōti Modern Mediterranean®, the fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant concept part of Edible Brands®, is turning its latest expansion into a global brand moment.

The company announced the launch of Global Rōti Day, a new annual celebration held on May 19. The event coincides with the brand’s strategic entry into the London market through three delivery-first kitchens, alongside an expansion in the Atlanta region with a new delivery-first store opening in Smyrna. Together, this moment introduces Rōti to new guests in the United Kingdom and United States while building awareness. The London locations also establish a foundation for future international growth.

Global Rōti Day was created to bring new and existing guests into the brand through a one-day-only, buy-one-get-one chef-curated bowl offer available in-store, online, via the Rōti app on the Apple Store and Google Play and through third-party delivery platforms such as DoorDash, Uber Eats and Grubhub. The first 50 guests at Rōti’s 17 traditional storefront restaurants will receive a limited-edition Rōti tote bag and a free beverage for a year. Participating restaurants will also feature spin wheel giveaways with prizes including free hummus and pita, branded T-shirts, a jackpot prize package, free cookies or $3 off a future entrée. In addition, guests ordering from Rōti’s delivery-first kitchens in London and Atlanta will receive $5 off future orders through the app or online. Across markets, guests are also invited to share how they Rōti with #ShowUsHowURōti on social media.

“What makes Rōti work is simple. It’s bold food, real hospitality and shows up the same way every time,” said Matthew Walls, president and chief stores officer of Edible Brands. “Atlanta is about building depth in a market we not only work in, but live in and believe in. London is about proving this brand can travel. Global Rōti Day lets us do both at once. We’re giving people a reason to try us, and once they do, that’s where it gets real. They connect with the food and the people behind it, and that’s what brings them back.”

Rōti’s London entry and Atlanta-area expansion reflect a broader strategy grounded in adaptability. The brand is growing through a mix of traditional restaurants and delivery-first kitchens, allowing it to enter new markets efficiently, generate early demand and meet guests through the channels they already use. The model supports a capital-conscious approach to expansion while maintaining a consistent guest experience.

For Edible Brands, Rōti represents a distinct growth opportunity within a portfolio built around food, hospitality and consumer connection. The brand benefits from shared infrastructure, including supply chain, technology and operational support, while maintaining its own identity.

“Rōti is a big part of where we are going as a company,” said Somia Farid Silber, chief executive officer of Edible Brands. “At Edible Brands, we are building a platform that brings together different food experiences in a way that feels relevant to how people eat and connect today. Rōti gives us the opportunity to do that in a new category, with a brand that can grow across markets and formats. Global Rōti Day is an example of how we bring that to new guests while continuing to build something that can scale over time.”

Seoul, orea  May 18 : Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced the One UI 9 beta program, launching this week beginning with the Galaxy S26 series. Built on the new Android 17, One UI 9 beta delivers expanded creative tools, customization options, a more accessible mobile experience and stronger protection against potential security threats.

The full experience of One UI 9 will be introduced with upcoming Galaxy flagship devices later this year, which will include advanced AI features that will make mobile interaction easy and effortless.

What’s New in One UI 9 Beta

One UI 9 beta introduces several updates across key areas of the mobile experience.

Samsung Notes gains creative new tools, including decorative tapes and a wider variety of pen line styles. Meanwhile, the Contacts app now offers direct access to Creative Studio for creating personalized profile cards without the need to switch between apps.

The updated Quick Panel gives users greater control over its layout. Brightness, sound and media player are each independently adjustable, with more size options to suit individual preferences.

Accessibility is significantly improved by an adjustable Mouse Key speed that enables smoother cursor control and a combined TalkBack package that brings together features previously offered separately by Google and Samsung. The new Text Spotlight feature  which displays selected text larger or more clearly in a floating window  has also been added to make reading easier.

One UI 9 also introduces enhanced protection against suspicious apps and potential threats: when new high-risk apps are detected, it now warns users, blocks execution and installation, and recommends deletion through security policy updates

Mumbai, India Digital creator and reality personality Nagma Mirajkar, widely known for her appearance on Bigg Boss, is set to make her Cannes Film Festival red carpet debut this year, marking a major milestone in her journey from digital influence to global fashion visibility.

Nagma has arrived in Cannes on 17th May 20269 (today), with her official red carpet appearance scheduled for 19th May 2026.

For her debut, she will be styled in a custom couture creation by internationally acclaimed designer Tasmim Zobaear, founder of TZ Studio, a Paris-based label known for its sculptural silhouettes, intricate craftsmanship, and fusion of South Asian heritage with modern French couture aesthetics.

Tasmim Zobaear is a designer who has built a strong presence in Paris, made his Paris Fashion Week debut in 2022 and has since been recognized for his evolving work within the global couture ecosystem. His design language is defined by architectural tailoring, feminine structure, and detailed embroidery, reflecting a seamless blend of heritage and contemporary luxury.

The collaboration between Nagma Mirajkar and TZ Studio at Cannes marks a cross-cultural fashion moment, bringing together digital-era influence and high couture craftsmanship on one of the world’s most prestigious red carpet platforms.

Zobaear’s recent showcases and Paris-based couture presence have positioned him as an emerging voice in international luxury fashion, further amplified through his bespoke red carpet creations for global events like Cannes.

This appearance signals a significant step in Nagma Mirajkar’s evolving journey as she transitions from digital entertainment and reality television into international fashion and red carpet storytelling.

“Cannes has always felt like a dream that belongs to cinema and couture. Stepping onto this red carpet is not just a moment of visibility for me, but a celebration of how far my journey has come from digital screens to a global stage. I’m incredibly excited to be wearing a creation that reflects both craftsmanship and emotion.” — Nagma Mirajkar

Bhubaneswar, May 18 (BNP): The Securities and Exchange Board of India will soon establish a branch office in Bhubaneswar, marking a significant step toward strengthening financial market regulation and investor outreach in eastern India. The announcement was made by SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey while addressing a regional investor awareness programme organized by the Association of Mutual Funds in India in the city.

Pandey said SEBI would initially begin operations from a smaller office in Bhubaneswar, with activities currently managed through Mumbai and Kolkata gradually shifting to the new centre. He added that plans are also underway to establish a permanent office in the state capital in the future.

Highlighting the growing relevance of alternative financing mechanisms, the SEBI Chairman encouraged Odisha to explore the use of municipal bonds to fund urban infrastructure and development projects. He noted that 22 urban local bodies across the country have issued 33 municipal bonds, mobilizing nearly Rs 4,500 crore for development activities. Municipal corporations in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh have already benefited from the model, he said.

Pandey emphasized that Odisha, with its expanding urban landscape, should leverage municipal bonds to meet increasing financial requirements for infrastructure expansion. He also pointed out that the Central government offers grant-based incentives to encourage such bond issuances.

Speaking on the growth of India’s mutual fund industry, Pandey said the sector has expanded significantly from nearly Rs 12 lakh crore in 2015-16 to around Rs 82 lakh crore at present. Odisha’s contribution currently stands at about Rs 71,000 crore, accounting for less than one per cent of the national market.

Observing that Odisha contributes nearly three per cent to India’s economy, he said the state’s participation in the mutual fund ecosystem should also rise proportionately. At the same time, he noted that Odisha remains among the leading states in terms of monthly growth in Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) investments.

He further highlighted the rapid growth of India’s capital market over the past decade, stating that the country’s total market capitalization increased from Rs 95 lakh crore in 2015-16 to Rs 463 lakh crore in 2025-26. During the same period, the number of investors rose from 3.8 crore to 14.5 crore.

Pandey also said India recorded 366 Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in 2025-26, through which companies raised nearly Rs 1.9 lakh crore, placing the country among global leaders in IPO activity.

Mumbai,  May 18 : India’s largest amusement and water park operator has approved a strategic investment of up to ₹100 crore in Shanku’s Water Park, a leading leisure destination in Mehsana, Gujarat, near Ahmedabad. This investment marks a significant step in the company’s nationwide expansion strategy, strengthening its presence in high-growth regional markets and reinforcing its long-term vision of building a diversified, customer-centric leisure ecosystem across India. With strong connectivity to key catchment areas including Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Mehsana and surrounding regions, Shanku’s offers a compelling platform to enhance customer experiences, drive tourism-led growth, and expand access to organized family entertainment in Gujarat.

The Park is spread across 25+ acres with over 25 rides and attractions, Shanku’s is one of Gujarat’s largest and most established water parks, with strong access to Ahmedabad, Mehsana, Gandhinagar and surrounding catchments. The park has recently undergone extensive renovation and modernization, including advanced water filtration systems comparable to Imagicaa’s flagship Khopoli park.

The investment will be made through a mix of equity and debt, including capital for future expansion on adjoining surplus land. Imagicaaworld will also provide end-to-end Operations & Management services across park operations, guest experience, safety systems, F&B and revenue optimization, earning a management fee of 6%–10%, while leveraging its expertise to enhance performance and scale the destination further.

These developments mark Imagicaa’s strategic expansion beyond destination parks into scalable, high-margin formats. The company recently announced its Q4FY26 results where revenue from operations stood at ₹91.9 crore with a significant increase in footfalls by 5% year-on-year to 6.21 lakh visitors, while continuing to witness steady consumer demand across its existing parks.

Commenting on the development, Jai Malpani, Managing Director, Imagicaaworld Entertainment Limited, said,

 “This transaction represents an important milestone in Imagicaaworld’s growth strategy as we deepen our footprint in Gujarat, one of India’s fastest growing leisure and tourism markets. Gujarat has a strong consumer base, rising discretionary spending and significant long-term potential for organized entertainment destinations.

Shanku’s Water Park is a well-established destination with high-quality infrastructure, strong regional recall and significant growth potential. Strategically located within a one-hour radius of Ahmedabad and GIFT City, this asset sits at the crossroads of commercial growth and weekend tourism.

Through this partnership structure, we aim to leverage Imagicaaworld’s operational expertise and brand capabilities to further enhance guest experiences, drive footfalls and create long-term value for stakeholders.”