News Hub | News Direct

Bloomsbury Publishing on the lookout for acquisitions after another strong first half

Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Bloomsbury Publishing PLC (LSE:BMY) founder and chief executive Nigel Newton CBE speaks to Thomas Warner from Proactive after the leading independent publishing house published its interim results for the six months to 31 August 2023. Newton starts by saying that the team is "thrilled to have its fourth consecutive double-digit growth performance in both sales and profits" for one of its first halves, adding that the decision to branch out into academic publishing has given the company an almost uniquely well-balanced calendar that protects from the more typical heavy weighting of sales toward the Christmas season. He goes on to explain more about how Bloomsbury has been delivering organic growth, highlighting the strong performance of its fantasy offering and hinting at further investment in the genre as well as in science fiction. The company announced in its interim statement that it currently holds around £39.1mln in cash, and Newton says that having already completed more than 30 acquisitions Bloomsbury remains on the lookout for fresh opportunities. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

October 31, 2023 05:58 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video

News Release

Vertiqal Studios Over the Top content outperforming expectation in 2023

Vertiqal Studios

Vertiqal Studios CEO Jon Dwyer joined Steve Darling from Proactive to share significant updates for the company in its Over the Top (OTT) content. Vertiqal Studios has reported consistent growth in monthly recurring revenues from its OTT shows during the first three quarters of 2023. The company currently offers more than 50 shows and plans to expand its portfolio with over 40 additional shows, demonstrating its commitment to providing diverse and compelling content across various topics. The company has achieved better-than-expected results, including a 13% increase in 1Q, a 40% increase in 2Q, and a 7.5% increase in 3Q. Vertiqal Studios has reached a milestone of C$2.5 million in monthly recurring revenue. The company anticipates further milestones in the upcoming quarters as it continues to innovate in the digital media landscape. Vertiqal Studios has maintained a healthy OTT gross margin, standing at approximately 83.61% after accounting for all current costs. These updates highlight Vertiqal Studios' impressive growth and strong performance in the OTT industry. Contact Details Proactive Investors +1 604-688-8158 na-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

October 30, 2023 02:21 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Video

Comcast Completes Initial Phase of Multi-Million-Dollar Broadband Expansion to 700 Homes and Businesses In Mt. Angel, Oregon

Comcast Oregon / SW Washington

Comcast today announced the company completed the initial phase of its expansion to bring its smart, fast, reliable fiber-rich Xfinity 10G Network to 700 homes and businesses in Mt. Angel, Oregon. Comcast began construction in May 2023 and expects to extend its network to more than 300 additional homes and businesses over the next year. As part of its commitment to connect more homes in Oregon, the expansion brings residential broadband speeds faster than 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) and business speeds up to 100 Gbps. Comcast’s planned network in Mt. Angel is the latest example of the company’s investment in Oregon. This year to date, Comcast expanded broadband service to more than 5,000 additional homes and businesses in Oregon, with major network expansion projects in Marion, Multnomah & Washington Counties. Further, Comcast has invested $534M in technology and infrastructure in Oregon during the last three years, including upgrades to our network. “Connecting people to the power of technology is important and life-changing,” said Rodrigo Lopez, Senior Regional Vice President of Comcast’s Pacific Northwest Region. That is why Comcast is investing $280 million this year to expand broadband and video services to more than 60,000 additional homes and businesses, enhance our network to offer multi-gigabit Internet speeds, and advance digital equity in communities throughout Oregon and Washington.” Residential customers are now able to take advantage of Xfinity’s full suite of internet products, including the company’s Internet Essentials program that provides low-cost, high-speed broadband for income-constrained households. Since its inception in 2011, the program has connected more than 4,000 Oregon residents, many for the first time. Comcast also participates in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides qualifying households with a $30 monthly credit toward internet and mobile services. Powered by the Xfinity 10G Network Comcast’s network and Internet experience are powering homes and businesses today and into the future: Ultimate Capacity: Xfinity customers connect nearly 1 billion devices across the company’s network annually. The Xfinity 10G Network with the next-generation Xfinity gateways deliver the most advanced WiFi technology carrying three times more bandwidth to power streaming, gaming, videoconferencing, and more, simultaneously. Fastest Internet: More than a third of Xfinity Internet customers subscribe to gigabit speed products, and symmetrical gig speeds are planned to come to the first homes later this year. Unprecedented Coverage: The latest Xfinity Gateway provides a more reliable connection throughout the home. Customers can get wall-to-wall WiFi coverage with a powerful Xfinity WiFi Boost Pod that extends coverage to hard-to-reach areas, with plans for an offering of increased support for in-home WiFi through a “boost guarantee” later this year. Most Reliable Connection: Comcast is scaling the nation’s largest and most reliable network – the Xfinity 10G Network – that passes 60 million homes and businesses and counting. The company plans to launch a new device that is “storm ready” with cellular and battery backup to help keep customers connected even when the power goes out. Ultra-Low Latency: The Xfinity 10G Network and the latest Xfinity Gateway are a powerful combination that deliver ultra-low latency for those moments when response times matter most like video games, a fast-growing category with Xfinity households averaging more than one gaming console per home. For local businesses, Comcast Business offers a suite of connectivity, cybersecurity, managed solutions, and Comcast Business Mobile products designed specifically for their employee’s needs. Powered by the nation’s largest Gig-speed broadband network, and backed by 24/7 customer support, Comcast Business is the nation’s largest cable and Internet provider to small and mid-size businesses and one of the leading providers to larger organizations in the Enterprise market. Comcast Business has been consistently recognized by industry analysts and associations as a leader and innovator, and one of the fastest-growing providers of Ethernet services. Developers, municipalities, and businesses that are interested in partnering with Comcast to extend internet services in their area may contact the company’s Business Development Group at PNRBusinessDevelopmentGroup@comcast.com. Comcast’s Business Development Group identifies commercial and residential expansion opportunities and collaborates with local communities to grow high-speed broadband internet availability and adoption. Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Rachael Arnold Rachael_Arnold@Comcast.com Company Website https://oregon.comcast.com/

October 30, 2023 10:42 AM Pacific Daylight Time

Doctor Troller's Artwork Fetches $3 Million, Ushering a New Era of Digital Artistry

Doctor Troller

Digital artist Andrew Brown AKA “Doctor Troller” just announced the recent sale of his Gold Shifter painting for a staggering $3 million. The art piece is signed by Brown himself, and comes with a certificate of authenticity. As a prelude to the opening of his art gallery in Soho, this sale accentuates the unique and disruptive narrative that Doctor Troller brings to the traditional art milieu. Enthusiasts and new artists alike await with bated breath the unveiling of his gallery, which promises to be a confluence of audacious creativity and digital innovation. The Ascent of Doctor Troller in Digital Artistry Nurtured in the cultural crucible of London, Andrew "Doctor Troller" Brown’s artistry is a riveting blend of rebellion and innovation. His Chelsea-based endeavors have seen the birth of provocative digital pieces, igniting controversies and sparking debates across both traditional and digital art spheres. His dyslexia, far from a hurdle, propelled him beyond conventional mediums, crafting a narrative that bridges art and body, borne from a "passion of expression through physical action to trigger controversy." His ascent to a net worth of £200 million GBP in 2021 mirrors the crescendo of digital art’s acclaim, marking him as a vanguard in this realm. His artworks, veiled in satire and bold commentary, found their home in digital marketplaces and even traditional auction houses, echoing the appetite for digital artistry in contemporary circles. Pieces like 'Booty Shot' and 'Lightzilla' aren’t mere digital creations, but audacious dialogues challenging societal norms and igniting discussions on empowerment, identity, and the human experience. The recent sale of his artwork for a staggering $3 million underscores the value and desirability enveloping Doctor Troller's creations, heralding an era where digital artistry intertwines with traditional art narratives, challenging the status quo and inviting a discourse that transcends conventional art boundaries. Delving into the Persona of Doctor Troller A troller by nature, a disruptor by choice, and an artist by destiny. Andrew "Doctor Troller" Brown is not just a name but a phenomenon in the digital art realm. His very essence seems to challenge the norm, provoke the conventional, and enthrall the rebel. Born and bred in London's bustling art scene, the streets were his canvas, the public, his muse. His Chelsea abode is not merely a residence, but a forge where digital artistry meets audacious creativity. Dyslexia didn't deter him; it fueled his journey beyond the conventional, driving him to transcend traditional art forms and venture into the boundless realm of digital expression. His creations aren’t just pieces of art; they are dialogues, debates, and disruptions. They challenge societal norms and ignite discussions on empowerment, identity, and the human psyche. Doctor Troller doesn’t just create art; he crafts narratives that challenge, disrupt, and evoke. His inflammatory videos and surreal digital creations are not mere visuals but a rebellion against the conventional and a voice for the unspoken. Doctor Troller’s artistry is a voyage into the unknown, a dive into the abyss of societal norms, and a peek into the future of digital artistry. Contact Details Doctor Troller Doctor Troller +44 333 355 3548 maya@moneysource.com Company Website https://www.doctortroller.com/

October 30, 2023 11:10 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image

Doctor Troller's Artwork Fetches $3 Million, Ushering a New Era of Digital Artistry

Doctor Troller

Digital artist Andrew Brown AKA “Doctor Troller” just announced the recent sale of his Gold Shifter painting for a staggering $3 million. The art piece is signed by Brown himself, and comes with a certificate of authenticity. As a prelude to the opening of his art gallery in Soho, this sale accentuates the unique and disruptive narrative that Doctor Troller brings to the traditional art milieu. Enthusiasts and new artists alike await with bated breath the unveiling of his gallery, which promises to be a confluence of audacious creativity and digital innovation. The Ascent of Doctor Troller in Digital Artistry Nurtured in the cultural crucible of London, Andrew "Doctor Troller" Brown’s artistry is a riveting blend of rebellion and innovation. His Chelsea-based endeavors have seen the birth of provocative digital pieces, igniting controversies and sparking debates across both traditional and digital art spheres. His dyslexia, far from a hurdle, propelled him beyond conventional mediums, crafting a narrative that bridges art and body, borne from a "passion of expression through physical action to trigger controversy." His ascent to a net worth of £200 million GBP in 2021 mirrors the crescendo of digital art’s acclaim, marking him as a vanguard in this realm. His artworks, veiled in satire and bold commentary, found their home in digital marketplaces and even traditional auction houses, echoing the appetite for digital artistry in contemporary circles. Pieces like 'Booty Shot' and 'Lightzilla' aren’t mere digital creations, but audacious dialogues challenging societal norms and igniting discussions on empowerment, identity, and the human experience. The recent sale of his artwork for a staggering $3 million underscores the value and desirability enveloping Doctor Troller's creations, heralding an era where digital artistry intertwines with traditional art narratives, challenging the status quo and inviting a discourse that transcends conventional art boundaries. Delving into the Persona of Doctor Troller A troller by nature, a disruptor by choice, and an artist by destiny. Andrew "Doctor Troller" Brown is not just a name but a phenomenon in the digital art realm. His very essence seems to challenge the norm, provoke the conventional, and enthrall the rebel. Born and bred in London's bustling art scene, the streets were his canvas, the public, his muse. His Chelsea abode is not merely a residence, but a forge where digital artistry meets audacious creativity. Dyslexia didn't deter him; it fueled his journey beyond the conventional, driving him to transcend traditional art forms and venture into the boundless realm of digital expression. His creations aren’t just pieces of art; they are dialogues, debates, and disruptions. They challenge societal norms and ignite discussions on empowerment, identity, and the human psyche. Doctor Troller doesn’t just create art; he crafts narratives that challenge, disrupt, and evoke. His inflammatory videos and surreal digital creations are not mere visuals but a rebellion against the conventional and a voice for the unspoken. Doctor Troller’s artistry is a voyage into the unknown, a dive into the abyss of societal norms, and a peek into the future of digital artistry. Contact Details Doctor Troller Doctor Troller +44 333 355 3548 maya@moneysource.com Company Website https://www.doctortroller.com/

October 30, 2023 11:08 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image

Mailbox Express Elevates Customer Interactions Using Comcast Business Technology

Comcast Colorado

“We knew Mailbox Express was special when we worked with Lorraine throughout the Comcast RISE program,” said Robert Thompson, vice president of business services for Comcast’s Mountain West Region. “We are proud that she wanted to continue her relationship with our team, and that our technology solutions are supporting her, and as an extension, her customers with the variety of needs that they have.” Comcast Business today announced that it is providing Mailbox Express with technology solutions – including Comcast Business Internet with Connection Pro, Voice Mobility and Comcast Business SecurityEdge™ – that help the small business provide quality customer service as well as reliable internet access to customers who visit the location. Lorraine Hall, owner of Mailbox Express, bought the company in 2020 with the goal of providing packing, shipping, printing and business service needs to the residents and businesses of Thornton, Colorado. With only one other part-time contractor to help when the business gets particularly busy, Mailbox Express operates primarily as a one-woman business. Customers come to the Colorado-based storefront for a myriad of services, including but not limited to shipping and receiving packages, renting a P.O. Box, renting computers, scanning documents and printing brochures. Because Hall took over Mailbox Express during the height of the pandemic, she was challenged to create awareness for her new business among a community that was not initially able to visit her storefront when it first opened. Thanks to the support provided by the Comcast RISE program, Hall successfully created a television advertisement that educated potential customers on her new ownership of Mailbox Express and the various services that the company offers. While Mailbox Express’ relationship with Comcast Business started with Comcast RISE, Hall chose to stay with Comcast Business as a provider when her support from the program expired because she saw the quality of solutions and support she was receiving. “My business is about so much more than shipping. Many of my customers are older and not familiar with the process of attaining and printing a shipping label, and some are younger customers who need help sending a fax. The services that I offer are possible thanks to the services that Comcast Business provides,” said Hall. “I once had a customer let me know that my computer system was more accessible than the public library. That is some seriously high praise, and a testament to the quality of Comcast Business’ technology solutions.” The technology solutions provided by Comcast Business are tailored to suit Mailbox Express, which relies heavily on technology to ensure support for Hall and her team member, as well as a quality customer experience. Because her business has access to data, implementing SecurityEdge™ solutions was critical to help protect her connected devices. And since there are only ever two employees operating the shipping facility, Voice Mobility has given Hall the flexibility to intercept Mailbox Express’ calls from anywhere. The addition of Connection Pro to Mailbox Express’ technology suite provides powerful 4G LTE backup, giving Hall confidence that she has help to maintain operations during unexpected network outages. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on connectivity, aggregation, and streaming with 57 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Leslie Oliver +1 303-810-6326 leslie_oliver@comcast.com FINN Partners Chloe Huard chloe.huard@finnpartners.com Company Website https://business.comcast.com/

October 30, 2023 09:04 AM Mountain Daylight Time

New Business Owner Chris Greene Buys Alloy Printing, Opens Minuteman Press Franchise in White Plains, NY

Minuteman Press International Inc

In April of 2023, Chris Greene made the decision to switch gears and become a business owner. That is when Chris purchased over 40-year business Alloy Printing from Mary Jane and Alan Goldman, which is now operating as the new Minuteman Press franchise in White Plains, NY. The business remains located at 190 East Post Rd., White Plains, NY 10601, a 6,000 sq. ft. facility where it has been operating since 1995. Since buying the business, Chris has already hit several key milestones for Minuteman Press in White Plains. He attributes his sales growth to picking up where the previous owners of Alloy Printing left off – by joining local business organizations and maintaining existing client relationships. Chris has also been building on his established client base by marketing additional products and services such as custom branded apparel. History of Alloy Printing Mary Jane Goldman first joined the printing industry in 1979 when she opened a PIP Printing location in Yonkers. She moved the center to its current location at 190 East Post Rd. in 1995, and then eventually transitioned the business to an independent operation, Alloy Printing. Prior to owning the business, Mary Jane worked as a nurse for 11 years before looking for a change. In a previous interview with The Examiner, Mary Jane explained, “My options were open. I was taking a sabbatical. I could always go back to nursing. My parents had friends that were in printing and did very, very well. And I decided that would be a challenge that I would like to take on.” After initially expanding to three locations, the Goldmans decided to focus only on their White Plains location, where they had been residents since 1987. Mary Jane shared, “Sometimes more isn’t always better.” Alan noted, “[White Plains] is the center of the county. It’s the county seat. It’s where all the action is.” During their years in business, Mary Jane and Alan were active in several local groups including the White Plains Downtown Business Improvement District and many more. New owner Chris Greene has followed their lead, saying, “I was just appointed to the Board of the White Plains Downtown Business Improvement District and am also a member of the Business Council of Westchester. I have found these groups to be very beneficial in terms of networking and building/keeping relationships.” One thing that has never changed in over 40 years is the fact that people need and use print. Alan shared with The Examiner, “We’re supposed to be a more paperless society. But we find it’s not a paperless society.” In the interview, he added, “The internet doesn’t serve what we produce. We’re more of a hands-on, come in, sit down, let’s go over it. What can we do? How can we help? How can we both work together to produce what you want and make you successful? Because if you’re successful, we’re successful.” Welcome to Minuteman Press, White Plains Prior to buying the business, Chris Greene worked in corporate advertising, sales, and marketing. Chris shares, “The three biggest reasons I chose to buy Alloy Printing and transition to Minuteman Press are: My desire to be a business owner and move out of the corporate world; I look at the printing industry as an offshoot to what I was doing in my advertising career; The quality of my experience in learning about Minuteman Press and Alloy Printing.” Chris adds, “The training and support from Minuteman Press has been great. The training helped me develop a solid base of knowledge on how to operate a print business. When I’ve needed support in terms of learning or ramping up my marketing, my RVP Jim Galasso and the entire team have been great in giving me direction. It has been a positive experience all the way around.” When reflecting on the first six-plus months, Chris shares, “When I first started, my number one priority was to reassure our existing customer base that the high quality and customer service that they previously had was not going anywhere. As we look towards further growth, the first area we’ve grown from a product standpoint has been apparel, which we are actively marketing.” He adds, “For me, it’s not about being the boss as much as it’s about how I am spending my day. I enjoy giving our customers the products that we make. That the finished products are directly associated with my ownership of the business is very rewarding.” Minuteman Press in White Plains is located at 190 East Post Rd., White Plains, NY 10601. For more information, visit their website: https://minuteman.com/us/locations/ny/white-plains Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com To learn about selling your printing business through Minuteman Press at no cost or broker fees to you, visit https://sellyourprintingbusiness.com Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

October 30, 2023 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image

Crisis Protection Network Rebrands as “Reputation Advisors International”

Reputation Advisors International

The Crisis Protection Network, a worldwide association of distinguished communications professionals, today announced its new name: Reputation Advisors International The name change, which was adopted at the Network’s annual meeting in London on October 12, 2023, reflects the broadening scope of the Network as it looks to foster a “360-degree approach” to reputation management and reputational risk mitigation. “Effective management of reputational risk is more than just planning and responding in the event of a crisis,” James F. Haggerty, President of Reputation Advisors International, said. “It requires the establishment and maintenance of reputation management protocols that ensure the preservation of trust, credibility and brand equity in a complex, global business environment.” Membership in the Network is composed of leaders at independent strategic communications firms who bring unparalleled depth and diversity of knowledge to their work. Network members have previously served in senior positions at some of the world’s largest public relations agencies, as well as in corporations, major media outlets, law firms, and governmental organizations. Through regular collaboration and consultations, members share knowledge and perspectives to ensure their clients receive thoroughly vetted strategies for brand development, reputation management, and crisis and litigation communications response. Among the topics discussed at the Network’s annual meeting in London was effective communications training and response to cyber crises (including ransomware attacks), the role of the European Union in setting global standards in such areas as competition, energy and the environment, and current conditions in the APAC (Asia-Pacific) region. Network members also discussed reputation management issues in sports, as well as energy, the environment and the role of ESG (Environment, Social and Governance) principles in effect brand management. Haggerty added: “Through Reputation Advisors International, our member firms bring a depth of experience and breadth of resources that we believe is unrivaled by any strategic communications organization of its kind worldwide.” The Network currently has members in 16 cities across the globe, including Brussels, Chiasso, Chicago, Dublin, Frankfurt, Geneva, London, Los Angeles, Melbourne, Munich, New York, Oslo, Singapore, Sydney, Toronto, and Zurich. To learn more about Reputation Advisors International, visit: www.reputationadvisors.net. Contact Details Reputation Advisors International Juliette Foyle +1 212-683-8100 jfoyle@prcg.com Company Website https://reputationadvisors.net/

October 30, 2023 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image

QYOU India's QPlay+ Expands Connected TV Distribution Via Global Partnership with Coolita

QYOU Media

Contact Details Doug Barker +1 437-992-4814 shareholder@qyoutv.com Company Website https://www.valuethemarkets.com

October 30, 2023 09:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video

Communications

Bloomsbury Publishing on the lookout for acquisitions after another strong first half

Vertiqal Studios Over the Top content outperforming expectation in 2023

Comcast Completes Initial Phase of Multi-Million-Dollar Broadband Expansion to 700 Homes and Businesses In Mt. Angel, Oregon

Doctor Troller's Artwork Fetches $3 Million, Ushering a New Era of Digital Artistry

Doctor Troller's Artwork Fetches $3 Million, Ushering a New Era of Digital Artistry

Mailbox Express Elevates Customer Interactions Using Comcast Business Technology

New Business Owner Chris Greene Buys Alloy Printing, Opens Minuteman Press Franchise in White Plains, NY

Crisis Protection Network Rebrands as “Reputation Advisors International”

QYOU India's QPlay+ Expands Connected TV Distribution Via Global Partnership with Coolita