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International Franchise Association’s Annual Convention Shines Spotlight on Industry Leaders Shaping the Future

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Batteries Plus Chief Development Officer to Share Expertise on Managing Turnover and Maintaining Healthy Pipelines

Anticipation surrounds 2024 International Franchise Association’s (IFA) annual convention, featuring renowned figures in the franchising industry, keynote speakers, panels, and educational breakout sessions.Batteries Plus, a leading franchise in battery retail, to present its Chief Development Officer, Joe Malmuth, as an industry expert as a panelist and roundtable facilitator. Malmuth, a key panelist, will discuss turnover numbers and strategies for developing and maintaining a robust franchise pipeline.

HARTLAND, Wis., Feb. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The 2024 International Franchise Association’s (IFA) highly anticipated annual convention is slated to kick off this coming weekend in Phoenix, Arizona. The can’t-miss event will welcome some of franchising’s biggest names for a jam-packed event featuring keynote speakers, panels and educational breakout sessions. With no shortage of knowledge to share, Batteries Plus, the world’s leading consumer and business specialty battery franchise, will showcase its very own Chief Development Officer, Joe Malmuth, as a panelist and roundtable facilitator.

Aimed at helping attendees develop a deeper understanding of franchising, learn better lead capture and closure techniques, and develop effective franchisee strategies, the Franchise Development track is one of the most popular of the convention. Joe Malmuth will be featured on a panel of his peers focused on discussing turnover numbers and how brands can develop and maintain a healthy sales pipeline. Malmuth will also be featured as a roundtable facilitator at the convention.

“The IFA is undoubtably the most influential conference of the year, and whether you are a franchisor, franchisee or supplier, it is simply a must-attend event,” said Joe Malmuth, Chief Development Officer for Batteries Plus. “At Batteries Plus, we know we have something special when it comes to development and growth, and I look forward to sharing the strategies we’ve developed in person to help others find sustainable, long-term solutions to ensure their brands continue to grow and thrive.”

The IFA began in 1960 as a meeting between a small group of entrepreneurs to discuss the state of franchising. Over the next 60+ years, the organization has continued to grow, offering more resources, advocacy, investment and educational opportunities for those in the industry. The annual convention will welcome more than 4,000 franchise professionals and is sure to be the place for professional development and learning about new franchise industry trends.

With over 800 store locations in operation and development nationwide, Batteries Plus has carved out a unique niche in the industry with its ‘plus’ services – including cell phone repair and key fob replacement. Positioned for the battery-powered future, Batteries Plus was ranked on Franchise Times Top 400 list, coming in at #130. Plus, the brand ranked on Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 list, gaining 40 spots from last year’s ranking, an overall improvement of 162 spots over the past three years, for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power.

For more information on Batteries Plus and its franchise opportunities, visit batteriesplusfranchise.com. 

ABOUT BATTERIES PLUS:
Batteries Plus, founded in 1988 and headquartered in Hartland, WI, is a leading omnichannel retailer of batteries, specialty light bulbs and phone repair services for the direct-to-consumer and commercial channels. The retailer also offers key programming, replacement and cutting services. Through a nationwide network of stores, the company offers a differentiated value proposition of unrivaled product selection, in-stock availability and customer service. Batteries Plus is owned by Freeman Spogli, a private equity firm based in Los Angeles and New York City. To learn more about one of Forbes®’ Best Franchises to Buy in America, visit https://www.batteriesplusfranchise.com.

MEDIA CONTACT: Julianne Stevenson, Fishman Public Relations, jstevenson@fishmanpr.com or 224-558-2510

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SOURCE Batteries Plus

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Strategic LiDAR Customer Initiates Production Orders with Sivers Semiconductors

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Shipments will begin in Q4 2026 against rolling production orders as the automotive and industrial sensing programs move into production phase in 2027

KISTA, Sweden, Oct. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sivers Semiconductors AB (STO: SIVE), a global leader in photonics and wireless technologies, today announced that its strategic LiDAR customer has initiated production orders for its automotive and industrial sensing customers.

Sivers will supply the continuous-wave distributed feedback (CW DFB) lasers and optical amplifiers powering the customer’s LiDAR platforms, positioning the company to support growing demand as production scales.

“We are pleased to see this strategic program advance from design-win to production, with our customer placing first production orders,” said Alex McCann, Managing Director of Sivers Semiconductors’ photonics business. “This key milestone reflects confidence in our technology, our production facility and its reliability to meet the customer’s requirements for volume production. As the program scales, we expect rolling production orders placed to lead times, in line with our customer’s multi-year production forecasts.”

As announced in March 2026, the program represents a significant long-term opportunity, with estimated cumulative revenue potential of USD 53 million to USD 138 million over the customer’s product lifecycle. The opportunity comes amid strong growth in automotive LiDAR, with Yole Group projecting the global market to expand from USD 861 million in 2024 to USD 3.8 billion by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate of 28 percent. Beyond automotive applications, LiDAR is gaining traction in industrial markets, including robotics and autonomous machinery.

For more information, please visit https://www.sivers-semiconductors.com/. 

About Sivers Semiconductors

We are Critical Enablers of a Greener Data Economy with Energy Efficient Photonics & Wireless Solutions. Our differentiated high-precision laser and RF beamformer technologies help our customers in key markets such as AI Data Centers, SATCOM, Defense, and Telecom solve essential performance challenges while enabling a much greener footprint. Visit us at: www.sivers-semiconductors.com.

Forward-looking statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding expected orders, the timing and scale of the customer’s production ramp, deliveries, market development and revenue potential. Such statements are based on current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the customer’s production plans, end-market demand and Sivers’ manufacturing capacity, which could cause actual results to differ materially. Sivers undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable law.

Media Contact
Tyler Weiland 
Shelton Group
+1-972-571-7834
tweiland@sheltongroup.com

Company Contact
Heine Thorsgaard
CFO 
ir@sivers-semiconductors.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/sivers-semiconductors/r/strategic-lidar-customer-initiates-production-orders-with-sivers-semiconductors,c4411825

 

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SOURCE Sivers Semiconductors

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Segway Powersports Returns to EICMA for Fifth Year with Model Year 2027 Lineup and New Off-Road Innovations

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MILAN, Oct. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Segway Powersports is heading back to EICMA for fifth appearance, with new off-road innovations that reflect its “Fear No Place” philosophy. On November 3, the brand will unveil its Model Year 2027 (MY2027) lineup at a product launch in Milan. From upgraded ATVs to the debut of its new flagship two-row UTV and next-generation of iFUN system connected technology, the preview promises exciting developments in design, performance and the riding experience.

Segway Powersports will occupy approximately 880 square meters at EICMA 2026, setting the stage for its upcoming product launch:

Location: Hall 14, Booth I06Launch Date & Time: November 3 at 3:30 p.m. (Milan local time)

For Segway Powersports, off-road riding has always been about more than reaching a destination. It’s about taking on unfamiliar terrain with confidence and discovering new possibilities along the way. As Segway’s professional-grade, high-performance powersports line for global markets, the brand is built around the qualities riders depend on when conditions get tough: strong performance, reliable durability and confident handling.

Expertise, the pursuit of excellence and a spirit of exploration are at the heart of Segway Powersports. Together, these values shape the brand’s “Fear No Place” philosophy and its drive to push riding capabilities further. EICMA offers another opportunity to bring that philosophy into sharper focus and strengthen the brand’s identity in the global powersports market.

Beyond performance, Segway Powersports is forging a distinct visual identity anchored by Rider Red——its signature color-paired with the dedicated Segway Powersports logo. Consistently applied across vehicle designs and brand materials, the color creates a bold, instantly recognizable brand presence.

At this year’s EICMA, the MY2027 lineup will take center stage. Fresh designs, stronger performance and a more engaging riding experience are the key upgrades to look forward to.  Meanwhile, the new flagship two-row UTV will make its Milan debut with an all-weather cabin comfort concept.

Smart connectivity will be another highlight. The next-generation connect system iFUN will make interactions between riders and their vehicles smarter and more intuitive.

With the upcoming launch, Segway Powersports aims to offer a more complete off-road lineup for a wider range of terrains and riding needs. From trail adventures and outings with companions to practical tasks, the expanded range gives riders more ways to make the most of every journey.

The Segway Powersports booth will also feature a special highlight: a race-prepared vehicle that claimed second place in the SSV class at the 2026 European Bajas Championship. Visitors can get a closer look at the race vehicle and a taste of competitive off-road racing.

Media, dealers, partners and consumers are invited to follow the Segway Powersports product launch on November 3 at 3:30 p.m. (Milan local time) in Hall 14, Booth I06 and discover what’s next for Segway Powersports.

About Segway Powersports

Segway Powersports is Segway’s professional-grade, high-performance powersports line for global markets. Guided by expertise, the pursuit of excellence and a spirit of exploration, the brand develops off-road vehicles that combine powerful performance, strong torque, reliable durability and responsive handling. Built for diverse and demanding terrain, its vehicles give riders the confidence to take on new challenges, reflecting the brand’s “Fear No Place” philosophy.

Contact: media@powersports.segway.com 

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ShaMaran Announces Investment in Iraq and Contemplated Bond Issuance

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HAMILTON, Bermuda, Oct. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ShaMaran Petroleum Ltd. (“ShaMaran” or the “Company”) (Euronext Growth Oslo: SNM) (Nasdaq First North Stockholm: SNM) announces the expansion of the Company’s strategic collaboration with HKN Energy (“HKN”) into Federal Iraq. Building on their joint ventures across the Atrush and Sarsang oil fields in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, HKN and ShaMaran are extending their cooperation into Federal Iraq through the Hamrin oil development and production contract (“DPC”). PDF Version 

As part of this expansion, ShaMaran will have a 25% shareholding in HKN Hamrin Ltd. (the “Hamrin JV”), the joint venture company holding 100% of the Hamrin DPC. HKN, as the operator of the field, will leverage its operational expertise and established relationship with ShaMaran to advance a major long-term development program.

The Hamrin field is a large discovered and producing oil field previously operated by North Oil Company, an Iraqi state-owned oil company. HKN and ShaMaran will further develop the field with the aim of increasing production above the current 20 Mbopd to maximize recovery over the 25-year term of the DPC. The operator’s and management’s current estimate of remaining gross reserves and resources is in the range of 500 million to one billion barrels. The initial phase of development will target lifting field production to approximately 60 Mbopd by 2028. Further phases of development could target more than doubling those initial production levels, with currently estimated capex for later phases in the range of $2-3 per incremental barrel.

Garrett Soden, Chief Executive Officer of ShaMaran, commented, “The Hamrin investment is a natural extension of our cooperation with HKN, the operator of our two existing assets in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The Hamrin field in Federal Iraq is complementary to our existing Kurdistan production and reserves profile, and we expect material synergies from having the same team operate all three assets. Together with HKN, we are committed to increasing Hamrin production to create significant value for Iraq and our shareholders.”

The Hamrin JV farm-in consideration comprises a $35 million carry by ShaMaran of HKN’s share of initial costs in the Hamrin co-venture, with a further $15 million payable out of future cash flow once ShaMaran has recovered its initial investment and carry in full.

Financing – Contemplated Bond Issuance

Elvis Pellumbi, Chief Financial Officer of ShaMaran, commented, “On the back of the attractive Hamrin investment, we are looking to raise a new bond to better reflect the improved credit profile of our expanded asset portfolio, fund Hamrin growth capex and reduce interest costs. We see increased near-term cash flow from our existing assets due to the tri-party export agreement coupled with an enhanced long-term outlook from the addition of future Hamrin cash flows.”

ShaMaran has mandated Pareto Securities AS to be sole bookrunner and manager for a contemplated bond of up to $200 million in order to refinance its existing 2029 bond (ISIN NO0011057622) that has approximately $144 million currently outstanding. The proceeds from the new bond will be used to fund ShaMaran’s share of the Hamrin investment and for general corporate purposes. The Company will host fixed income investor meetings, and a bond issuance may follow subject to market conditions and acceptable terms. It is the Company’s intention to exercise the applicable call option in the existing bond upon successful issuance of the contemplated new bond.

ShaMaran to combine with Gulf Keystone Petroleum Ltd. (“Gulf Keystone”)

ShaMaran and Gulf Keystone today announced that they have signed a merger agreement and a combination agreement to combine their businesses and create a platform for growth in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and Federal Iraq (the “Transaction”). A copy of the press release can be found at www.shamaranpetroleum.com.

About ShaMaran Petroleum Ltd.

ShaMaran is an independent oil and gas company with non-operated stakes in three fields in Iraq. The Company indirectly holds a 50% working interest in the Atrush Block and an 18% working interest in the Sarsang Block, both in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The Company will also hold a 25% interest in the Hamrin JV, which holds the Hamrin DPC in Federal Iraq. The Company is listed in Oslo on Euronext Growth and in Stockholm on Nasdaq First North (ticker “SNM”). ShaMaran is part of the Lundin Group of Companies.

Elvis Pellumbi, CFO, +41 22 560 8600, info@shamaranpetroleum.com, www.shamaranpetroleum.com

This information is information that ShaMaran Petroleum Ltd. is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the contact person set out above, at 8:00 CET on October 20, 2026.

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

The Company’s certified advisor on Nasdaq First North Growth Market is FNCA Sweden AB.

Forward-Looking Statements

Matters discussed in this announcement may constitute forward-looking statements. The use of any of the words “will”, “expected”, “planned” and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company’s current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of certain future events. Certain information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements.

 

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