Technology
GDI Integrated Facility Services Inc. Releases its Financial Results for the First Quarter Ended March 31, 2025
Published
12 months agoon
By
Q1 2025 revenue of $616 million, a decrease of $28 million, or 4%, over Q1 2024. Q1 2025 Adjusted EBITDA* of $34 million, representing an Adjusted EBITDA* margin of 6%, compared to $28 million and 4% in Q1 2024.Q1 2025 net income of $6 million or $0.26 per share compared with $0.4 million or $0.02 per share for the first quarter of 2024.Q1 2025 decrease in long-term debt, net of cash*, of $14 million.Q1 2025 decrease in net operating working capital* of $9 million.
LASALLE, QC, May 8, 2025 /CNW/ – GDI Integrated Facility Services Inc. (“GDI” or the “Company”) (TSX: GDI) is pleased to announce its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.
For the first quarter of 2025:
Revenue reached $616 million, a decrease of $28 million, or 4%, over the first quarter of 2024 mainly attributable to an organic decline of 7%, partially offset by growth from foreign currency translation.Adjusted EBITDA* amounted to $34 million, representing an Adjusted EBITDA* margin of 6% compared to $28 million and 4% in Q1 2024.Net income was $6 million or $0.26 per share compared to $0.4 million or $0.02 per share in Q1 2024.Long-term debt, net of cash* decreased by $14 million in the quarter.Net operating working capital* reduction of $9 million in the quarter.
For the first quarters of 2025 and 2024, the business segments performed as follows:
(in millions of
Canadian dollars)
Business Services Canada
Business Services USA
Technical Services(1)
Corporate and Other(1)
Consolidated
2025
2024
2025
2024
2025
2024
2025
2024
2025
2024
Revenue
147
145
217
225
246
260
6
14
616
644
Organic Growth (Decline)
1 %
3 %
(15 %)
10 %
(5 %)
(1 %)
0 %
0 %
(7 %)
3 %
Adjusted EBITDA* (2)
11
10
15
14
12
6
(4)
(2)
34
28
Adjusted EBITDA Margin*
7 %
7 %
7 %
6 %
5 %
2 %
N/A
N/A
6 %
4 %
Note:
The 2024 results were recast to reflect i) the transfer of the Integrated Facility Services business from Corporate and Other to Technical Services since January 1, 2025 and ii) the allocation of corporate technology costs, moving some from the Corporate and Other segment to the operating Business Segments
In Q1 2025, GDI effected a change in the allocation of corporate technology costs, moving costs from the Corporate and Other segment to the operating Business Segments. This change was implemented to provide a more accurate view of segment profitability. Also, GDI has moved reporting for its IFS business unit from Corporate and Other to Technical Services as its was a more appropriate home for this business unit. Q1 2024 results have been recast to reflect this modification.
GDI’s Business Services Canada segment recorded $147 million in revenue while generating $11 million in Adjusted EBITDA*, representing an Adjusted EBITDA margin* of 7%. GDI’s Business Services USA segment recorded revenue of $217 million and Adjusted EBITDA* of $15 million, representing an Adjusted EBITDA margin* of 7%. Business Services USA experienced an organic revenue decline due to the loss of the segment’s largest client at the end of Q1 2024 and from exiting of low margin contracts obtained in the Atalian acquisition, which was partially mitigated by new customers wins. In addition, revenue generated by one customer fluctuates based on the volume of recurring project work which was lower in the first quarter of 2025.
The Technical Services segment recorded revenue of $246 million and Adjusted EBITDA* of $12 million, up by $6 million compared to Q1 2024, representing an Adjusted EBITDA margin* of 5% compared to 2% in Q1 2024, as the first quarter of 2024 was negatively affected by cost overruns on three large projects in its U.S operations.
GDI’s Corporate and Other segment recorded revenue of $6 million and negative Adjusted EBITDA* of $4 million compared to $14 million and $2 million in Q1 2024, respectively. The decline in revenue is primarily attributable to business divestitures during Fiscal 2024.
“I am very pleased with the performance of all of our business segments in Q1 this year,” stated Claude Bigras, President & CEO of GDI. “Each segment delivered profitability levels that were either in-line or above expectations which contributed to a 21% increase in Adjusted EBITDA over Q1 F2024 and a 6% consolidated Adjusted EBITDA margin for GDI as a whole. Our Business Services Canada segment recorded its fifth straight quarter with an Adjusted EBITDA margin of 7%, when adjusting last year’s results for the IT cost reallocation, showing strong stability and maintaining its premium of 100 to 200 basis points above pre-COVID levels, which we expect to continue for the foreseeable future. As we had already announced last quarter, our Business Services USA segment experienced an organic revenue decline stemming from the loss of GDI’s largest client in Q1 F2024 and from exiting low contracts as we focused on margin improvement in the Atalian acquisition throughout F2024. The majority of this business has now been replaced, and we are expecting organic growth to progressively improve to historic levels by the end of this year. Adjusted EBITDA margin in the segment was 7% during the quarter, returning to more normalized levels as the work we had been engaged in to increase margins from the Atalian acquisition has now been successfully completed. Our Technical Services segment had an outstanding quarter. Our decision to focus on higher margin business at Ainsworth continues to bear fruit, with $12 million of EBITDA and a 5% Adjusted EBITDA margin in the quarter. This was Ainsworth’s highest Adjusted EBITDA margin in Q1 since our acquisition of the business in F2015 which has historically ranged between 2% to 4% in the first quarter. Given the margin improvement initiatives we successfully implemented, the outlook at Ainsworth is positive for the remainder of F2025.”
“In addition to strong operating performance, GDI continued to deliver on our balance sheet initiatives during Q1 F2025. Our focus on working capital reduction resulted in a decrease of $9 million in the quarter. This puts us at a total net working capital reduction of $53 million since Q3 F2023 when we factor in M&A and FX impact, surpassing the $50 million dollar target that we announced at that time. We also decreased our long-term debt by $14 million in the quarter, which coupled with the increase in Adjusted EBITDA resulted in a decrease in our leverage ratio which now sits below our comfort range of 3x-3.5x.”
“All of our business segments are performing well. Business Services Canada has been performing well with a very stable margin profile. Organic growth at our Business Services USA segment is expected to show progressive improvement through the year and rebound to more historic levels by Q4. Ainsworth will continue to focus on higher margin business, and the outlook is positive. Finally, we are actively evaluating a number of M&A opportunities and have a healthy balance sheet with sufficient capacity to execute on our growth strategies. I am looking forward to GDI delivering on our expectations for the remainder of F2025,” concluded Mr. Bigras.
ABOUT GDI
GDI is a leading integrated commercial facility services provider which offers a range of services in Canada and the United States to owners and managers of a variety of facility types including office buildings, educational facilities, distribution centers, industrial facilities, healthcare establishments, stadiums and event venues, hotels, shopping centres, airports and other transportation facilities. GDI’s commercial facility services capabilities include commercial janitorial and building maintenance, energy advisory and system optimization, the installation, maintenance and repair of HVAC-R, mechanical, electrical and building automation systems, as well as other complementary services such as janitorial products manufacturing and distribution. GDI’s subordinate voting shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: GDI). Additional information on GDI can be found on its website at www.gdi.com.
CAUTION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements in this press release may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of securities laws. Forward looking information may relate to GDI’s future outlook and anticipated events, business, operations, financial performance, financial condition or results and, in some cases, can be identified by terminology such as “may”; “will”; “should”; “expect”; “plan”; “anticipate”; “believe”; “intend”; “estimate”; “predict”; “potential”; “continue”; “foresee”; “ensure” or other similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. In particular, statements regarding GDI’s future operating results and economic performance, and its objectives and strategies are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on certain factors and assumptions including expected growth, results of operations, performance and business prospects and opportunities, which GDI believes are reasonable as of the current date. While management considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to the Company, they may prove to be incorrect. It is impossible for GDI to predict with certainty the impact that the current economic uncertainties may have on future results. Forward-looking information is also subject to certain factors, including risks and uncertainties (described in the “Risk Factors” section) that could cause actual results to differ materially from what GDI currently expects. Namely, these factors include risks pertaining to unsuccessful implementation of the business strategy, changes to business structure, inherent operating risks from acquisition activity, failure to integrate an acquired company, decline in commercial real estate occupancy levels, increase in costs which cannot be passed on to customers, labour shortages, disruption in information technology systems and execution issues with Strategic IT projects, increases in interest rates, exchange rate fluctuations, deterioration in economic conditions, Government Policies on International trade and Investment, including sanctions and actions after recent U.S. elections in respect to global trade, tariffs, and trade agreement, increase in competition, influence of the principal shareholders, loss of key or long-term customers, public procurement laws and regulations, legal proceedings, reputational damage, labour disputes, disputes with franchisees, environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) considerations, goodwill and long-lived assets impairment charges, tax matters, key employees, participation in multi-employer pension plans, legislation or other governmental action, cybersecurity, data confidentiality and data protection, and public perception of our environmental footprint, many of which are beyond the Company’s control. Therefore, future events and results may vary significantly from what management currently foresees. The reader should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. While management may elect to, the Company is under no obligation and does not undertake to update or alter this information at any particular time, except as may be required by law.
Analyst Conference Call:
May 9, 2025 at 8:00 A.M. (ET)
Kindly note that Investors and Media representatives may attend as listeners only.
Please use the following dial-in numbers to have access to the conference call by dialing 10 minutes before the beginning of the conference:
North America Toll-Free: 1-800-990-4777
Local: 289-819-1299 (Toronto) or 514-400-3794 (Montreal)
RapidConnect URL: https://emportal.ink/3NJfeHV
A rebroadcast of the conference call will be available until May 16, 2025 by dialing:
North America Toll-Free: 1-888-660-6345
Local: 289-819-1450 (Toronto)
Confirmation Code: 14687#
March 31, 2025 unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements and accompanied Management & Discussion Analysis are filed on www.sedarplus.ca.
____________________________
* The terms “Adjusted EBITDA”, “Adjusted EBITDA Margin”, Long-term debt, net of cash, and net operating working capital do not have standardized definitions prescribed by International Financial Reporting Standards and therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. “Adjusted EBITDA” is defined as operating income before depreciation and amortization, transaction, reorganization and other costs, share-based compensation and strategic information technology projects configuration and customization costs. The Adjusted EBITDA Margin is calculated by dividing Adjusted EBITDA by revenues. For more details and for a reconciliation of that measure to the most directly comparable IFRS measure, consult the “Operating and Financial Results” section of the Company’s Management Discussion & Analysis (“MD&A”). Long-term debt, net of cash, and net operating working capital details and calculation is descripted in the section “consolidated financial position” of the MD&A.
GDI INTEGRATED FACILITY SERVICES INC.
CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
(UNAUDITED) (IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLLARS)
As at March 31,
As at December 31,
2025
2024
Assets
Current assets
Cash
25
14
Trade and other receivables and contract assets
564
565
Inventories
34
33
Prepaid expenses and other
25
16
Other financial assets
‒
15
Assets held for sale
6
6
Current tax assets
4
4
Total current assets
658
653
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment
120
119
Intangible assets
110
115
Goodwill
378
378
Other long-term assets
21
20
Total non-current assets
629
632
Total assets
1,287
1,285
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current liabilities
Bank indebtedness
1
2
Trade and other payables
309
306
Provisions
29
32
Contract liabilities
36
33
Current tasx liabilities
5
9
Current portion of long-term debt
23
21
Total current liabilities
403
403
Non-current liabilities
Long-term debt
358
362
Other long-term payables
8
9
Deferred tax liabilities
15
15
Total non-current liabilities
381
386
Shareholders’ equity
Share capital
383
382
Retained earnings
106
100
Contributed surplus
3
3
Accumulated other comprehensive income
11
11
Total shareholders’ equity
503
496
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
1,287
1,285
GDI INTEGRATED FACILITY SERVICES INC.
CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(UNAUDITED) (IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLLARS, EXCEPT FOR EARNINGS PER SHARE)
Three-month periods ended March 31,
2025
2024
Revenues
616
644
Cost of services
501
538
Selling and administrative expenses
84
80
Transaction, reorganization and other costs
1
1
Strategic information technology projects configuration and customization costs
‒
1
Amortization of intangible assets
5
12
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
13
14
Operating income (loss)
12
(2)
Net finance expense (income)
3
(1)
Income (Loss) before income taxes
9
(1)
Income tax expense (benefit)
3
(1)
Net income
6
‒
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Gains (losses) that are or may be reclassified to earnings:
Foreign currency translation differences for foreign operations
‒
6
Hedge of net investments in foreign operations, net of tax of nil (2024 – nil)
‒
(6)
Cash flow hedges, effective portion of changes in fair value, net of tax of nil (2024 – nil)
‒
(1)
‒
(1)
Total comprehensive income (loss)
6
(1)
Earnings per share:
Basic
0.26
0.02
Diluted
0.26
0.02
GDI INTEGRATED FACILITY SERVICES INC.
CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
(UNAUDITED) (IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLLARS)
Share Capital
Number
(in
thousands
of shares)
Amount
Retained
earnings
Contributed
surplus
Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income (1)
TOTAL
Balance, January 1, 2024
23,414
380
68
2
5
455
Net income
‒
‒
‒
‒
‒
‒
Other comprehensive loss
‒
‒
‒
‒
(1)
(1)
Total comprehensive income for the year
‒
‒
‒
‒
(1)
(1)
Transactions with owners of the Company:
Stock options exercised
35
1
‒
‒
‒
1
Balance, March 31, 2024
23,449
381
68
2
4
455
Balance, January 1, 2025
23,520
382
100
3
11
496
Net income
‒
‒
6
‒
‒
6
Other comprehensive income
‒
‒
‒
‒
‒
‒
Total comprehensive income for the year
‒
‒
6
‒
‒
6
Transactions with owners of the Company:
Stock options exercised
38
1
‒
‒
‒
1
Balance, March 31, 2025
23,558
383
106
3
11
503
(1)
The amount of accumulated other comprehensive income is net of tax of nil.
GDI INTEGRATED FACILITY SERVICES INC.
CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED) (IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLLARS)
Three-month periods ended March 31,
2025
2024
Cash flows from (used in) operating activities
Net income
6
‒
Adjustments for:
Depreciation and amortization
18
26
Net finance expense (income)
3
(1)
Income tax expense (benefit)
3
(1)
Income taxes paid
(7)
‒
Net changes in non-cash operating assets and liabilities
12
(3)
Net cash from operating activities
35
21
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
57
99
Repayment of long-term debt
(62)
(107)
Payment of lease liabilities
(9)
(9)
Interest paid
(6)
(7)
Other
1
1
Net cash used in financing activities
(19)
(23)
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities
Additions to property, plant and equipment
(4)
(4)
Additions to intangible assets
‒
(1)
Other
‒
2
Net cash from investing activities
(4)
(3)
Foreign exchange loss on cash held in foreign currencies
‒
(3)
Net change in cash (bank indebtedness)
12
(8)
Cash, beginning of period:
Cash
14
17
Bank indebtedness
(2)
(14)
12
3
Cash (bank indebtedness), end of period:
Cash
25
29
Bank indebtedness
(1)
(34)
24
(5)
GDI INTEGRATED FACILITY SERVICES INC.
SEGMENTED INFORMATION
(UNAUDITED) (IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLLARS)
Three-month period ended March 31, 2025
Business
Services
Canada
Business
Services
USA
Technical
Services
Corporate
and Other
Total
Recurring/contractual services
129
206
38
–
373
On-call services
8
11
64
–
83
Projects
–
–
144
–
144
Manufacturing and distribution
–
–
–
9
9
Other revenues
7
–
–
–
7
Total external revenues
144
217
246
9
616
Inter-segment revenues
3
–
–
(3)
–
Revenues
147
217
246
6
616
Income (loss) before income taxes
8
10
2
(11)
9
Net finance expense
1
1
1
3
Operating income (loss)
8
11
3
(10)
12
Depreciation and amortization
3
4
9
2
18
Transaction, reorganization, and other costs
–
–
–
1
1
Share-based compensation (1)
–
–
–
3
3
Strategic information technology projects configuration and customization costs
–
–
–
–
–
Adjusted EBITDA
11
15
12
(4)
34
Total assets
255
402
546
84
1,287
Total liabilities
72
104
271
337
784
Additions to property, plant and equipment
1
10
2
1
14
Additions to intangible assets
–
–
–
–
–
Goodwill recorded on business acquisitions
–
–
–
–
–
(1)
Includes stock option, performance share unit and restricted share unit plans.
GDI INTEGRATED FACILITY SERVICES INC.
SEGMENTED INFORMATION (CONTINUED)
(UNAUDITED) (IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLLARS)
Three-month period ended March 31, 2024
Business
Services
Canada
Business
Services
USA
Technical
Services(3)
Corporate and
Other(3)
Total
Recurring/contractual services
126
203
35
–
364
On-call services
9
22
74
–
105
Projects
–
–
151
–
151
Manufacturing and distribution
–
–
–
17
17
Other revenues
7
–
–
–
7
Total external revenues
142
225
260
17
644
Inter-segment revenues
3
–
–
(3)
–
Revenues
145
225
260
14
644
Income (loss) before income taxes (4)
7
4
(3)
(9)
(1)
Net finance expense
–
–
(1)
–
(1)
Operating income (loss)
7
4
(4)
(9)
(2)
Depreciation and amortization
3
9
10
4
26
Transaction, reorganization, and other costs
–
1
–
–
1
Share-based compensation (1)
–
–
–
2
2
Strategic information technology projects configuration and customization costs
–
–
–
1
1
Adjusted EBITDA
10
14
6
(2)
28
Total assets(2)
254
416
526
89
1,285
Total liabilities(2)
72
114
246
357
789
Additions to property, plant and equipment
2
1
8
1
12
Additions to intangible assets
–
–
–
1
1
Goodwill recorded on business acquisitions
–
3
–
–
3
(1)
Includes stock option, performance share unit and restricted share unit plans.
(2)
As at December 31, 2024.
(3)
The 2024 figures were recast to reflect January 1, 2025 reorganization change were facility management services now report into Technical Services segment as opposed to Corporate and Other as published in 2024.
(4)
The 2024 figures were recast to reflect a change in the allocation of corporate technology costs, moving from the Corporate and Other segment to the operating segments. This change was implemented to provide a more meaningful view of segment profitability.
GDI INTEGRATED FACILITY SERVICES INC.
BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS
(UNAUDITED)
Acquisition date
Company acquired (1)
Location
Segment reporting
Status(2)
2025 Acquisitions
None
2024 Acquisitions
April 1, 2024
Hussmann Canada Inc.
(“Hussmann”)
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
Technical Services
Completed
May 1, 2024
Jade Opco, LLC, doing business as Paramount Building Solutions
(“Paramount”)
Phoenix, Arizona
Business Services USA
Completed
June 1, 2024
RYCOM Corporation (“RYCOM”)
Toronto, Ontario
Technical Services
Preliminary
(1)
GDI acquired all of the outstanding shares of each acquired company, with the exception of Hussman, where the Company completed the acquisition of certain assets and assumed certain liabilities.
(2)
Preliminary status: Given the limited time between the 2024 Acquisitions and March 31, 2025, the purchase prices have been allocated on a preliminary basis and will be finalized as soon as the Company’s management has obtained all the information it considers necessary. Completed status: The assessment of the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed is completed.
Business disposals
On April 1, 2024, the Company completed the sale of its Superior cleaning and sanitation supplies distribution business and transferred to the purchaser some of its related liabilities.
On November 30, 3024, the Company completed the sale of Ainsworth Power Construction (“APC”), a specialized business performing high voltage work primarily for utilities in Ontario.
GDI INTEGRATED FACILITY SERVICES INC.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL POSITION
(UNAUDITED) (IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLLARS)
(in millions of Canadian dollars)
March 31,
2025
December 31,
2024
Net operating working capital:
Trade and other receivables and contract assets
564
565
Inventories
34
33
Prepaid expenses and other
25
16
Other financial assets
‒
15
Trade and other payables
(309)
(306)
Provisions
(29)
(32)
Contract liabilities
(36)
(33)
Net operating working capital
249
258
Long-term debt, including current portion, net of Cash (bank indebtedness):
Cash, net of bank indebtedness
24
12
Long-term debt, including current portion
(381)
(383)
Long-term debt, including current portion, net of Cash (bank indebtedness)
(357)
(371)
Other financial position accounts:
Property, plant and equipment
120
119
Intangible assets
110
115
Goodwill
378
378
Other long-term assets
21
20
Assets held for sale
6
6
Other long-term liabilities
(8)
(9)
Net current tax (liabilities) assets
(1)
(5)
Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets
(15)
(15)
GDI INTEGRATED FACILITY SERVICES INC.
SUPPLEMENTARY QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
THREE-MONTH PERIODS
(UNAUDITED) (IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLLARS, EXCEPT FOR EARNINGS PER SHARE)
Three months ended
(in millions of Canadian dollars, except per share data) (1)
March
2025
December
2024
September
2024
June
2024
Revenue
616
634
640
639
Operating income
12
15
15
10
Depreciation and amortization
18
22
20
19
Transaction, reorganization and other costs
1
(2)
1
2
Share-based compensation
3
2
3
2
Strategic information technology projects configuration and customization costs
‒
1
‒
1
Adjusted EBITDA
34
38
39
34
Net income for the period
6
23
7
2
Earnings per share
Basic
0.26
1.00
0.28
0.07
Diluted
0.26
0.99
0.28
0.07
Three months ended
(in millions of Canadian dollars, except per share data) (1)
March
2024
December
2023
September
2023
June
2023
Revenue
644
622
615
609
Operating (loss) income
(2)
9
16
10
Depreciation and amortization
26
22
19
19
Transaction, reorganization and other costs
1
2
‒
1
Share-based compensation
2
2
2
3
Strategic information technology projects configuration and customization costs
1
2
2
1
Adjusted EBITDA
28
37
39
34
Net income for the period
‒
6
8
1
Earnings per share
Basic
0.02
0.26
0.35
0.04
Diluted
0.02
0.25
0.35
0.04
(1)
The differences between the quarters are mainly the results of business acquisitions, as well as seasonality in the Technical Services segment.
SOURCE GDI Integrated Facility Services Inc.
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This jointly developed HAPS aircraft wing skin and test method that reproduces stratospheric conditions were made possible by combining SoftBank’s HAPS expertise and TOPPAN Holdings’ know-how accrued over years of creating advanced multi-layered film technology designed for packaging and construction materials. TOPPAN Holdings also leveraged its proprietary technology that evaluates weather resistance. This joint development mitigates film damage (degradation) caused by strong ultraviolet (UV) rays and ultra-low temperatures of almost -100°C. As a result, the aircraft can stay in the stratosphere for longer periods.
Development Background
HAPS, also referred to as “base stations in the sky,” provide communication services from uncrewed aircraft that remain airborne in the stratosphere. Being able to keep an aircraft with a communications payload airborne for extended periods of time would make it possible to provide an alternative means of communications in the aftermath of large-scale natural disasters, as well as provide communication services to under-connected areas, such as mountainous regions and remote islands. As these platforms operate from the stratosphere at an altitude of approximately 20 km above, they offer wider-area coverage than base stations on the ground, while also providing high-quality, high-volume, low-latency communications superior to satellite-based communications. However, at this altitude in the stratosphere, UV ray and ozone exposure is far greater than at ground level, and with exposure to extremely cold temperatures that sometimes drop to almost -100℃, impaired efficacy due to these environmental factors had been a serious issue with conventional all-purpose skins. Responding to this challenge, SoftBank and TOPPAN Holdings jointly developed a new ultra-lightweight, high-durability skin for aircraft wings capable of withstanding the harsh conditions of the stratosphere, along with a specialized methodology for its evaluation.
Wing Skin & Evaluation Method Characteristics
1. Use of impact-resistant advanced resin and proprietary structure to achieve both lightweighting and safety
Leveraging converting technology[2] developed for packaging by TOPPAN Holdings, an optimized skin structure was achieved by precisely layering original materials and impact-resistant advanced resin suitable for use at extremely low temperature conditions. The resulting skin weighs the same as or less than average conventional all-purpose skin, and even if damage to the skin were to occur, the break-resistant design keeps damage from spreading, allowing for both a safe and lighter HAPS airframe.
2. Advanced durability to address harsh stratospheric conditions
SoftBank has contributed real-world data from its stratospheric HAPS flights, including actual temperature measurements and deep ultraviolet (UV-C) ray exposure conditions, and has also defined requirements such as weight reduction and other performance criteria. This has enabled TOPPAN Holdings to design a skin that addresses exposure to the harsh environmental conditions of the stratosphere by applying technology developed for construction materials. These conditions particular to the stratosphere include everything from extremely low temperatures (approximately -50℃ to -95℃) to extreme heat (approximately 100℃) from direct sunlight. The skin is also resistant to short wave UV-C and high-concentration ozone (10-20 ppm, parts per million) exposure that are far stronger than at ground level. This durability will allow for extended HAPS operation periods.
3. Establishing a testing method that simulates stratospheric conditions to ensure reliability
TOPPAN Holdings leveraged its knowledge of packaging film testing and accelerated durability testing of construction materials, to construct a new test environment that assesses the skin under a simulation of the ultralow temperatures of the stratosphere, while also facilitating the testing of simultaneous exposure from short wave UV rays and the ozone. By using this test environment, it is possible to understand the detailed mechanisms of deterioration particular to the stratosphere and to use that knowledge for improved product design. This understanding and design adjustment makes it possible to carry out a more precise and more reliable evaluation compared to former testing methods.
Roles of Both Companies
SoftBank
Provide expertise required to evaluate the suitability of the skin as well as expertise on HAPS operations
Supervision of advancing use with HAPS aircraft and transferring advances to practical application
TOPPAN Holdings
Develop and provide skin material suitable for HAPS aircraft
Proposal for evaluation method in stratospheric environment
Future Developments
SoftBank and TOPPAN Holdings will proceed with research to make the skin material developed within the scope of this project even lighter and stronger by fiscal 2027 (the year ending March 31, 2028). Additionally, while evaluating durability in the stratosphere, both companies will also attempt to establish mass production technology capable of ensuring sufficient supply and reliable quality by fiscal 2028. Also, based on testing outcomes, additional functions will be added, and the skin is expected to be used by SoftBank on HTA-type HAPS aircraft that provide commercial services, planned for launch from 2029 onwards. Both companies also plan to apply this skin to other fields that require a high level of durability.
[1] HTA (Heavier-Than-Air) refers to HAPS that remain airborne by generating aerodynamic lift, similar to conventional aircraft.
[2] Converting technology is the process of transforming materials like film into high-function final products through specialized processing such as printing and lamination.
For more information:
https://www.holdings.toppan.com/en/news/04/newsrelease260427_1.html
About SoftBank Corp.
Guided by the SoftBank Group’s corporate philosophy, “Information Revolution – Happiness for everyone,” SoftBank Corp. (TOKYO: 9434) operates telecommunications and IT businesses in Japan and globally. Building on its strong business foundation, SoftBank Corp. is expanding into non-telecom fields in line with its “Beyond Carrier” growth strategy while further growing its telecom business by harnessing the power of 5G/6G, IoT, Digital Twin and Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) solutions, including High Altitude Platform Station (HAPS)-based stratospheric telecommunications. While constructing AI data centers and developing homegrown LLMs specialized for the Japanese language, SoftBank is integrating AI with radio access networks (AI-RAN), with the aim of becoming a provider of next-generation social infrastructure.
https://www.softbank.jp/en/corp/
About the TOPPAN Group
Established in Tokyo in 1900, the TOPPAN Group is a leading and diversified global provider committed to delivering sustainable, integrated solutions in fields including printing, communications, security, packaging, décor materials, electronics, and digital transformation. The TOPPAN Group’s global team of more than 50,000 employees offers optimal solutions enabled by industry-leading expertise and technologies to address the diverse challenges of every business sector and society and contribute to the achievement of shared sustainability goals.
https://www.holdings.toppan.com/en/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/toppan/
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/softbank-corp-and-toppan-holdings-develop-lightweight-durable-skin-for-solar-haps-aircraft-wings-302753970.html
SOURCE TOPPAN Holdings
Technology
TravelingWiki Foundation Launches SportsFanWiki.com, Providing Disabled Fans with Sports Venue Specific Information in Wiki Format
Published
51 minutes agoon
April 27, 2026By
The setup of SportsFanWiki.com mirrors the extremely successful format of TravelingWiki.com, which documents disability resources for all FAA Large Sized and FAA Medium Sized hub airports and leverages the launch of a GenAI platform to ensure access across society to expanded disability resources information.
LAS VEGAS, April 27, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — TravelingWiki Foundation announces the launch of SportsFanWiki.com, providing a comprehensive database of sports venue information for fans with Non Visible Disabilities. The setup of SportsFanWiki.com mirrors the extremely successful format of TravelingWiki.com, which documents disability resources for all FAA Large Sized and FAA Medium Sized hub airports.
The launch of SportsFanWiki occurs at the same time as the launch of ShoheiAutographs.com; MantleRookies.com; KobeRookies.com; and LebronRookies.com, offering market leading sports card inventory of Shohei Ohtani, Mickey Mantle, Kobe Bryant and Lebron James, respectively. The launch highlights TravelingWiki’s services offered including new Generative AI functionality via a GenAI platform currently in beta testing. The launch also spotlights TravelingWiki’s CardForACause.com platform for free disability resources offered to 20 million Americans for no cost as funded with sports cards sales nationwide via the most two recent White House administrations.
TravelingWiki CEO Jonathan Sutter notes, “Leadership of TravelingWiki Foundation is honored to expand to sports venue disability information, offered free to the public and funded via the the sale of cards from the extraordinary careers of Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Shohei Ohtani and Mickey Mantle, to highlight the critical resources offered via TravelingWiki for the Non Visible Disability community.”
More information about the non-profit work of TravelingWiki foundation is available via visiting http://www.Travelingwiki.com.
Media Contact
Jonathan Sutter, TravelingWiki Foundation, 1 4044033333, jonathan.sutter@travelingwiki.com, http://www.TravelingWiki.com
Jonathan Sutter, TravelingWiki Foundation, 1 4044033333, jonathan.sutter@travelingwiki.com, http://www.TravelingWiki.com
View original content:https://www.prweb.com/releases/travelingwiki-foundation-launches-sportsfanwikicom-providing-disabled-fans-with-sports-venue-specific-information-in-wiki-format-302753876.html
SOURCE TravelingWiki Foundation
Technology
AiPPT.com Expands Its Approach to Turning Information into Ready-to-Use Presentations in India
Published
51 minutes agoon
April 27, 2026By
NEW DELHI, April 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — AiPPT.com has refined its platform as demand continues to grow in India for faster ways to turn everyday information into structured presentations.
Across universities, coaching centers, startups, and corporate teams, presentation work often begins with scattered material from notes, documents, and online sources. The platform focuses on converting this workflow into a single process that produces usable slides from raw input. The aim is to reduce preparation time while keeping presentations clear and ready for use.
A Workflow Built Around Content
AiPPT.com allows users to start in familiar ways. A topic can be entered directly, or files such as Word and PDF documents can be uploaded. Web content can also be converted into slides via the URL-to-PPT feature, which turns online information into structured presentations.
The system analyzes the input and builds a presentation with clear sections and logical flow. Slides are generated with formatting applied automatically, reducing manual effort.
For users looking for inspiration, AiPPT.com also provides resources such as easy presentation topics to help them get started more quickly.
From Scattered Information to Clear Communication
In academic and workplace settings, information is often spread across multiple formats. Turning this into a structured presentation can take time.
AiPPT.com simplifies this process. A report can become a meeting deck. A research paper can be turned into a seminar presentation. Startups can quickly build investor materials using the AI pitch deck generator. Educators can create structured lessons with support from tools designed for teaching, such as AI for teachers.
A Flexible System for Editing and Conversion
AiPPT.com supports full editing after generation. Users can adjust text, change slide order, or refine structure. Presentations can also be edited directly through its online PPT editor.
Users can also choose from a range of presentation templates to match different use cases. This flexibility helps users adapt presentations for classrooms, meetings, and digital sharing without rebuilding them.
About AiPPT.com
AiPPT.com is an AI-powered PPT generator focused on turning information into structured presentations. The company builds tools that connect content creation, organization, and presentation in one workflow. Its goal is to support clearer communication by helping users transform ideas and materials into ready to use slides efficiently.
Contact Information
Company Name: PIXELBLOOM PTE. LTD.
Email: support@aippt.com
Website: https://www.aippt.com/
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/aipptcom-expands-its-approach-to-turning-information-into-ready-to-use-presentations-in-india-302753879.html
SoftBank Corp. and TOPPAN Holdings Develop Lightweight, Durable Skin for Solar HAPS Aircraft Wings
TravelingWiki Foundation Launches SportsFanWiki.com, Providing Disabled Fans with Sports Venue Specific Information in Wiki Format
AiPPT.com Expands Its Approach to Turning Information into Ready-to-Use Presentations in India
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