2015 Manufacturing Leadership Award Winners Announced

— Merck, Dow, GE, General Motors, Lockheed Martin and fellow award winners to be honored June 2-4 at the Manufacturing Leadership Summit

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., March 4, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Frost & Sullivan’s Manufacturing Leadership (ML) Council today recognized world-class manufacturing companies and individual leaders as winners of the 2015 Manufacturing Leadership Awards.

Frost & Sullivan's Manufacturing Leadership Council

Frost & Sullivan’s Manufacturing Leadership Council

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In a world of intensifying global competition and accelerating, technology-driven change, recipients of the ML Awards have distinguished themselves by embracing breakthrough innovation and enabling their companies to anticipate and respond to customers with unmatched agility.

Now in its eleventh year, the ML Awards honor companies and individuals that are shaping the future of global manufacturing. Nominations are entered into 11 categories, evaluated and scored by a panel of expert judges. Ten of the ML Awards categories are for outstanding projects by a manufacturing company. One category recognizes the achievements of individual manufacturing leaders.

“Now more than ever, manufacturers must accelerate and expand innovation and the delivery of customer value while continuing to embrace core principles of quality and operational excellence,” said Global Vice President and Editorial Director of the Manufacturing Leadership Council David R. Brousell. “Winners of the 2015 ML Awards have clearly demonstrated that they are leaders on all of those fronts. Congratulations to each of them.”

ML Award winners and their technology partners will be honored on June 4, 2015 at a gala celebration that concludes the eleventh annual Manufacturing Leadership Summit in Carlsbad, CA. At the gala, winners of the ML High Achiever Awards, the ML Manufacturers of the Year, and the Manufacturing Leader of the Year will also be announced.

The ML Summit is a unique, interactive gathering of manufacturing leaders from around the world. The theme for the 2015 summit is “The New Era of Creating Manufacturing.” Featured speakers include: Ford Motor Co. Executive Vice President, Global Manufacturing and Labor Affairs John Fleming; Lockheed Martin Space Systems Vice President of Production Dennis Little; The Dow Chemical Company Vice Chairman, Business Operations James R. Fitterling; and Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency Director of the Defense Sciences Office Dr. Stefanie Tompkins.

Expert judges for the 2015 ML Awards include UCLA Vice Provost, Information Technology and Chief Academic Technology Officer Jim Davis; Frost & Sullivan Industrial Automation and Process Control Vice President of Research Sath Rao; L’Oreal Operations America Vice President, Communications and Social Responsibility Morris Lenczicki; Graphicast Inc. President Val Zanchuk; VirTex Enterprises LP CEO Brad Heath; Manufacturing Leadership Council Global Vice President and Editorial Director David R. Brousell; Lexmark International Corporate Manager Sustainability John Gagel; Extreme Networks Vice President, Engineering Operations and Quality Brad Martin; Plastic Molding Technology Inc. CEO Charles A. Sholtis; Digital Manufacturing & Design Innovation Institute at UI LABS Executive Director Dean L. Bartles; The Boeing Company Senior Manager Rod Mattison; Card-Monroe Corp. Vice President of Corporate Excellence Jim Joyner; Scientific Games Vice President, Global Supply Chain Chris Hillman; The Dow Chemical Company Vice President Engineering Solutions and Technology Centers Paul Dean II.

The Manufacturing Leadership Council is pleased to announce the winners of the 2015 ML Awards:

Big Data & Advanced Analytics Leadership

  • Bristol-Myers Squibb
  • Saudi Aramco (Abqaiq Intelligent Energy Management System)
  • Steel Dynamics
  • The Dow Chemical Company (Enterprise Manufacturing Intelligence)

Customer Value Leadership

  • Boston Scientific
  • Schutt Sports (Mass Customization)
  • The Design Phactory
  • Thule, Inc.
  • Toyota Motor Sales

Engineering & Production Technology Leadership

  • Ball Aerospace
  • CPI Aerostructures
  • Extreme Networks (Robotic WiFi Antenna Testing)
  • General Motors
  • GKN Aerospace
  • Lockheed Martin Aeronautics (Applied Additive Tooling Technologies)
  • Lockheed Martin Aeronautics (Hole-Drilling Process Improvements)
  • Lockheed Martin Aeronautics (Optical Projection Of Fastener Installation Data)
  • Mechanical Equipment Company, Inc.
  • Mother Parkers Tea and Coffee (RealCup Capsule Commercialization and Rapid Expansion)
  • PACCAR Engine Company
  • Saudi Aramco (Integrated Analytical Engineering Performance Monitoring Tool)
  • Tessy Plastics LLC
  • The Tech Group

Enterprise Technology Leadership

  • AMA Plastics
  • Boers & Co.
  • CommScope, Inc. (PM Mobile)
  • Crescent Park Corp.
  • Epec Engineered Technologies
  • NetApp, Inc.
  • Nexteer
  • Toyota Boskoku America
  • VirTex Enterprises
  • Xerox

Innovation Process Leadership

  • Blast Motion
  • DIRTT Environmental Solutions
  • GE Global Research
  • IBM (Intelligent Release Enablement)
  • JCB India Ltd
  • Proto Labs
  • The Hayes Companies

Operational Excellence Leadership

  • ATK Aerospace Group
  • Avnet, Inc.
  • CommScope, Inc. (One-Piece Flow)
  • Eaton
  • IBM (IPDL Singapore Design and Operational eXcellence (DOX) Program)
  • Lexmark International, Inc. (Lean Sourcing Framework)
  • L’Oreal USA
  • MBX Systems
  • Nissan Americas
  • Olympic Steel, Inc.
  • Peterbilt Motors Co. (Mixed Model Cab Trim Line)
  • Peterbilt Motors Co. (North Texas Lean Consortium)
  • The Dow Chemical Company (Dow Hsinchu Site’s Six Sigma / Lean Journey)
  • The Raymond Corp.

New Product Leadership

  • BullEx (Attack™ and BullsEye™ Product Platforms)
  • Crest Industries
  • HzO, Inc.
  • Manchac Technologies
  • Merck & Co.
  • Mother Parkers Tea and Coffee (EcoCup Single Serve Capsules)
  • Schutt Sports (STX Stallion)
  • Terves, Inc.

Next-Generation Leadership

  • Allied Mineral Products
  • Meritage Global Services, Inc.
  • Peterbilt Motors Co. (Emerging Leaders Southwest)
  • Specialty Manufacturing, Inc.
  • The Dow Chemical Company (Next Generation Leadership)

Supply Chain Leadership

  • C&S Wholesale Grocers
  • Elster Gas, North and South America (Strategic Procurement Structure)
  • Hewlett-Packard Co.
  • IBM (Singapore Power Systems Transition Project)
  • Lexmark International, Inc. (Global Sourcing Contracts Process Improvements)
  • MAPA SPONTEX
  • PL Developments
  • Redwing Shoe Company
  • Seagate, Inc.
  • Bridge Publications, Inc.

Sustainability Leadership

  • BullEx (Smart Class A PHASE II)
  • Campbell Soup
  • Columbia Manufacturing, Inc.
  • Elster Gas, North and South America (Sustainability Strategy)
  • Extreme Networks, Inc. (Sustainable Packaging)
  • Lexmark International, Inc. (Reconditioning of Laser Cartridge Developer Rolls)
  • Saudi Aramco (Resource and Energy Optimization)

Visionary Leadership

  • Harry Arnon, Hernon Manufacturing, Inc.
  • Marcia Coulson, Eldon James Corp.
  • Donald J. Davis, Kent Displays Inc.
  • Ulrich Ermel, TQ Systems GmbH
  • James Harbour, Harbour & Associates, Inc. (Retired)
  • Curt Modtland, The Dow Chemical Company (Retired)
  • Mort O’Sullivan, ARCA
  • Jamie Quilter, Rexnord Industries

About the Manufacturing Leadership Council

The Manufacturing Leadership Council, Frost & Sullivan, is the world’s first member-driven, global business leadership network dedicated to senior executives in the manufacturing industry. The Manufacturing Leadership Council’s mission is to help senior executives define and shape a better future for themselves, their organizations, and the industry at large. The Council produces an extensive portfolio of leadership networking, information, and professional development products, programs, and services, including the Manufacturing Leadership Community website, an online global business network with over 6,700 members worldwide; the Manufacturing Leadership Council, an invitation-only executive organization of over 100 members; the annual Manufacturing Leadership Summit; the Manufacturing Leadership Awards, celebrating industry achievement; and the thought-leading Manufacturing Leadership Journal. For more information, visit www.MLCouncil.com.

About Frost & Sullivan   

Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, works in collaboration with clients to leverage visionary innovation that addresses the global challenges and related growth opportunities that will make or break today’s market participants. For more than 50 years, we have been developing growth strategies for the global 1000, emerging businesses, the public sector and the investment community. Contact us: Start the discussion

Contact:
Jeffrey Moad
P: +1 510.531.3456
F: +1 510.531.3456
E: jeffrey.moad@frost.com

http://www.frost.com

Photo – http://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20150304/8521501347

Kawasaki International ECO-Tech Fair 2015 Opened Successfully

KAWASAKI, Japan, Feb. 5, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — The two-day Kawasaki International ECO-Tech Fair 2015 was held in Todoroki Arena of Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan on February 05, 2015. The Fair was attended by 138 international enterprises and organizations as well as ECO-Tech experts to share effective environmental protection measures, valuable experience and production-related ecological technology.

Birdview of Kawasaki in 2012 (above) and in 1960s (below)

Birdview of Kawasaki in 2012 (above) and in 1960s (below)

Kawasaki, famous for its industry, is located in Kanagawa, Japan. It is near Tokyo and in the center of Japanese archipelagos with a population of 1.46 million, 500 of whom are from Thailand (The data was collected at the end of December, 2014). Apart from the title of well-known industrial city, Kawasaki is also a place of dreams and rich culture. Doraemon, deeply loved by children all over the world, is just a “special citizen” of the city. The museum of its writer, famous cartoonist Fujiko•F•Fujio, is also situated in the city, together with the eminent Taro Okamoto Museum of Art.

From 1960s to 1970s, Kawasaki, as a major city of Keihin In. Zone during the rapid development period, played a very important role in Japanese industrial development. It served as an engine for Japanese industrial development and meanwhile suffered from environmental degradation such as air/water pollution caused by overload development. In order to solve environmental pollution, Kawasaki citizens, enterprises and government closely worked together and finally turned Kawasaki into a suitable living place again through persistent efforts and practical experience.

Nowadays, Kawasaki is under rapid development supported by a large number of enterprises and R&D institutes with advanced ecological technology. KING SKYFRONT, opposite to Haneda Airport, has made a significant contribution to solve the health, medical care, welfare and environment problems and to promote the formation of R&D base for new industries. A variety of power generation facilities including the most advanced and efficient coal-fired power plant, natural gas power plant and solar-wind power plant have emerged along the coastal industrial zone to provide power for the capital and facilitate widespread introduction and practical application of hydrogen energy. In November 2014, Kawasaki entered into a cooperation agreement with Toshiba Corporation to verify the use of self-support energy supply system composed of renewable energy and hydrogen and the verification test is expected to be carried out in April, 2015. The system will use electrolyzed water to produce hydrogen for PV generation. The produced hydrogen will be stored in fuel tanks for power generation and warm water. The system is able to run independently to produce power and warm water even if the basic living infrastructure is damaged by natural cause. Additionally, the system can also be transported to the disaster area by trucks.

Green Kawasaki has gained more and more attention from the world. In 2008, President Hu Jintao came to Kawasaki to visit related enterprises. In 2014, Narongchai, Minister of Energy, Thailand, visited energy facilities in Kawasaki.

Clean energy and energy conservation/creation/storage technology has attracted worldwide concern regarding the power supply problem occurred after the big earthquake of eastern Japan. Kawasaki is taking constant effort to build a secure society and develop/popularize energy technology in order to enable the advanced ecological technology to support other Asian countries and regions suffering from environmental problems caused by overdevelopment of industries. As a result, a large-scale International ECO-Tech Fair was held in 2009 in Kawasaki in order to publish more comprehensive international environmental information and facilitate more business negotiations. This time, Kawasaki International ECO-Tech Fair 2015, with the theme of “Kawasaki now brings environmental technologies to the world”, is an international business negotiation platform for people in the environmental industry from 30 countries and regions (mainly from Asian). Different advanced projects and oversea successful examples will be shown in the Fair and various expert forums will be held.                   

Every year, various oversea project introduction meetings and expert forums are held in Kawasaki and attended by many experts from Asian countries and regions such as Thailand. A number of research results and ecological technology will be introduced to the world and a great contribution will be made through industrial exchange and technology transfer.

Photo – http://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20150129/0861500756  

Novozymes Group Announces Financial Statement for 2014

Positive outlook for 2015, long-term targets updated

BEIJING, Jan. 29, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Sales growth in 2014 was in line with expectations. Organically, sales grew by 7% (6% DKK, 7% LCY) compared with 2013. In the fourth quarter alone, sales grew by 4% organically compared with Q4 2013. EBIT grew by 17% in 2014, and the EBIT margin was 27.2%, up 2.5 percentage points on 2013.

The 2015 outlook is positive. Organic sales growth is expected to be 7-9%. Currencies provide a positive tailwind, and sales in DKK are expected to increase by 13-15%. EBIT growth is expected to be 12-14% and the EBIT margin 26-27%.

Following a strategic business review, Novozymes today launches its new purpose statement, strategy and updated long-term targets. Through 2020, Novozymes targets annual organic sales growth of 8-10% on average, an EBIT margin of ≥ 26% and ROIC incl. goodwill of ≥ 25%. The dividend payout ratio is expected to increase to ~40%. Finally, a new stock buyback program worth up to DKK 2 billion is set to run in 2015.

Peder Holk Nielsen, President and CEO of Novozymes, comments: “2014 was a good year for Novozymes with 7% organic sales growth and a record EBIT margin. Bioenergy was the strongest growth driver, making up for slower growth in Food & Beverages and Household Care. Our growth platforms showed good progress, and in particular I’m excited about how well The BioAg Alliance has gotten off the ground. Novozymes is in a strong position today. Our technologies and solutions are in high demand. Going forward, we believe partnering will become more important for bringing innovation to customers. This is the outset for our new purpose and strategy Partnering for impact. In extension of this, we’ve updated our long-term targets. Long-term organic sales growth is expected to be slightly lower than the previous target, whereas we increase the long-term targets for EBIT margin and return on invested capital. In the midst of a slow recovery and volatile markets, we expect 2015 to be another good year for Novozymes.”

New Study on Clean Diesel Technology Affirms Near-Zero Emissions, No Significant Health Impact

WASHINGTON, Jan. 28, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — The Diesel Technology Forum issued the following statement today regarding the multi-year Advanced Collaborative Emissions Study (ACES) conducted by the Health Effects Institute (HEI).

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HEI conducted the independent study of new technology diesel engines to determine whether the engines achieved the expected emissions reductions, thereby improving air quality for public health, as well as whether the new technologies resulted in any unintended increases in emission components.  The study concluded that exposure to new technology diesel exhaust does not cause any increase in the risk of lung cancer or other significant adverse health effects in study animals. 

“The significance of this study and its conclusions cannot be overstated,” said Allen Schaeffer, the Executive Director of the Diesel Technology Forum.  “The results of this new study verify the environmental benefits of the new clean diesel technology, which have near-zero emissions for nitrogen oxides (NOx), hydrocarbons (HC) and particulate matter (PM).  And while this study focused on heavy duty truck emissions, the new clean diesel technology has the potential for impacting all sectors, including passenger cars, agriculture, construction, maritime and transportation.

“As other countries embrace cleaner diesel fuels, they will also be able to reap the benefits of cleaner air with new clean diesel technology engines manufactured in the United States.  Today, one in four advanced clean diesel engines produced here is exported internationally.

“The comprehensive nature of this study by such an authoritative body as the Health Effects Institute is extremely significant.  It’s also important to highlight that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the California Air Resources Board, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Federal Highway Administration are sponsors of this study in conjunction with the manufacturers of emissions control equipment.”

The ACES effort has been guided by an independent Oversight Committee comprised primarily of academic scientists.

HEI press release:
http://www.healtheffects.org/Pubs/Press%20Release%20ACES%202015.pdf

HEI summary and study:
http://pubs.healtheffects.org/view.php?id=430

“The findings of the ACES study are extremely important because diesel engines are the technology of choice that drives 15 sectors of the global economy―from agriculture to goods movement, from construction to warehousing.

“In the U.S., clean diesel technology has reduced particulate matter and NOx emissions by 98 percent compared to 1988 vehicles. Diesel technology has undergone a complete transformation beginning with a move to ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel in 2006 that reduced the fuel’s sulfur content by 97 percent. This cleaner fuel then enabled refinements in engine technology and the use of emission controls and reduction strategies that are now deployed throughout a wide range of industry, engines and technology.”

Diesel Technology Forum: http://www.dieselforum.org/

Health Effects Institute: http://www.healtheffects.org/

The Diesel Technology Forum is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of diesel engines, fuel and technology.

Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link.
Allen Schaeffer
https://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=111282

Contact:
Steve Hansen
shansen@dieselforum.org
301-668-7230 (o)
202-355-3664 (c)

(View this press release online here.)

Hong Kong Hitachi Group Holds 50th Anniversary Commemorative Ceremony

Supporting Richer Lives and the Development of Hong Kong Society

HONG KONG, Dec. 10, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE:6501, “Hitachi”) today announced that Hitachi Group holds a “Hong Kong Hitachi Group 50th Anniversary Commemorative Ceremony”. The ceremony will welcome representatives of about 300 companies including the Hitachi Group’s customers and partner companies to present a history of the Group’s business rollout in Hong Kong over half a century, and to display and introduce a wide range of products, technologies and services that represent the Hitachi Group’s strengths in this market. These include storage, elevators and escalators, High Functional Materials & Components, ATMs, home appliances and power tools as well as logistics services. The event will also feature seminars on the themes of Big Data and healthcare where Hitachi is focusing its efforts and introductions of Hitachi’s activities and engineering capabilities. Through active interactions with customers and identifying their needs and providing optimum solutions, Hitachi will strive to further expand business in this region.

Hong Kong has become a prominent global hub for both commercial and financial activities, and the Hitachi Group has a long history in this market as well. Hitachi began its operations in Hong Kong in 1964 with the establishment of Hitachi (Hong Kong) Ltd. Today, more than 30 Group companies are conducting business operations here with more than 1,800 employees.

The Hitachi Group is currently rolling out business on a global scale with a focus on the Social Innovation Business. As part of these activities, it is strengthening both its air and ocean freight forwarding business in Hong Kong for the transport of goods between Hong Kong and India, the Middle East, Africa and other parts of the world. For example, in May 2013, Hitachi acquired all stocks in James J. Boyle & Co., an American logistics company, and in July of the same year, it acquired part of the stocks for CDS Freight Holding Ltd., a logistics company in Hong Kong that demonstrates strengths in marine cargo transport. In November 2014, Hitachi established a Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems (Hong Kong) Co., Ltd. in Hong Kong to strengthen sales and service structures for the industrial device business. The Group is also conducting activities aimed at promoting collaborations with local partners in fields such as health care and Big Data, which are expected to see substantial growth in the future.

The Hitachi Group promotes management with close ties to the community, actively conducting social contribution activities such as “Walk For Millions”, “Beach Clean-up Day”, and “Hitachi Environment Classes,” and creating opportunities for interactions with the citizens of Hong Kong.

Companies in the Hong Kong Hitachi Group will continue to use the experience and expertise that they have accumulated over the past 50 years to create new value for customers through the rollout of business that meets local needs. In this way, the Group will contribute to achieving richer lives and the further development of Hong Kong society over the next 50 years as well.

Group Companies participating in the Hong Kong Hitachi Group 50th Anniversary Commemorative Ceremony (total: 19 companies)

  • Hitachi (Hong Kong) Ltd.
  • Hitachi Chemical Co., (Hong Kong) Ltd.
  • Hitachi Air-Conditioning Systems (HK) Co., Ltd.
  • Hitachi Capital (HK) Ltd.
  • Hitachi Data Systems Ltd.
  • Hitachi Elevator Engineering Co., (Hong Kong) Ltd.
  • Hitachi Elevator (China) Co., Ltd.
  • Hitachi High-Technologies Hong Kong Ltd.
  • Hitachi Insurance Services, (Hong Kong) Ltd.
  • Hitachi Koki Asia Co., Ltd.
  • Hitachi Metals Hong Kong Ltd.
  • Vantec Hitachi Transport System (H.K.) Ltd.
  • Hitachi Maxell Global Ltd.
  • Clarion (H.K.) Industries Co., Ltd.
  • Hitachi Urban Investment (Hong Kong), Ltd.
  • Hitachi Financial Equipment System (Shen Zhen) Co., Ltd.
  • Hitachi East Asia Ltd.
  • Hitachi Ltd.
  • Hitachi (China) Ltd.

Outline of Seminars

Theme: Three Principles of Making Money with Big Data
Speaker: Dr. Kazuo Yano; Senior Chief Researcher, Central Research Laboratory, Hitachi, Ltd.

Theme: Hitachi’s Healthcare Innovation – Supporting various needs of care cycles by Healthcare IT & Medical Technology –
Speaker: Dr. Nobuyuki Osakabe; CTO, Healthcare Company, Hitachi, Ltd.

About Hitachi, Ltd.

Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, delivers innovations that answer society’s challenges with our talented team and proven experience in global markets. The company’s consolidated revenues for fiscal 2013 (ended March 31, 2014) totaled 9,616 billion yen ($93.4 billion). Hitachi is focusing more than ever on the Social Innovation Business, which includes infrastructure systems, information & telecommunication systems, power systems, construction machinery, high functional materials & components, automotive systems, healthcare and others. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company’s website at http://www.hitachi.com.

How to Meet the Global Infrastructure Challenge in an Age of Austerity

New KPMG report spotlights 100 world-class infrastructure projects that balance solving problems of society today while preparing for demands of the future

TORONTO, Nov. 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — KPMG International’s Infrastructure 100: World Markets Report, highlights key trends driving infrastructure investment around the world. A global panel of industry experts identifies 100 of the world’s most innovative, impactful infrastructure projects showing how governments are coming together with the private sector to overcome funding constraints to finance and build projects that can improve quality of life  both solving immediate needs and planning for future societal demands.

The report looks at infrastructure based on the dynamics of four key markets: Mature International Markets (like Canada, Australia, UK), Economic Powerhouses (including the US and BRIC countries), Smaller Established Markets (like Chile, Sweden, New Zealand, Korea), and Emerging Markets. The panel of independent industry experts evaluated over 400 diverse and compelling projects to ultimately select the final 100, based on:

Scale How does the scale of the project relate to similar developments in its class?
Feasibility Is the project plan feasible and sustainable?
Complexity How challenging or complex is it to get stakeholder support?
Innovation Is there a particular challenge the project overcomes?
Impact on society Does it improve quality of life or promote economic growth?

With a total estimated value of over US$1.73 trillion, the 100 projects illustrate a range of infrastructure investment, some with a potentially transformative impact that could change the face of nations. Many of the projects are designed to drive economic growth by connecting people and resources to global and local markets (40% of projects featured); others will help provide better access to reliable power and clean water (30% of projects); while others are focused on improving society through things like healthcare and education.

Meeting the funding challenge
However, the Infrastructure 100 also bring to light affordability concerns and the need for governments to make difficult choices about where to spend with funding in short supply. Balancing the aspirations of a nation with the need for true social benefit is not an easy challenge.

“Each country has its own approach to developing and funding infrastructure, yet all share the universal challenge of creating the right conditions to attract investment so desperately needed,” says James Stewart, KPMG’s Chairman of Global Infrastructure. “Private capital continues to play a critical role, but investors need economic and political stability before committing. Consistency and sustainability are the key, in setting policy, the right regulatory environment and establishing a steady deal flow through project pipelines.”

Attracting private investment
The report illustrates the critical role of private investment in meeting the infrastructure challenge, with different investment dynamics in each market category:

Economic powerhouses have significant infrastructure needs  either to support rapid growth and urbanization or to rebuild, repair or upgrade aging assets. “The panel of industry experts identified a surprisingly high reliance on public sector debt sources,” said Stewart.

Emerging markets  represent a frontier for private finance in infrastructure, although a lack of funds, inadequate planning, and unstable political environments have limited the availability of projects that could attract private money.

Mature international markets  A combination of privatization, regulation and a wide range of investors has heightened competition for infrastructure in these markets. An increasing trend for asset sales or privatizations is identified in the report.

Smaller established markets  tend to favor domestic financing, with international financiers restricted by the lack of major projects, competitive local capital and currency risk. However, KPMG’s report notes an increasing need for these markets to consider collaborative, cross-border infrastructure projects that deliver regional economic growth and bring the scale of major projects that international investors are seeking.

Building for the future
The Infrastructure 100: World Markets Report strikes a note of caution over the limited supply of specialist talent that poses a big threat to the momentum of infrastructure development. It also touches on new technology and questions when it will have a meaningful impact on the infrastructure industry in the same way it has transformed other sectors. However, the report also acknowledges the continued ability of the sector to innovate, with trends such as capital recycling and asset management helping to make better use of budgets and generate vital funds for further investment.

“Ultimately, we see a better world supported by infrastructure projects that are desperately needed, those that are opportunistic, and others that are truly visionary,” said Stewart.

About the Infrastructure 100: World Markets Report
This report is the result of in-depth discussions by a distinguished panel of independent industry experts from around the world. It looks at infrastructure in four key markets: mature International markets; economic powerhouses; smaller established markets; and emerging markets. The independent judging panels assessed hundreds of project submissions based on feasibility, social impact, technical and/or financial complexity, innovation and impact on society to ultimately select the final 100.

*View a complete list of the 100 projects online at: www.kpmg.com/infrastructure100

About KPMG’s Global Infrastructure Practice
For more information, visit www.kpmg.com/infrastructure.

About KPMG International
For more information, visit www.kpmg.com

Laura Jablonski, Head of Marketing & Communications, Global Infrastructure, +1-416-777-8849, ljablonski@kpmg.ca; Kent Miller, Global Communications, +1-908-313-5037, ktmiller@kpmg.com

Frost & Sullivan Recognises Europe’s Top Achievers at Excellence in Best Practices Awards Banquet in Monaco

– More than 20 awards to be presented for exemplary best practices

LONDON, Oct. 22, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Frost & Sullivan will host its Excellence in Best Practices Awards Banquet at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort in Monaco on 30th October, 2014. The much anticipated, two-part event celebrates the exceptional performances of companies as well as their strategies, processes and executives.

The 2014 Best Practices Awards Banquet features a veritable who’s who of industry’s premier companies and their leaders. The select recipients are chosen by expert industry analysts on the basis of rigorous performance measurements and comparisons using proprietary methodologies.

Jan E. Kristiansen, Senior Partner and Global Head of Growth Consulting at Frost & Sullivan observes: “Our long-established awards programme recognises companies that have demonstrated a unique approach to doing business in their markets.” We are celebrating the innovation, vision and overall contribution of the following exceptional leaders to business and society. 

During the evening awards ceremony, Olivier Courtade, CEO M2M Solutions, Erik Grab, Vice President Strategic Anticipation, Innovation and Sustainable Development, and Martin Peronnet, CEO Monato Telecom, will be accepting Growth, Innovation & Leadership (GIL) awards honouring the exemplary achievements and best practices these individuals continue to demonstrate within their respective domains.

More than 20 awardees have been drawn from a wide spectrum of sectors spanning IT, healthcare, energy, building technologies, automation, banking, aerospace, chemicals, and materials. Some of the areas of excellence in which best-in-class players will be honoured include product leadership, product innovation, customer service leadership, technology innovation as well as competitive strategy innovation and leadership.

On the night, Frost & Sullivan will award, among others, cross-industry giants such as Siemens and Orange; materials majors, DSM Biomedical and Mibelle Group Biochemistry; energy solution innovators, Asetek and Redavia Solar, and technology trailblazers, Artificial Solutions, Cyan Technology and Humavox.

Given below is the complete list of award recipients:

  • Lamda Guard – 2014 Global Aerospace Product Leadership Award
  • Guaranty Trust Bank – 2014 Nigerian Banking for Small and Medium Enterprises Product Leadership Award
  • Chr. Hansen – 2014 Global Wine Industry New Product Innovation Leadership Award
  • DSM Biomedical – 2014 North American Medical Device Coatings Growth Excellence Leadership Award
  • Mibelle Group Biochemistry – 2014 European Anti-Aging Skin Care New Product Innovation Leadership Award
  • Asetek – 2014 Global Data Center Cooling Solutions New Product Innovation Leadership Award
  • Socomec – 2014 European UPS Company of the Year Award
  • Redavia Solar – 2014 Tanzanian Solar/Diesel Hybrid Power Technology Innovation Leadership Award
  • IDT Biologika – 2014 European Biopharmaceutical Contract Manufacturing Customer Service Leadership Award
  • Orange Healthcare and Weinmann Technologies – 2014 European Homecare Monitoring Competitive Strategy Innovation and Leadership Award
  • Edit Microsystems (Pty) Ldt – 2014 South African eEducation Customer Service Leadership Award
  • Keypasco – 2014 European Secure Authentication New Product Innovation Leadership Award
  • Atlas Copco – 2014 European Service Partnership for Compressors Company of the Year Award
  • Emerson Process Management – 2014 European Industrial Services for Process Automation Company of the Year Award
  • Peroni Pompe – 2014 Global Reciprocating Pumps in Oil and Gas Customer Value Leadership Award
  • AlertMe – 2014 European Connected Home in Internet of Things New Product Innovation Leadership Award
  • ADOCIA – 2014 European Therapeutic Proteins Technology Innovation Leadership Award
  • APATEQ – PWT S.A. – 2014 European Advanced Filtration Technology Innovation Leadership Award
  • Artificial Solutions – 2014 European Natural Language Interaction Platform Enabling Technology Leadership Award
  • Cyan Technology Ltd – 2014 European Smart Metering Technology Innovation Leadership Award
  • Humavox – 2014 Israeli Wireless Charging for Wearable Devices Technology Innovation Leadership Award

The Best Practices Awards Banquet showcases the unparalleled accomplishments of leaders and innovators across industry. Join Frost & Sullivan in applauding these luminaries whose visionary leadership and best practices continues to redefine industry standards.

Event Schedule

Venue:              Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, Monaco

18:30 – 19:30:    Registration and Drinks Reception

19:35 – 19:45:   Welcome Speech and Keynote Address

19:45 onwards:  Awards Ceremony and Dinner

About Frost & Sullivan

Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, works in collaboration with clients to leverage visionary innovation that addresses the global challenges and related growth opportunities that will make or break today’s market participants.

Our “Growth Partnership” supports clients by addressing these opportunities and incorporating two key elements driving visionary innovation: The Integrated Value Proposition and The Partnership Infrastructure.

  • The Integrated Value Proposition provides support to our clients throughout all phases of their journey to visionary innovation including: research, analysis, strategy, vision, innovation and implementation.
  • The Partnership Infrastructure is entirely unique as it constructs the foundation upon which visionary innovation becomes possible. This includes our 360 degree research, comprehensive industry coverage, career best practices as well as our global footprint of more than 40 offices.

For more than 50 years, we have been developing growth strategies for the global 1000, emerging businesses, the public sector and the investment community. Is your organisation prepared for the next profound wave of industry convergence, disruptive technologies, increasing competitive intensity, Mega Trends, breakthrough best practices, changing customer dynamics and emerging economies?

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Melanie Parkinson
Promotions Co-Ordinator, Europe
Best Practices, Frost & Sullivan
+44-(0)-207-915-7867
melanie.parkinson@frost.com

Asia’s Top Companies celebrated for industry excellence at Frost & Sullivan 2014 Asia Pacific Best Practices Awards

SINGAPORE, Oct. 17, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Lauded for their best practices and continued success within their respective industries, Asia’s leading companies were recognized at the 2014 Frost & Sullivan Asia Pacific Best Practices Awards held at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

In its seventh year, the annual Frost & Sullivan Asia Pacific Best Practices Awards recognize companies that have implemented best practices in their industry, as well as demonstrated excellent achievements and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation and strategic product and service development. These industries include Energy & Power, Environmental & Building Technologies, Healthcare, Industrial Technologies, Logistics and Information & Communication Technologies.

In his remarks at the evening gala, Manoj Menon, Senior Partner & Asia Pacific Managing Director, Frost & Sullivan said, “On a global scale, we are seeing significant economic challenges which can significantly impact company performance. Hence, it is a necessity for companies to continually drive innovation and growth to remain competitive.”

Our industry research program identifies and recognizes companies that have successfully implemented these strategies within their respective industries. The awards tonight celebrate their stellar performance.”

The awards recognize companies across the region and seek to showcase best practices in industry segments which are synonymous with Frost & Sullivan’s in-depth analysis and coverage of these industries. In keeping with our dedication to excellence and innovation, the awards offered are carefully reviewed and evaluated to reflect the current market landscape and includes new emerging sectors.

For more details on the 2014 Frost & Sullivan Asia Pacific Best Practices Awards, please visit http://www.apacbp-awards.com

Media partners for the awards banquet include Asia Research News, Asia Pacific Broadcasting magazine, Top 10 of Asia, August Man, Prestige, (PIN) Prestige.

To obtain photographs from the event, please contact Melissa Tan at melissa.tan@frost.com

CATEGORY

AWARD

RECIPIENT

Country

Greater China Contact Center Outsourcing Customer Service Leadership Award

PCCW Teleservices (Hong Kong) Limited

Malaysia Enterprise Telephony System Integrator of the Year

Jumbohan

Thailand Data Communication Service Provider of the Year

UIH

Japan Aged Care Service Company of the Year

NICHII GAKKAN COMPANY

Southeast Asia

ASEAN Unified Communications System Integrator of the Year

Jebsen & Jessen Communications

ASEAN Contact Center Applications System Integrator of the Year

Southeast Asia UPS Industry Product Line Strategy Leadership Award

Eaton

Southeast Asia UPS Competitive Strategy Innovation and Leadership Award

Fuji Electric Co. Ltd

Southeast Asia UPS Vendor of the Year

Schneider Electric

Southeast Asia UPS Service Provider of the Year

Schneider Electric

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific CRO Growth Excellence Leadership Award

Covance Inc.

Asia Pacific Emerging CRO Company of the Year

CMIC

Asia Pacific Mobile Health & Wellness Tracking New Product Innovation Award

Zensorium

Asia Pacific Healthcare Telecommunication Services Company of the Year

SK Telecom

Asia Pacific Healthcare IT Company of the Year

GE Healthcare

Asia Pacific Networking Equipment Product Line Differentiation Award

Huawei

Asia Pacific Banking Industry Unified Communication Solutions Product Innovation Leadership Award

Thailand Enterprise Telephony Vendor of the Year

Avaya

Thailand Unified Communications Vendor of the Year

Malaysia Contact Center Applications Vendor of the Year

Philippines Contact Center Applications Vendor of the Year

ASEAN Contact Center Applications Vendor of the Year

ASEAN Unified Communications Vendor of the Year

Asia Pacific Multi-Purpose Terminal Operator of the Year

Jurong Port

Asia Pacific Logistics Infrastructure Developer Of The Year

Mapletree Logistics

Asia Pacific Regional Logistics Service Provider of the Year

CWT Limited

Asia Pacific Water Filtration Product Line Strategy Leadership Award

Elken

Asia Pacific Water Filtration Company of the Year

Amway

Asia Pacific Water Technology Company of the Year

Hyflux

Asia Pacific Bottled Water Company of the Year

Spritzer

Asia Pacific Facilities Management Growth Excellence Leadership Award

ISS

Asia Pacific Facilities Management Company of the Year

Asia Pacific Data Center Green Innovation Leadership Award

Equinix

Asia Pacific Data Center Integrated Power Infrastructure Growth Excellence Leadership Award

Emerson Network Power

Asia Pacific Data Center Integrated Power Infrastructure Company of the Year

Schneider Electric

Asia Pacific Advanced Metering Infrastructure Company of the Year

Toshiba

Asia Pacific Cloud Contact Center Service Provider of the Year

Orange Business Services

Asia Pacific Unified Communications Headset Vendor of the Year

Jabra GN Netcom(S) Pte Ltd

Asia Pacific Headset Vendor of the Year

Asia Pacific Enterprise Networking Customer Value Enhancement Award

Avaya

Asia Pacific Data Communications Product Line Differentiation Award

Pacnet

Asia Pacific Inbound Contact Routing Systems Market Share Leadership Award

Avaya

Asia Pacific Self-Service Systems Market Share Leadership Award

Asia Pacific Call Monitoring Systems Market Share Leadership Award

Verint Systems

Asia Pacific Video Collaboration Price Performance Value Leadership Award

Lifesize

Asia Pacific Video Collaboration Growth Excellence Leadership Award

Avaya

Asia Pacific Customer Value Enhancement Award in DC Power Systems

Enatel

Global

Global DC Power Systems Product Leadership Award

Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.

About Frost & Sullivan

Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, works in collaboration with clients to leverage visionary innovation that addresses the global challenges and related growth opportunities that will make or break today’s market participants. For more than 50 years, we have been developing growth strategies for the global 1000, emerging businesses, the public sector and the investment community. Is your organization prepared for the next profound wave of industry convergence, disruptive technologies, increasing competitive intensity, Mega Trends, breakthrough best practices, changing customer dynamics and emerging economies? Contact us: Start the discussion

MEDIA CONTACT:

Melissa Tan
Corporate Communications, Asia Pacific
P: +65-6890-0926
E: melissa.tan@frost.com

2014 Frost & Sullivan Singapore Excellence Awards Celebrates Singapore’s Leading Companies

~ Keppel Logistics, Sembcorp and Avaya among companies honoured

SINGAPORE, Oct. 17, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Singapore’s top companies were recognized for their achievements at the 2014 Frost & Sullivan Singapore Excellence Awards.

In its second year, the awards aim to commend companies which have demonstrated best practices and outstanding performance across their various industries in the Singapore market. These industries include aerospace & defense, chemicals, energy, environment & building, healthcare, information & communication technologies and logistics.

Mr. Manoj Menon, Senior Partner & Asia Pacific Managing Director, Frost & Sullivan said “The annual Frost & Sullivan Singapore Excellence Awards allow us to identify and recognize the companies whom have excelled in driving innovation and best practices in the competitive business arena.”

“We hope that these awards will continue to spur these industries forward by showcasing leading companies and individuals who have become and remain role models for the industry,” he added.

Award recipients for the 2014 Frost & Sullivan Singapore Excellence Awards were identified based on in-depth interviews, analysis, and extensive secondary research conducted by Frost & Sullivan’s analysts. Companies are typically researched on their revenues, market share, capabilities, and overall contribution to the industry.

The findings of the detailed evaluation will then be presented to a panel of judges to decide the recipient for each category. Information on the award methodology can be found at http://www.frost-apac.com/singaporeawards/selection_process_criteria.htm.

For more details on the 2014 Singapore Excellence Awards, please visit http://www.frost-apac.com/singaporeawards/index.htm

Celebrating Singapore’s Best

Frost & Sullivan congratulates all recipients of the Frost & Sullivan Singapore Excellence Awards 2014.

2014 Frost & Sullivan Singapore Excellence Awards Recipients

Category

Award Recipient

AEROSPACE & DEFENSE


Ground Support Solutions Market Leadership Award 

SATS Ltd

CHEMICALS, MATERIALS & FOOD


Home-Grown Specialty Chemicals Company of the Year 

MegaChem Ltd

ENVIRONMENT & BUILDING TECHNOLOGIES


Integrated Facilities Management Company of the Year 

Jones Lang LaSalle


Waste Management Company of the Year 

Sembcorp


Waste Recovery Company of the Year 

ENERGY


Solar Energy System Integrator Company of the Year 

Sunseap Leasing

HEALTHCARE


Telehealth Company of the Year 

myHealth Sentinel

ICT


Contact Center Applications Vendor Of the Year 

Avaya

TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS


Domestic Logistics Service Provider of the Year 

Keppel Logistics

About Frost & Sullivan

Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, works in collaboration with clients to leverage visionary innovation that addresses the global challenges and related growth opportunities that will make or break today’s market participants. For more than 50 years, we have been developing growth strategies for the global 1000, emerging businesses, the public sector and the investment community. Is your organization prepared for the next profound wave of industry convergence, disruptive technologies, increasing competitive intensity, Mega Trends, breakthrough best practices, changing customer dynamics and emerging economies? Contact us: Start the discussion

Media contact:

Melissa Tan
Corporate Communications, Asia Pacific
P: +65-6890-0926
E: melissa.tan@frost.com

Emerging Contaminants in Drinking Water Cause Consumer Health Concerns

— NSF International survey findings reinforce the need for NSF International water quality standard

ANN ARBOR, Michigan, Oct. 14, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — A vast majority (82 percent) of consumers report they are concerned about trace levels of emerging contaminants in drinking water, such as pesticides and herbicides (87 percent), prescription drugs (34 percent) and detergents (24 percent), according to a new survey from NSF International, a global public health and safety organization.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110602/DC13023LOGO

Emerging contaminants include some prescription drugs, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, flame retardants, detergents and new types of herbicides and pesticides, which have been detected at trace levels in drinking water. Although the health risks associated with trace levels of emerging contaminants are not yet well understood, their presence in drinking water at even low levels has many consumers concerned.

Download: Consumer Fact Sheet | Infographic | Audio News Release | Certified Product Listings

The survey also indicated that despite these concerns, most consumers still improperly dispose of some of these emerging contaminants by throwing unused prescription and OTC drugs in the garbage (34 percent) or flushing them down the toilet (19 percent). Only 28 percent said they correctly bring them to a pharmacist or clinic for disposal.

“NSF International’s survey results clearly show that consumers are very aware of and concerned about emerging contaminants in drinking water. While the industry isn’t currently aware of negative health effects associated with trace levels of these contaminants, many consumers understandably want to have the highest quality drinking water possible for themselves and their family. NSF International has developed a standard that tests the ability of home water treatment devices to reduce some of these emerging contaminants in drinking water,” said Rick Andrew, NSF International Drinking Water Treatment Expert.

The standard, NSF/ANSI 401: Drinking Water Treatment Units – Emerging Compounds/Incidental Contaminants, evaluates the ability of water treatment devices to reduce up to 15 emerging contaminants in drinking water, including some prescription/OTC drugs, some new types of herbicides and pesticides and chemicals used as flame retardants and detergents.

More than 56 products have already been certified to the standard by major manufacturers including 3M Purification Inc., Access Business Group LLC, Amway China Co., Aquasana Inc., Electrolux Home Products, Everpure LLC, General Electric Company, Kaz USA Inc., Kemflo / Filbur and Whirlpool Corporation. Visit NSF’s certified product listings to find home water treatment devices that address selected emerging contaminants.

“NSF International’s mission is to protect and improve public health which is why we developed the NSF/ANSI 401 standard as a solution for consumers worried about emerging contaminants in their drinking water,” said Andrew. “There is still so much we don’t know about the effects of long-term exposure to these contaminants. While science and industry work to better understand emerging contaminants, consumers can rely on the certified treatment products available.”

Survey Methodology: NSF International’s Water Quality Insight Survey was conducted by telephone among two national probability samples, which, when combined, consists of 1,014 adults, 509 men and 505 women 18 years of age and older, living in the continental United States. Interviewing for this CARAVAN® Survey was completed on August 21-24, 2014. 400 interviews were from the landline sample and 614 interviews from the cell phone sample.

About NSF International: Founded in 1944, NSF International is committed to protecting human health and safety worldwide. Operating in more than 155 countries, NSF is a Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization Collaborating Center on Food Safety, Water Quality and Indoor Environment. NSF is a global independent organization that writes standards, and tests and certifies products for the water, food, health sciences and consumer goods industries to minimize adverse health effects and protect the environment (nsf.org).

NSF led the development of the American National Standards for all materials and products that treat or come in contact with drinking water. In 1990, the U.S. EPA replaced its own drinking water product advisory program with these NSF standards. Today, all major plumbing codes require certification to NSF standards for pipes and plumbing components in commercial and residential buildings. As an American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-accredited organization, NSF continues its 43-year leadership in developing water standards with the development of NSF/ANSI 401: Drinking Water Treatment Units – Emerging Compounds/Incidental Contaminants.

CONTACT: Kelly Ingerly, +1-734-827-6850, media@nsf.org