Astro Adventure' programme to unveil wonders of space
Chen Meng Lookahead Video for the First LaWa Cup: Let's Look Forward TogetherFort Wright asks state to take over Dudley Road bridgeAs the Bilibili streamer navigates through the treacherous landscapes of "Dark Myth" and engages in intense battles with the formidable monsters, viewers are treated to a masterclass in strategy and resource management. Each move is carefully calculated, each decision weighed against the formidable might of the monsters that stand in their way. It's a thrilling spectacle of skill and determination, with the outcome hanging in the balance with every move.
Not so intelligent after all Many people believe that in future, AI will play an even more significant role in their lives If there is one phrase that seems to be dominating discussions worldwide, it has to be ‘Artificial Intelligence.’ AI has already become an essential tool for researchers, freelancers, corporations, businessmen, and countless others, helping them efficiently carry out their day-to-day tasks. Many people believe that in the future, it will play an even more significant role in their lives, providing unparalleled convenience and driving success in almost every kind of work humans engage in. It is generally viewed as a technological advancement with the potential to benefit mankind in countless ways. To a large extent, this perception may hold. AI is still in its formative stages and incapable of generating content that surpasses the quality of, say, an essay written by a grade-school student or slightly above that level. However, its potential for growth is vast, and most experts agree that advancements in AI are inevitable. But is this necessarily a good thing? AI represents the second form of intelligence, distinct from the natural intelligence that humans are born with and rely on throughout their lives. What it means for humanity to coexist with this alternative, rival, or perhaps complementary form of intelligence is a question that demands exploration and understanding. In countries like Pakistan, where there is already a significant surplus of manpower, the use of AI to replace humans in mundane and repetitive jobs – such as manning hotel receptions or operating cash tills in grocery stores – raises serious questions. Will the removal of such jobs from human workers harm society or help it in any way? One possible answer lies in equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to use AI to their advantage. However, implementing such measures in Pakistan is fraught with challenges. For AI to truly be beneficial, education and training in its use must start at the school level, with lessons introduced as early as the primary grades. Yet, the reality of Pakistan’s education system presents significant hurdles. The country’s official literacy rate hovers just above 60 per cent, and for women, it is much lower. In practical terms, organisations working in the field of education estimate that real literacy rates are even lower, as literacy is often defined as the mere ability to sign a document or perform a basic numerical task. Moving from this point to a level where workers in factories or workshops can competently use AI would require nothing less than a complete overhaul of the existing education system. This grim reality suggests that AI could exacerbate the hardships faced by Pakistan’s impoverished population, widening the gap between the haves and the have-nots. A similar argument can be made for other developing nations with comparable challenges. It is not merely about introducing AI to these societies but ensuring that it does not deepen existing inequities. In a country where unemployment rates are already high, replacing even the most basic jobs with AI could have devastating consequences for millions of families. Even in developed countries, where education levels and technological infrastructure are far superior, there are growing concerns about the potential risks of AI. Interestingly, some of the loudest warnings have come from individuals who were instrumental in developing the first AI tools. These experts argue that AI’s rollout occurred too rapidly, leaving insufficient time for a comprehensive analysis of its pros and cons. This rush was driven by intense competition among corporations and governments – a hallmark of our capitalist world. One of the most pressing concerns raised by experts is what could happen if AI surpasses human intelligence. Such a scenario, they suggest, could lead to disasters even more severe than the ongoing climate crisis. For example, there is the alarming possibility that AI systems, manipulated by malicious actors, could seize control of security systems, misuse sensitive data such as credit card information, or even shut down power grids in entire cities or countries. Such scenarios underscore the urgent need for caution and proactive measures. AI also compels us to reflect on the social and cultural changes it might bring. In today’s world, where social isolation is already a growing issue, will AI make our lives more connected or deepen our loneliness? For instance, AI’s ability to create hyper-realistic images and holograms raises profound questions. Musicians and singers, reproduced as holograms, could perform on stage with the same voice and accuracy as their human counterparts, and at a fraction of the cost. If this becomes the norm, will audiences still value live human performances? Such possibilities challenge our notions of creativity, artistry, and human uniqueness. Ethical concerns are another critical dimension of the AI debate. AI, being devoid of emotions, compassion, or empathy, operates without any moral compass. Intelligence untempered by these qualities can be a deeply unsettling prospect. The entire scenario resembles a science fiction story, eerily echoing the dystopian visions of robots and artificial beings imagined in literature long before today. Another issue to consider is how AI might redefine employment and productivity. For instance, as AI systems become more sophisticated, they could potentially eliminate not only low-skill jobs but also roles requiring mid-level expertise. This raises the question of whether AI will render certain professions obsolete and what society can do to adapt to such changes. Some argue that this will open up opportunities for new kinds of jobs, ones that we cannot yet envision. Others warn that the transition will not be smooth and will disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. As humanity stands at this crossroads, we must carefully consider the path forward. The development of AI is now irreversible, much like the invention of the atom bomb. The warnings sounded at the early stages of AI’s development were largely ignored, and we now face the consequences of that oversight. The future trajectory of AI remains uncertain – it could either prove to be a transformative force for good, bringing unparalleled benefits to people around the globe, or it could pose an existential threat to humanity. The only viable course of action is to approach AI with vigilance and responsibility. Governments, corporations, and civil society must come together to establish guidelines, regulations, and ethical frameworks to ensure that AI is used in ways that enhance, rather than undermine, the well-being of humanity. Additionally, education systems around the world must adapt to prepare the next generation for a world where AI is omnipresent. Ultimately, AI is a tool, and like any tool, its impact will depend on how it is used. It has the potential to revolutionise industries, improve healthcare, and address complex global challenges. At the same time, it carries the risk of misuse and unintended consequences. The stakes could not be higher, and the time to act is now. The writer is a freelance columnist and former newspaper editor. She can be reached at: kamilahyat@hotmail.com
With its innovative gameplay features, stunning visuals, and immersive storytelling, "Black Myth: Wukong" continues to captivate gamers and enthusiasts alike, setting a new standard for action-adventure gaming. Stay tuned for more updates and announcements as the release date draws closer, and prepare to embark on an epic journey filled with danger, mystery, and the allure of ancient legends brought to life in this groundbreaking title.Hoda Kotb drops ‘clue’ she’s back with her ex in new photos of cozy Christmas decor inside new suburban NYC homeRuud van Nistelrooy ‘disappointed’ and ‘hurt’ after cutting ties with Man Utd
As we wait for any official announcements from CD Projekt Red about the future of the Witcher series, fans can take comfort in the fact that the company's commitment to delivering high-quality gaming experiences remains unwavering. While the specifics of "The Witcher 4" may still be a mystery, one thing is certain – when it does finally make its debut, it is sure to be an adventure worth waiting for.
Title: Can Barcelona Continue Their Unbeaten Record Against Borussia Dortmund?The Golan Heights, a disputed territory situated between Israel and Syria, has been a contentious issue for decades. Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria during the Six-Day War in 1967 and later annexed it in 1981, a move not recognized by the international community. The region holds strategic importance for Israel due to its elevated position overlooking Israeli territory, making it a crucial military asset in defending against potential threats from Syria.
Saturday, December 21, 2024 As the holiday season approaches, Air Canada is ready to welcome over 2.2 million travelers across North America and beyond, ensuring a seamless travel experience. The airline is ramping up its customer support by increasing on-ground assistance and enhancing its mobile app to make journeys smoother and more enjoyable during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Enhanced Customer Support and Warm Greetings Air Canada has bolstered its airport staff to provide personalized assistance, prioritizing travelers with accessibility needs and unaccompanied minors. “The holidays are a special time, and our teams are ready to go above and beyond to deliver exceptional service,” said Tom Stevens, Vice President of Canadian Airports and Customer Experience Strategy at Air Canada. To celebrate the season, Air Canada surprised travelers with special gifts and will offer complimentary festive snacks, such as Biscoff Cookies and TWIGZ pretzels, at major Canadian airports starting December 16. Peace of Mind with Advanced Technology The Air Canada mobile app now features upgraded tools, including real-time updates, digital boarding passes, and gate maps, to enhance travel confidence. A notable innovation is the integration of Apple’s Share Item Location feature, enabling passengers to track their baggage via AirTags and share its location with Air Canada agents for quicker reunions in case of delays. Aeroplan Members can also take advantage of a special AirTag promotion during the Aeroplan eStore Boxing Event, running until December 26. Festive Cheer in the Sky Air Canada is spreading holiday cheer on its flights with complimentary beer and wine now a permanent offering on domestic and U.S. routes. Travelers can enjoy a curated selection of beverages alongside chef-inspired menus, premium snacks, and an expanded in-flight entertainment library featuring 35 new holiday-themed titles like The Family Stone and Love Actually . Younger passengers on select flights will receive Lindt Teddy Bear chocolates, and Santa Claus will make appearances at major Canadian airports. Signature Class passengers can indulge in a specially crafted holiday menu from December 12 to 26, featuring festive food and beverages. Looking Ahead to 2025 Air Canada’s commitment to elevating the travel experience continues beyond the holidays. In 2025, the airline will introduce fast, free Wi-Fi for Aeroplan Members on North American flights, sponsored by Bell, starting in May. This service will expand across Air Canada Rouge and Air Canada Express flights, with most of the fleet equipped by year-end. These initiatives build on Air Canada’s ongoing enhancements, including new chef-inspired meals, live TV, expanded mobile app features, and upgraded Aeroplan benefits. As Air Canada connects millions of Canadians with loved ones this holiday season, the airline is delivering comfort, joy, and memorable experiences to every journey.The third and final "One" in the proverb pertains to the behavior of animals, particularly birds, on the first week of December. If birds are observed flying south in large numbers or displaying restless behavior, it is believed to signal a harsh winter with prolonged cold spells. In contrast, if birds remain in the area and appear calm, it is seen as an indication of a gentler winter ahead.
NOVONIX and PowerCo SE Sign Binding Offtake AgreementIn response to the growing importance of retirement planning and the need for comprehensive financial security in old age, the bank is pleased to announce that a video conference on the full implementation of the personal pension system will be held in mid-month. This conference aims to provide valuable information and guidance to all our customers regarding the upcoming changes in the personal pension system and how they can best prepare for a secure and stable retirement.
What makes this player's resurgence even more remarkable is the fact that he has overcome the odds and proved his doubters wrong. Many had written him off as a failed talent, a player who never lived up to his potential. However, his incredible performances in Ligue 1 have silenced the naysayers and put him back on the radar of top clubs looking to bolster their attacking options.
The lack of top-quality signings in the 2024 summer transfer window has raised questions about the competitiveness of the Premier League and the ambition of its top clubs. While the reliance on veteran players has paid off in the short term, there are concerns about whether these players can maintain their form and fitness over the course of a grueling season. Additionally, the failure to strengthen squads with fresh talent could hamper the chances of top teams competing for major honors both domestically and in Europe.Net sales increased 2% versus last year with comparable sales up 1% Operating margin of 9.3% improved 270 basis points versus last year Market share gains across all brands in the quarter Raises outlook for fiscal 2024 net sales, gross margin and operating income growth SAN FRANCISCO , Nov. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Gap Inc. (NYSE: GAP), the largest specialty apparel company in the U.S. and a house of iconic brands including Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, and Athleta, today reported financial results for its third quarter ended November 2, 2024. "I'm proud that Gap Inc. delivered another successful quarter, growing net sales for the 4 th consecutive quarter and gaining market share across all brands while meaningfully expanding operating margin," said President and Chief Executive Officer, Richard Dickson . "Consistent execution of our strategic priorities, including the rigor and repetition we're applying to our brand reinvigoration playbook, is making us a stronger company and demonstrates our continued progress in unlocking Gap Inc.'s full potential." Dickson continued: "Holiday is off to a strong start and we remain focused on executing with excellence in the fourth quarter. Our performance year-to-date gives us the confidence to raise our full year outlook for sales, gross margin and operating income growth." Third Quarter Fiscal 2024 – Financial Results Balance Sheet and Cash Flow Highlights Additional information regarding free cash flow, which is a non-GAAP financial measure, is provided at the end of this press release along with a reconciliation of this measure from the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure for the applicable period. Third Quarter Fiscal 2024 – Global Brand Results Comparable Sales Third Quarter 2024 2023 Old Navy — % 1 % Gap 3 % (1) % Banana Republic (1) % (8) % Athleta 5 % (19) % Gap Inc. 1 % (2) % Old Navy: Gap: Banana Republic: Athleta: Fiscal 2024 Outlook As a result of its strong third quarter results, the company is raising its full year outlook for net sales, gross margin and operating income growth compared to prior expectations. Please note that the company's projected full year fiscal 2024 operating income growth below is provided in comparison to its full year fiscal 2023 adjusted operating income, which excludes $93 million in restructuring costs and a $47 million gain on sale of a building. Full Year Fiscal 2024 Current FY24 Outlook Prior FY24 Outlook FY23 Results Net sales Up 1.5% to 2.0% on a 52-week basis Up slightly on a 52-week basis $14.9 billion 1 Gross margin Approximately 220 bps expansion Approximately 200 bps expansion 38.8 % Operating expense Approximately $5.1 billion Approximately $5.1 billion $5.17 billion (adjusted) 2 Operating income Mid to High 60% growth range Mid to High 50% growth range $606 million (adjusted) 3 Effective tax rate Approximately 26.5% Approximately 28% 9.7 % Capital expenditures Approximately $500 million Approximately $500 million $420 million 1 Fiscal year 2023 consisted of 53 weeks and the extra week drove approximately $160 million of incremental sales. 2 Fiscal year 2023 adjusted operating expense of $5.17 billion excludes $89 million in restructuring costs and a $47 million gain on sale. 3 Fiscal year 2023 adjusted operating income of $606 million excludes $93 million in restructuring costs and a $47 million gain on sale. Webcast and Conference Call Information Whitney Notaro , Head of Investor Relations at Gap Inc., will host a conference call to review the company's third quarter fiscal 2024 results beginning at approximately 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time today. Ms. Notaro will be joined by President and Chief Executive Officer, Richard Dickson and Chief Financial Officer, Katrina O'Connell . A live webcast of the conference call and accompanying materials will be available online at investors.gapinc.com . A replay of the webcast will be available at the same location. Non-GAAP Disclosure This press release and related conference call include financial measures that have not been calculated in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and are therefore referred to as non-GAAP financial measures. The non-GAAP measures described below are intended to provide investors with additional useful information about the company's financial performance, to enhance the overall understanding of its past performance and future prospects, and to allow for greater transparency with respect to important metrics used by management for financial and operating decision-making. The company presents these non-GAAP financial measures to assist investors in seeing its financial performance from management's view and because it believes they provide an additional tool for investors to use in computing the company's core financial performance over multiple periods with other companies in its industry. Additional information regarding the intended use of non-GAAP measures included in this press release and related conference call is provided in the tables to this press release. The non-GAAP measures included in this press release and related conference call are adjusted operating expense/adjusted SG&A, adjusted operating income, adjusted operating margin, adjusted diluted earnings per share, and free cash flow. These non-GAAP measures exclude the impact of certain items that are set forth in the tables to this press release. In addition, the company's outlook includes projected full year fiscal 2024 operating income growth compared to its full year fiscal 2023 adjusted operating income. The non-GAAP measures used by the company should not be considered as a substitute for, or superior to, measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP and may not be the same as similarly titled measures used by other companies due to possible differences in method and in items or events being adjusted. The company urges investors to review the reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures included in the tables to this press release below, and not to rely on any single financial measure to evaluate its business. The non-GAAP financial measures used by the company have limitations in their usefulness to investors because they have no standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and are not prepared under any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles. Forward-Looking Statements This press release and related conference call and accompanying materials contain forward-looking statements within the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than those that are purely historical are forward-looking statements. Words such as "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "project," and similar expressions also identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding the following: becoming a high performing company; unlocking Gap Inc.'s potential; our four strategic priorities, including maintaining and delivering financial and operational rigor, the reinvigoration of our brands, strengthening our operating platform, and energizing our culture; driving relevance and revenue by executing on our brand reinvigoration playbook; expectations for Old Navy for the holiday season; accelerating Old Navy's presence in the Active category; Old Navy's holiday activations and product; reigniting Gap brand's leadership in trend-right products and creative expression through big ideas and culturally relevant messaging; reestablishing Banana Republic to thrive in the premium lifestyle space; evolving Banana Republic's assortment and fit; continuing to fix the fundamentals at Banana Republic; Banana Republic's holiday product; Athleta's trajectory; Athleta's holiday product; enhancing Athleta's in-store and online experiences; driving high-performance across our teams; executing with excellence; Gap Inc.'s positioning going into the holiday season; expectations for our full year performance; expected year-end inventory levels; expected full year fiscal 2024 net sales; the expected impact of the loss of the 53rd week on full year fiscal 2024 net sales; expected fourth quarter fiscal 2024 net sales; the expected impacts of the loss of the 53rd week and the weekly calendar shift on fourth quarter fiscal 2024 net sales; expected full year fiscal 2024 gross margin; the expected impacts of commodity costs and better inventory management on full year fiscal 2024 gross margin; expected full year fiscal 2024 ROD; expected fourth quarter fiscal 2024 gross margin; the expected impact of the loss of the 53rd week on fourth quarter fiscal 2024 gross margin; expected full year fiscal 2024 SG&A/operating expense; continuing cost discipline and unlocking more efficiencies in the business; expected full year fiscal 2024 operating income; expected full year fiscal 2024 effective tax rate; expected full year fiscal 2024 capital expenditures; generating sustainable, profitable growth and delivering long-term shareholder value; and our dividend policy. Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. These factors include, without limitation, the following risks, any of which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or reputation: the overall global economic and geopolitical environment, including the ongoing Russia - Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts and recent elections in the United States , and impacts on consumer spending patterns; social and political unrest in our sourcing countries, including Bangladesh , and disruptions to global trade and shipping capacity, including in the Red Sea; the risk that we or our franchisees may be unsuccessful in gauging apparel trends and changing consumer preferences or responding with sufficient lead time; the highly competitive nature of our business in the United States and internationally; the risk that we may be unable to manage our inventory effectively and the resulting impact on our gross margins and sales; the risk that our investments in customer, digital, and omni-channel shopping initiatives may not deliver the results we anticipate; the risk that we fail to maintain, enhance, and protect our brand image and reputation; the risk of loss or theft of assets, including inventory shortage; the risk that we fail to manage key executive succession and retention or continue to attract qualified personnel; reductions in income and cash flow from our credit card arrangement related to our private label and co-branded credit cards; the risk that changes in our business strategy or restructuring our operations may not generate the intended benefits or projected cost savings; the risk that trade matters could increase the cost or reduce the supply of apparel available to us; the risks to our business, including our costs and global supply chain, associated with global sourcing and manufacturing; the risks to our reputation or operations associated with importing merchandise from foreign countries, including failure of our vendors to adhere to our Code of Vendor Conduct; the risk that we or our franchisees may be unsuccessful in identifying, negotiating, and securing new store locations and renewing, modifying, or terminating leases for existing store locations effectively; engaging in or seeking to engage in strategic transactions that are subject to various risks and uncertainties; the risk that our efforts to expand internationally may not be successful; the risk that our franchisees and licensees could impair the value of our brands; the risk of data or other security breaches or vulnerabilities that may result in increased costs, violations of law, significant legal and financial exposure, and a loss of confidence in our security measures; the risk that failures of, or updates or changes to, our IT systems may disrupt our operations; the risk that our comparable sales and margins may experience fluctuations, that we may fail to meet financial market expectations, or that the seasonality of our business may experience fluctuations; the risk of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations; the risk that our level of indebtedness may impact our ability to operate and expand our business; the risk that we and our subsidiaries may be unable to meet our obligations under our indebtedness agreements; the risk that changes in our credit profile or deterioration in market conditions may limit our access to the capital markets; natural disasters, public health crises (such as pandemics and epidemics), political crises (such as the ongoing Russia - Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts), negative global climate patterns, or other catastrophic events; evolving regulations and expectations with respect to ESG matters, including climate reporting; the adverse effects of climate change on our operations and those of our franchisees, vendors, and other business partners; our failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations and changes in the regulatory or administrative landscape; the risk that we will not be successful in defending various proceedings, lawsuits, disputes, and claims; the risk that our estimates and assumptions used when preparing our financial information are inaccurate or may change; the risk that changes in the geographic mix and level of income or losses, the expected or actual outcome of audits, changes in deferred tax valuation allowances, and new legislation could impact our effective tax rate, or that we may be required to pay amounts in excess of established tax liabilities; the risk that changes in our business structure, our performance or our industry could result in reductions in our pre-tax income or utilization of existing tax carryforwards in future periods, and require additional deferred tax valuation allowances; the risk that the adoption of new accounting pronouncements will impact future results; and the risk that additional information may arise during our close process or as a result of subsequent events that would require us to make adjustments to our financial information. Additional information regarding factors that could cause results to differ can be found in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 19, 2024 , as well as our subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements are based on information as of November 21, 2024 . We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise our forward-looking statements even if experience or future changes make it clear that any projected results expressed or implied therein will not be realized. About Gap Inc. Gap Inc., a house of iconic brands, is the largest specialty apparel company in America. Its Old Navy , Gap , Banana Republic , and Athleta brands offer clothing, accessories, and lifestyle products for men, women and children. Since 1969, Gap Inc. has created products and experiences that shape culture, while doing right by employees, communities and the planet. Gap Inc. products are available worldwide through company-operated stores, franchise stores, and e-commerce sites. Fiscal year 2023 net sales were $14.9 billion . For more information, please visit www.gapinc.com . Investor Relations Contact: Nina Bari Investor_relations@gap.com Media Relations Contact: Megan Foote Press@gap.com The Gap, Inc. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS UNAUDITED ($ in millions) November 2, 2024 October 28, 2023 ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,969 $ 1,351 Short-term investments 250 — Merchandise inventory 2,331 2,377 Other current assets 580 646 Total current assets 5,130 4,374 Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation 2,546 2,552 Operating lease assets 3,217 3,200 Other long-term assets 960 926 Total assets $ 11,853 $ 11,052 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 1,523 $ 1,433 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 1,135 1,078 Current portion of operating lease liabilities 617 604 Income taxes payable 50 24 Total current liabilities 3,325 3,139 Long-term liabilities: Long-term debt 1,489 1,488 Long-term operating lease liabilities 3,360 3,456 Other long-term liabilities 544 509 Total long-term liabilities 5,393 5,453 Total stockholders' equity 3,135 2,460 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 11,853 $ 11,052 The Gap, Inc. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS UNAUDITED 13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended ($ and shares in millions except per share amounts) November 2, 2024 October 28, 2023 November 2, 2024 October 28, 2023 Net sales $ 3,829 $ 3,767 $ 10,937 $ 10,591 Cost of goods sold and occupancy expenses 2,194 2,211 6,322 6,488 Gross profit 1,635 1,556 4,615 4,103 Operating expenses 1,280 1,306 3,762 3,757 Operating income 355 250 853 346 Interest, net (6) — (12) 8 Income before income taxes 361 250 865 338 Income tax expense 87 32 227 21 Net income $ 274 $ 218 $ 638 $ 317 Weighted-average number of shares - basic 377 371 376 369 Weighted-average number of shares - diluted 383 375 383 373 Earnings per share - basic $ 0.73 $ 0.59 $ 1.70 $ 0.86 Earnings per share - diluted $ 0.72 $ 0.58 $ 1.67 $ 0.85 The Gap, Inc. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS UNAUDITED 39 Weeks Ended ($ in millions) November 2, 2024 (a) October 28, 2023 (a) Cash flows from operating activities: Net income $ 638 $ 317 Depreciation and amortization 371 394 Gain on sale of building — (47) Change in merchandise inventory (344) (5) Change in accounts payable 156 133 Other, netMCKINNEY, Texas , Dec. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hartwater Aesthetics ® , a leading medical aesthetic brand, announced an expansion of its clinical and leadership team with the addition of a new aesthetic provider and a new practice manager at its location in McKinney, TX. The Hartwater Clinical team is joined by Tiffany Byres , LMA, a licensed Medical Aesthetician, Certified Laser Technician, and Laser Safety Officer with 13 years of experience in the plastic surgery and medical aesthetics space. Byres brings to Hartwater an extensive knowledge of skin care techniques and protocols as well as expertise with numerous laser technologies and other treatments to provide top-quality care to patients. Joining the leadership team as Practice Manager is Lauren Parker , an experienced operational and sales leader in the beauty industry. Parker will oversee daily operations at the practice and ensure the continued delivery of a seamless, patient-focused experience. This growth reflects Hartwater's ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional care and innovative services to its patients. The team expansion marks an exciting new chapter for Hartwater Aesthetics ® as it continues to set the standard for medical aesthetic care. About Hartwater Aesthetics ® Hartwater Aesthetics ® is a premier medical aesthetic practice offering industry-leading treatments for the face, body, and skin. It is home to a team of world-class aesthetic providers and uses the most state-of-the-art technology to offer patients the highest quality of care available. Media Contact: pr@h artwatera esthetics.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hartwater-aesthetics-expands-team-302337620.html SOURCE Hartwater Aesthetics
For Real Madrid, the time for excuses is over. It is now a matter of pride and honor for the players to rise to the challenge and show their true colors. The club's illustrious history and tradition demand nothing less than a fighting spirit and a never-say-die attitude. The fans, who have stood by the team through thick and thin, will be looking for a response from their beloved club, as they continue to dream of glory in the Champions League.
Canned soup, or carton soup, is straight-up taken for granted. Packaged soup is the most ordinary of foods, lining the shelves of every supermarket and so small, inexpensive, and easy to ship and stock that it's found in plenty of drug, convenience, and big-box stores, too. But canned and boxed soup is really a marvel of ingenuity and a relatively modern invention; the process started to get perfected in only the 19th century. The techniques by which soup is placed into and stored in cans and packages without refrigeration for months or even years were revolutionary, making it easier to preserve food and feed millions of people around the world. In the 20th and 21st century, processed soup is still big business, and most anyone can find a variety of soup at their local supermarket to provide heat, nourishment, and nutrition. It's such big business that it's a cutthroat industry. The major soup manufacturers and store brand providers routinely do away with underperforming varieties to make way for new ones or just to avoid losing money. The loser in this situation: the loyal customers who very much enjoyed and appreciated those soups that disappeared. Here are all the most sorely missed soups once found in grocery stores around the United States, but not anymore and likely never again. Campbell's Fresh-Brewed Soup In the 2010s, the hottest kitchen appliance in years was the Keurig single-serving coffee maker. With the aid of specially-made and approved K-Cups, the machine brewed a supposedly perfect cup of coffee (or tea, or hot chocolate) one at a time, individually. In 2015, got in on the burgeoning K-Cup market while also helping Keurig market its brewers as useful for more than just beverages. The product: Fresh-Brewed Soup. It came in two varieties: Homestyle Chicken Broth & Noodle, and Southwest Style Chicken Broth & Noodle. It was even pitched as a low-calorie item — because an individually-made serving of the K-Cup soup was much smaller than that offered by a traditional can of soup. It was arguably needlessly complicated, or at least more unnecessarily involved than dumping a can of soup and some water into a pot. Customers were expected to extract from a box of Campbell's Fresh-Brewed Soup a noodle pocket and a K-Cup full of dried broth. To make hot soup, one would empty the noodle and ingredients pack into a large cup and allow it to catch the runoff of sending the broth pod through the Keurig. While one can , not very many customers want to use their coffee makers for soup, and Campbell's got rid of Fresh-Brewed Soup less than a year after its launch, in 2016. Many Campbell's Chunky Soups Soup, particularly canned soup prepared as directed, is almost categorically broth-heavy and light on ingredients, and in the 1960s Campbell's tried to reinvent the convenience food as a thick, calorically significant meal choice with Campbell's Stout Hearted Soups. The idea wasn't immediately successful, but it took off when it was rebranded as Campbell's Chunky in 1970, promoted with the TV ad tagline, "It's so chunky you'll be tempted to eat it with a fork." Packed into extra-big cans to hold the soups made with large meat chunks and big portions of vegetables, the line sold particularly well in the 1990s after Campbell's started hiring NFL players to star in commercials for Chunky Soup, branding it, "The soup that eats like a meal." Numerous individual varieties of Chunky Soup have come and gone over the past 50-plus years. The original four flavors have all since been retired: Chunky Beef, Chunky Vegetable, Chunky Turkey, and Chunky Chicken. In the 2010s, Campbell's aggressively added new styles to the line and made space for them on the production line and on store shelves by getting rid of older flavors that didn't sell as well as they used to. In came Spicy Nashville-Style Hot Chicken and Texas-Style BBQ Burger, and out went Philly-Style Cheesesteak, and then Meatball Bustin' Sausage and Rigatoni. One of the longest-available Chunky Soups finally disappeared in 2023: Chunky Chicken Mushroom Chowder, part of the line since the mid-1970s. Dinty Moore Meatball Stew page. The name brand of budget canned stews and soups isn't a real person, but the name of a man who ran a diner in the early 20th century comic strip "Bringing Up Father," who served up corned beef and beef stew to the main character Jiggs. The strip was so popular that a chain of real-life Dinty Moore restaurants opened in New York City, and in 1935 Hormel skirted copyright laws and launched a line of canned goods under the same name. "Bringing Up Father" kept running until 2000, but by then Dinty Moore soups had long since surpassed the comic in popularity and name recognition. As of 2024, Dinty Moore Beef Stew and Chicken & Dumplings remain in production. Another, soupier style sold in a similar red-and-white can as its brand-mates, Dinty Moore Meatball Stew, was available for decades. It was more or less the regular Dinty Moore Beef Stew, with soft potatoes, peas, and carrots in a brown broth, but with processed balls of ground meat used as the protein instead of pieces of whole beef. Hormel never found a significant audience for the Meatball Stew, and it stopped making it sometime after 2010. About half of the entire Progresso soup line Progresso is a company that isn't afraid to evolve. Starting out in Italy in the 19th century, Progresso canned Italian foods in the U.S. in the early 20th century and moved into soups by the 1940s, the first to pack split pea, lentil, and minestrone into metal cylinders. Pillsbury bought Progresso in 1969 and sold it to General Mills in 2001, by which point it was known as one of the most productive and familiar soup brands in the U.S. By 2020, Progresso was regularly manufacturing and distributing around 90 different kinds of canned soup, which company leaders decided was far too many. In the early weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic, and as customers' shopping and eating habits rapidly changed, General Mills executives opted to immediately end production on 40 of the soups it identified as its poorest sellers. Gone immediately, and probably forever, in the name of cost-cutting and allocating resources to make the flavors customers really did want: Chicken and Orzo with Lemon, several versions of chicken noodle soup, Chicken Cheese Enchilada, and Green Pea. Campbell's Pepper Pot Not as popular or as well-known among canned soup buyers as it once was, Pepper Pot was first sold in the vast Campbell's line in 1899. A spicy melange more like a stew than a soup, Pepper Pot was hot because of the inclusion of jalapeño peppers and red pepper flakes in the modern recipe, along with plenty of potatoes, onions, carrots, bacon, and beef tripe. Similar to any number of Campbell's beef-and-vegetable soups, Pepper Pot was different in that it was based on a specific, traditional recipe. That stew was a regional Philadelphia favorite where it took hold after being introduced by immigrants from the Caribbean and West Africa centuries ago. Never reaching the ubiquity or sales of its other soups like Tomato or Chicken Noodle, Campbell's nevertheless kept Pepper Pot soup in production for well over 100 years. That product became one of the few mass-produced Caribbean foods in the United States. Demand for the item dwindled over the decades and by the 21st century it was such a low-seller that Campbell's decided to stop making and distributing it in 2011. Wolfgang Puck Organic Free Range Chicken Noodle Soup One of the first modern-day celebrity chefs, Wolfgang Puck found fame by helping to create fusion cuisine (melding old-fashioned French styles with West Coast and Asian elements) and to popularize California cuisine. His name carried a certain level of quality and expertise, and from 1997 on, it graced a line of canned soups produced by Country Gourmet Foods. An innovator in organic mass-produced products, Wolfgang Puck Organic Free Range Chicken Noodle , became one of the line's top sellers, and within a decade on supermarket shelves, it propelled overall sales of $22 million. In 2008, the household name in canned soup, Campbell's, purchased the Wolfgang Puck soup portfolio from Country Gourmet, as well as the right to license the celebrated chef's image and name on soup and soup-adjacent items. Instead, somewhere along the way, Campbell's shut down the entire Wolfgang Puck soup brand. As of 2024, it doesn't list any Wolfgang Puck soups on its website, and they aren't stocked by major retailers like Amazon and Walmart. Campbell's Scotch Broth If a broth is a hot, salty, and savory liquid with no solid ingredients, then Scotch Broth isn't a broth. Falling somewhere in between a soup and a stew in terms of heartiness, Campbell's produced its own take on a dish dating back to 18th century Scotland sometimes known as Scotch barley broth. Traditionally made with beef or mutton, along with barley, peas, onions, and root vegetables, Campbell's version utilized lamb (similar to mutton), as well as barley and finely cubed potatoes and carrots all set inside of a mutton-based broth. Scotch Broth was a niche item, as hinted by the extra "Special Selections" golden banner slapped onto the labels of the stuff produced in the 2010s. Around 2011, Campbell's stopped making, canning, and distributing Scotch Broth for the U.S. market. The company never publicly or widely confirmed that Scotch Broth was no longer in production. In 2023, a Campbell's customer looking for answers directly asked the soup company's customer service account on X, formerly known as Twitter. "This product has been discontinued. We don't like to discontinue items that may be a staple in your home," the Campbell's representative explained. "We sometimes discontinue certain items so we can focus our efforts on upcoming offerings." Trader Joe's Organic Butternut Squash Soup Autumn is about , and it's easy to celebrate at Trader Joe's. Along with perennial private label favorites like Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese, Pumpkin Butternut Squash Bisque, and Butternut Squash Italian Lasagna, customers could almost always find many cartons of its Organic Butternut Squash Soup in the canned and packaged soup aisle. A for some shoppers, the soup was smooth and creamy, more like a bisque than a soup and tasted like liquified butternut squash, all tangy and nutty. It was convenient, too: Diners simply poured out a portion into a bowl or pot and then heated it up and then refrigerated any leftovers in the carton it came in. And yet by 2023, the Trader Joe's Organic Butternut Squash Soup started to disappear from stores nationwide, never to be restocked. Outsider company Pacific Foods is reportedly the supplier and manufacturer for many Trader Joe's soups, and a very similar organic butternut squash variety is distributed to major grocery outlets. But as for a Trader Joe's-branded and sold organic butternut squash soup, that simply doesn't exist anymore. Trader Joe's Cioppino Seafood Stew is a classic of American seafood based cuisine. In the 1850s, Italian-American fishermen took whatever they couldn't sell of their daily haul, cut it up, and mixed it up with wine, garlic, onions, herbs, and tomatoes to create the hearty, varied seafood stew that takes its name from an Italian word that means "chopped" or "torn." A food-waste averse dish that's easily amenable but always packing the same Italian-inspired flavors and seafood heft, cioppino became a standard item at Italian and seafood restaurants around the country, and Trader Joe's for many years sold a frozen make-your-own cioppino kit that was as affordably priced as it was tasty. A big bag of the heat-and-serve soup sold for just under $6, unbeatable for all that shrimp, cod, clams, and mussels. In 2022, Trader Joe's confirmed that the noted absence of its store-brand Cioppino Seafood Stew could be attributed to how the company had discontinued the item. Two different Trader Joe's Gazpacho products Through a program of house-branding and countless unique and inventive products marketed through fun in-store signage and its "Fearless Flyer" newsletter, Trader Joe's can easily build fervor for a new item that smoothes out into a loyal following. The funky, small-supermarket chain regularly rolls out so many new products that it has to get rid of old ones at just as rapid a clip, and that can even include items that it has stocked for years. By the mid-2010s, plastic tubs full of Trader Joe's version of gazpacho were a staple. Sold refrigerated and meant to be sold that way, it was a blend of tomatoes, citrus juice, garlic, peppers, and vinegar, based on the Andalusian classic chilled summer soup. That soup didn't quite sell enough units for Trader Joe's to justify keeping it around, so it eliminated the original Gazpacho from its production lines and introduced Roasted Tomatillo Gazpacho. That didn't perform much better for the grocery store, and that one is currently no longer available from Trader Joe's either. Campbell's Green Pea Soup Pea soup is such a simple dish that it's not surprising it's ancient, with records of it being consumed in ancient Greece and Rome as far back as 500 B.C. Most modern versions are based on the one brought to the U.S. by French-Canadian mill-workers in the 19th century, including Campbell's Green Pea. That long available canned soup was a basic recipe and mild in flavor, combining split peas, water, butter, sugar, flour, and extracts of onion and celery. Campbell's kept selling enough of the stuff well into the 21st century, favored by vegetarians because it was one of the few mass-market pea soups that didn't also include pieces of ham. And then Campbell's caught up with the industry standard. It introduced a new flavor of condensed soup in its iconic red-and-white cans: Split Pea, Ham, and Bacon. That seemed to push Green Pea out of production. At least when Campbell's discontinued its original formulation Green Pea soup, it recommended an alternative for customers. Campbell's Canadian branch oversees Habitant, which makes an old-fashioned French-Canadian-style pea soup, closer in style to the company's now disappeared Green Pea flavor. RecommendedBy Tobias Alando Trade has been a cornerstone of human civilization, beginning with the ancient barter system and evolving into today’s complex international agreements. In the earliest days, barter trade, a system where people directly exchanged goods without a standard currency, was essential for survival, yet it had limitations. Disparities in value, seasonal shortages, and the challenge of matching each other’s needs fairly, often led to conflicts and stalled exchanges. Such misalignments in wants and resources made transactions cumbersome and hindered economic growth. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp Over time, these inefficiencies drove societies to adopt currency, which streamlined trade and gave value a more universal measure. However, as trade grew beyond local communities and regions, new challenges arose, demanding structure and predictability in cross-border exchanges. This paved the way for trade agreements, which have become the foundation of international commerce today. Designed to reduce barriers like tariffs and quotas, these agreements enable smoother, fairer exchanges between nations, fostering both bilateral and multilateral relationships. Where barter was once limited to immediate needs and resources, modern trade agreements now support an interconnected global economy, encouraging growth, innovation, and mutual prosperity. One such agreement that has been pivotal in shaping trade dynamics is the Kenya-EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) that is designed to create a free trade area between the EU and Kenya. Its primary objectives include promoting sustainable development, ensuring economic stability, and enhancing trade between EU and Kenya. By eliminating tariffs and quotas on goods, the EPA seeks to provide Kenyan products with greater access to EU markets by enhancing export opportunities. The goals of the EPA extend beyond mere tariff reductions; they also aim to enhance economic cooperation and address various trade-related issues such as supply-side constraints including compliance with Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) standards and enhancing capacity to implement trade facilitation measures. For Kenya, this means not only the potential for increased exports but also the ability to attract foreign investment, which is crucial for economic growth. Local manufacturers can plug into this framework by leveraging the advantages offered through the EPA, such as accessing European markets without facing prohibitive tariffs. Trade between Kenya and the EU has not been entirely balanced. According to International Trade Centre (ITC), Kenya Exported products worth $1.1 billion to the EU while importing $1.7 billion, representing a slight trade imbalance of $0.6 billion in favor of EU in 2022. To scale up trade and bridge this imbalance, Kenyan industries must focus on manufacturing high-quality value – added products, moving beyond the agriculturally based products and raw materials. The EU market, with its diverse consumer base, presents opportunities for Kenyan products, including textiles, processed foods, and manufactured goods. By investing in capacity building and technology, local manufacturers can create high-quality products that meet EU standards. As Kenya awaits the renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) by United States of America, there is an opportunity to further enhance our trade relations with the EU. By aligning its manufacturing strategies with the requirements of EU, Kenya can ensure that its products meet the necessary quality and regulatory standards, thus enhancing its competitiveness on the global stage. However, the journey towards seamless trading between Kenya and the EU is not without its challenges. A myriad of issues continue to hinder trade at national level, including competitiveness, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of access to finance for local manufacturers. To foster a conducive trading environment, both governments must engage in dialogue to address these barriers. Initiatives that simplify customs procedures, enhance transport networks, and financial support to local manufacturers will be crucial in bolstering trade for both parties. Furthermore, creating awareness and providing training for local businesses on how to navigate international trade can empower them to tap into opportunities offered by the Kenya EU – EPA agreement. Kenya must also protect its market from an influx of low-quality imports that could undercut local industries. By enforcing quality standards, the government can prevent the local market from becoming a dumping ground, ensuring that domestic products remain competitive both at home and abroad. Kenya possesses the resources and ambition to make export-led growth a reality. Tackling logistical hurdles, enhancing industry skills, and promoting a robust national brand will position Kenya as a global trade leader. The Made in Kenya label, symbolizing quality, innovation, and dependability can become a hallmark of Kenya’s competitive economy. For Kenyan industries to excel internationally, they must be agile, resilient, and competitive. Stable and predictable tax policies, affordable access to credit, and targeted skill development initiatives can also provide local industries with the boost they need to perform well internationally. By investing in these areas, Kenya can create a business environment that enables its products to compete with those from other emerging and established economies. The result is not just an increase in exports, but a strengthening of Kenya’s global brand – a shift from traditional exports like tea and coffee to a more diversified export portfolio. Now is the time for Kenya to expand its export portfolio and elevate the ‘Made in Kenya’ label as a symbol of innovation and quality. By embracing this vision, Kenya can transform trade into a pathway to prosperity for all its citizens, fostering a future where exports are not merely transactions, but reflections of a thriving, globally respected economy. The writer is the Ag. Chief Executive of Kenya Association of Manufacturers and can be reached at ceo@kam.co.ke . See author's posts