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Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) promises to revolutionise stock management, but few applications exist so far. Now, European researchers are perfecting a platform to unlock the potential of RFID.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) promises to revolutionise retailing through advanced stock management, sophisticated promotions and supply chain optimisation. But cost-effective solutions have proved elusive because serious technical and business hurdles exist. Few efforts have addressed the problems in a consistent way.

The EU-funded SMART project is putting the finishing touches to a complete RFID application platform that addresses the technical problems, and presents options for an integrated solution to the business issues.

In some ways, RFID is like an electronic barcode. It can be read at a distance using an RFID reader, which means that people do not need to scan it manually. As goods enter a warehouse they can be automatically logged into the inventory.

Retailing revolution
RFID reduces the risk of human error, offers instant stock levels and can be tied to back-end systems, initiating orders automatically when stock starts to run low. It is a very simple principle, but the potential applications could revolutionise retailing.

For example, if a shelf needs refilling, the system can alert management automatically. If a product is reaching its sell-by date, RFID could notify retailers to discount the product.

“It means they have a better chance of selling stock, rather than dumping it, so the store runs more efficiently and more profitably,” explains Katerina Pramatari, scientific coordinator of the SMART project.

Even more advanced applications can be put in place. If one product is selling well at store A, but selling badly at store B, RFID-powered inventory systems could initiate the transfer of the product from one store to another.

Sophisticated applications, and serious challenges
These are just the initial plans, and more sophisticated applications could emerge over time. For example, a reader could scan a customer’s entire basket, and then present the total, vastly increasing speed and cutting costs at the checkout.

The promise of RFID is enough to make retailers drool, but serious obstacles exist. For a start, while RFID tags are relatively cheap – they can cost as little as 10 cents – putting them on every product quickly becomes very expensive. Currently, RFID tags in retailing are mainly used on pallets. There is also a question over who bears the cost, the retailer or the supplier.

The research faced a lot of technical challenges, according to Pramatari. “Getting the right RFID tag to ensure reliability and readability was an important decision. In the end, we chose Generation 2 tags because they are cheaper and can be read more reliably from a greater distance,” she explains.

Given that these chips will be attached to every packet, cost and reliability are important factors, especially for smaller businesses. The SMART team also had to adapt the technology for use with meat products and in cold storage.

The RFID installation, itself, took significant research time. “We had to ensure that we got the greatest range from the RFID readers for all the applications we wanted to test, using the fewest possible number of readers. Once we started to install the RFID tracking onsite we discovered we had to adjust our layouts to the specific conditions in each store,” explains Pramatari.

“Developing back-office functions was another technical challenge, as was developing web services so that the retailer could automatically communicate stock levels, for example, to the supplier. That, of course, required discovery services, which would ‘discover’ the appropriate retailer for a given piece of stock.”

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All World Sourcing, Inc. (AWS), the leading global marketplace that proactively matches B2B buyers and suppliers of small and medium-sized businesses, announced today that it will pay a 3% rebate (up to $500) to buyers for their first Buy Request that is completed by a supplier through our website. AWS helps small and medium-sized businesses to source from the best supplier. Our online sourcing platform allows buyers to submit a Buy Request, select the suppliers that you want to bid on your request, and then sit back and pick the best offer! With over 9,400 pre-qualified suppliers from around the world, you will get the best bids in terms of price and quality.

This is a great opportunity to try our sourcing services and save up to $500!

Fremont, CA (PRWEB) July 16, 2008 -- All World Sourcing, Inc. (AWS), the leading global marketplace that proactively matches B2B buyers and suppliers of small and medium-sized businesses, announced today that it will pay a 3% rebate (up to $500) to buyers for their first Buy Request that is completed by a supplier through our website.

"This is a great opportunity to try our sourcing services and save up to $500!" says Tony O'Yang, founder of AWS. "As our sourcing services are free to buyers, now there is even more reason to give us a try for all of your sourcing needs. Think of us as your personal sourcing agent that not only works for free, but even pays you when you finalize a purchase through us. Now that's compelling!"

AWS helps small and medium-sized businesses to source from the best supplier. Our online sourcing platform allows buyers to submit a Buy Request, select the suppliers that you want to bid on your request, and then sit back and pick the best offer! With over 9,400 pre-qualified suppliers from around the world, you will get the best bids in terms of price and quality.

Passive, browse-oriented sites such as Alibaba.com merely allow buyers and sellers to post their inquiries and leave it to chance that buyers and sellers will find each other after sorting through thousands of "buy" and "sell" leads. All World Sourcing proactively works with pre-qualified suppliers to bid on a buyer's request, much like how a personal sourcing agent would. The advantage is shorter turnaround times, better bids, and ultimately, savings for the buyer!

For complete details, please visit All World Sourcing $500 Rebate.

About All World Sourcing, Inc.:
All World Sourcing, Inc. (AWS) is the leading global marketplace that proactively matches B2B buyers and suppliers of small and medium-sized businesses. Members list their Buy Requests for their business needs and receive bids from thousands of feedback-rated suppliers from industries such as Electronics and Electronic Components, Toys & Gifts, and Fashion & Apparel. Our mission is to create the most efficient B2B marketplace for global commerce. Our solution combines the advantages of a personalized sourcing consultant with the efficiency and scalability of a web-based company.

For more information, please visit www.AllWorldSourcing.com.

The firm did not immediately name a replacement, but industry insiders expect CEO Kay Krill will tap someone quickly to push forward with the retailer's turnaround efforts.

A key manager at troubled specialty retailer Ann Taylor Stores Corp. has resigned. Anthony Romano vacated his post as chief supply chain officer to pursue other interests, the company announced Tuesday.

Although the firm did not immediately name a replacement, industry insiders expect Ann Taylor Chief Kay Krill to tap someone quickly, as Mr. Romano’s successor will be vital to the company’s turnaround progress.

The success of a supply chain manager can make or break a retailer these days. As consumers have begun demanding faster fashion and higher quality, supply chain managers must work harder than ever to protect their bottom lines, even as gasoline prices and global quotas raise costs.

“Supply chain management is a critical support,” said Jacqui Marcus, vice president of Karen Harvey Consulting Group, an executive search firm that specializes in retail. “The candidates to lead this function need to have diversified experience and understanding of these complexities.”

Ann Taylor, which operates both an eponymous chain and a younger-skewing chain called Loft, has struggled with its supply chain in recent years. At times, it has missed key fashion trends by featuring too little color or too few dresses, and the company has yet to get both of its chains on track at the same time.

Separately Tuesday, Ann Taylor also expanded the duties of two executives. Brian Lynch, president of the company’s outlet division, will take over the firm’s e-commerce business and corporate real estate under the title of president of corporate operations. He already oversaw corporate store operations. Separately, Michael Nicholson, currently an executive vice president and chief financial officer, will start managing the company’s information technology and global procurement duties.

“I am very pleased to acknowledge the outstanding leadership that Brian and Mike have demonstrated, as the business evolves and we position the company for future growth,” Ms. Krill noted in a statement.

Earlier this year, Ann Taylor laid off 180 employees at its headquarters and announced plans to shutter nearly 120 stores to cut costs. Last year, the company reported earnings of $1.55 per share on sales of $2.4 billion.

The company’s shares gained 36 cents, or 1.7%, to close the day at $21.58.

Taipei, July 14, 2008 (CENS)--Taiwan`s supply chain of Intel Centrino II platform has been speeding up the shipments since the world`s No.1 chipmaker recently announced it would make synchronous rollout of the next-generation computer platform worldwide tomorrow.

Intel has contracted Advanced Semiconductor Engineering (ASE) Inc. and Siliconware Precision Industry Co., Ltd. to package and test chips; Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) to make networking-communication chips; Universal Scientific Industrial Co., Ltd., and GemTek Technology Co., Ltd. to supply wireless modules; and Nanya PCB Corp. to supply flip-chip substrate.

Intel originally planned to unveil the platform, dubbed as Montevina, early last month. But some technical problems in graphics core and wireless network have delayed the scheduled introduction. The delay has restrained procurement sentiment in PC market.

People familiar with Intel`s plan pointed out that although Intel has postponed the rollout date, the new platform is estimated to penetrate into 30-40% of notebook computers by the end of this quarter and into 50-60% of the computers in the Christmas shopping season.

Nanya`s production of the substrates for chips used in the platform is running at full capacity, raising the expectation that the company`s revenue for the third quarter will be 10-15% more than the second quarter.

ASE and Siliconware are contracted to package the 65nm wireless chips for the platform with system-in-package (SiP) technology.

Source by news.cens.com

Asia’s first ethical supply chain summit will be held in Hong Kong on October 29-31 2008.

It will showcase the latest best practices of global corporations in establishing ethical supply chain practices in Asia.

Representatives from across industry will highlight how they are working with environmental and labour regulations to ensure ethical supply chain management.

Confirmed speakers include Patrick Kwan, regional manager, supplier social responsibility, Starbucks; Kate Larsen CSR manager Asia, Burberry; William Lee, director, social responsibility, GAP; Brill Lacno, regional manager, social and environmental sustainability, Levi Strauss; Reiner Hengstmann, global head, social & environment supply chain, PUMA; Stefan Hoffmann-Kuhnt, regional compliance manager, Siemens China; Jeremy Prepscius, Asia director, Business for Social Responsibility; and Edward Hanrahan, executive director, Climate Care, among others.

There will be pre-conference practical workshops on complying with the new Labor Contract Law & Crisis Management, as well as case studies from global companies establishing ethical supply chain best practices across Asia.

For more information go to http://www.ethicalsupply.com/en/home.html

This programme enables participants to align typical business imperatives that relate to supply chain management with the total supply chain process. The core focus is on leading-edge manufacturing and operations concepts, with particular attention to process improvement - focusing specifically on the South African context.

Participants will learn the relevant techniques needed to move from a transaction-based approach to a customer value-based model in order to supply customers with all the information needed to make decisions.

The programme is aimed at managers and others who are challenged with the intricacies of the supply chain and logistics of their companies and who wish to improve decision-making in these areas.

Some of the areas that will be covered during the programme include:

• increasing customer service excellence
  
• market research
  
• inventory planning and control
  
• materials requirement planning
  
• just-in-time (JIT)

Successful participants will be equipped to illustrate practically how the needs of a target market can be integrated into the supply chain and delivery sequence of a company.

They will also be able to identify and resolve issues regarding inventory and to apply concepts used in the planning and controlling of resources.

The course should give participants an understanding of the JIT planning and control techniques, enable them to develop the customer/supplier relationship to its full potential, to make informed decisions with regard to warehousing practices and conduct a logistics audit in their organisation.

For more information contact Charmaine Garcia on +27 (0) 21 918 4488 or send e-mail to charmaine.garcia@usb-ed.com.

Business to business e-commerce is on the rise! Worldwide B2B e-commerce revenues are estimated to reach around US$ 2 trillion in 2004. This is a significant leap from last year's US$ 1.4 trillion. However, according to a recent survey, although, more than 70% of companies have already used Internet as a purchasing channel, a mere ten percent of their overall spending is directed via the Internet! Contrary to popular believe, this means, B2B e-commerce has still large potential to grow Internet has the capacity of changing the conventional way of doing business.

Today, you can not only buy and sell your products and services on the Internet, you can, virtually, shift all your business processes to online solutions as well. If you take advantages of new Internet based technologies, the outcome would be tremendously beneficial to your business. How to do this without spending a fortune and not putting a huge pressure on scarce corporate resources? The possible answer could be B2B exchanges! A B2B exchange is an online marketplace, where buyers, sellers and intermediaries form communities, exchange views, offer products and services, and conduct business transactions By becoming a member of a B2B exchange you can benefit in both cost-saving and revenue increase - two primary requirements of productivity increase.business forum,trade forum,business opportunity,Business China,Business India,Brazil business3t)LNew sales channel By becoming a member of a B2B exchange, you open a low cost, highly functional and easy-to-use sales channel for your company.

You expose your company to a new targeted audience that otherwise would have been untapped. Prospective customers can buy products and services from you, using various venues and features of the B2B exchange, where you are a member. business forum,trade forum,business opportunity,Business China,Business India,Brazil business

Marketplace: All B2B exchanges include a marketplace, where suppliers can post sales offer of their products and services. Buyers, looking for specific products, can easily find best suppliers that suit them from the marketplace. A populated marketplace can easily become a good sales channel for a supplier.

Electronic catalog: As a member of the B2B exchange, you are allowed to add all your products or services to the consolidated online repository of the exchange. Adding your products to the repository helps to create online standardize electronic version of your product specification - if you don't have that before - and use the same catalog with other electronic sales systems - even with other B2B exchanges using XML interface.forum. You can publish sales offer of your entire catalog to the marketplace, eliminating a need for other web presence.

You can add products or services to the repository one by one or you can use XML interface to upload your whole electronic catalog Web Store: Some B2B exchanges allow you to convert or integrate your website to their exchange. This helps you to handle sales conveniently from your website and the marketplace of the exchange seamlessly. You can make a web store from scratch with the help of integrated website builder of the B2B exchange as well.

Auctions: One of the great features of many B2B exchange is their auction systems. As we all know from the immense success of Ebay, auctioning is a great way of selling products online. Some exchanges boast reverse auction system, where suppliers bid for a deal posted by a buyer.business forum,trade forum,business opportunity,Business China,Business India,Brazil business As a supplier, you can participate in those tenders without any extra cost involved.

Low customer acquisition costforum. Your mere presence in the B2B exchange might bring you new customers! Since the buyers come to the exchange themselves; your cost of getting customers through this channel is relatively low in comparison to other traditional channels. You can even increase your visibility by advertising in the key places of the exchange, where your prospective buyers frequently visit. Being highly targeted, these ads produce incredible results.business forum,trade forum,business opportunity,Business China,Business India,Brazil business9 Improve customer service business forum,trade forum,business opportunity,Business China,Business India,Brazil Ability to have constant interaction through the B2B exchange allows you to serve your customers better. You can track the whole ordering process from payment to delivery and bring greater efficiency in customer service.

The integrated functions of an exchange such as sales management, internal messaging service, lead management, etc. also help you managing customers service process effectively.business forum,trade forum,business opportunity,Business China,Business India,Brazil business When needed, you can instantly update your catalog and inform customers about changes.

Whether you are launching a new product or having a web seminar, through the B2B exchange you can share the information more efficiently. Some B2B Exchanges use sophisticated knowledge management systems to create, capture, reprocess and reutilize information intended for specific group of audience. These contents or information can be displayed on demand or in time to a member - when needed. Business processes management

One of the primary objectives of using B2B exchanges for you should be their ability to handle, run and administer various business processes. These solutions assist you to streamline your business, reduce overhead costs and reduce documentary errors. business forum,trade forum,business opportunity,Business China,Business India,Brazil business

Using technologies in a bid to streamline business processes like supply chain is nothing new. Companies have been using various solutions to support product development, customer service, procurement and other integral processes for many years. Before the Internet era, many companies have invested enormous amount of money in infrastructure building to automate supply chain process. Today, thanks to the Internet, even small companies have opportunity to use highly sophisticated supply chain solutions for a small cost. Many B2B exchanges, such as Rusbiz.com, allow small companies to use supply chain management solution for a small fee. The major benefits of using supply chain solutions include.

Under the patronage of His Excellency Mr. Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Attiyah, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy and Industry, State of Qatar, His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Saleh Al Sada, Qatari Minister of State for Energy and Industry Affairs launched the 1^st GCC-EU Forum in Barcelona, Spain, on Thursday, 3rd July, 2008. The forum was organized by the Gulf Organization for Industrial Consulting (GOIC) in cooperation with Barcelona Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Navigation (BCCIN), and Enterprise Europe Network, with a strategic partnership with Qatar Petroleum.

The main objective of the two-day Forum is to promote industrial cooperation as well as subcontracting & partnership activities between GCC member states and the European Union. The Forum specifically focused on meeting the objective of marketing GCC subcontracting capabilities and promoting technology transfer and joint venture interests from the EU region.

Activities of the forum started on Thursday with a welcome speech by H.E. Mr. Miquel Valls, President of Barcelona Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Navigation; in which he emphasized the great business opportunities available for both regions, in sectors such as energy, chemical and petrochemical industries, renewable energy, raw materials, and plastics industries, further to gas and oil. Mr. Valls also talked about the size of trade between both Spain and GCC member states in 2007, where Spanish imports from the GCC member states reached some Euro 281 billion, and of these 28% were in Catalonia. In terms of exports, Spain exported to GCC member states in these sectors products worth Euro 182 billion. Finally, Mr. Vallas assured the efforts exerted to boost industrial cooperation and subcontracting with Catalan and European companies, promote technology transfer and enhance joint business projects.

The second speech was delivered by H.E. Dr. Mohamed Saleh Al Sada, in which H.E emphasized the importance of the forum in enhancing industrial cooperation between the two regions. Dr. Al Sada also stressed the importance of strengthening SMEs and increasing their leveraging opportunities in the global network of production (GNP) through boosting the GCC- EU industrial cooperation. "Available opportunities are there for our two regions in terms of cooperation and partnership; EU owns the technologies and the capability of supplying equipment and know-how; while our region has got the national resources, infrastructure and the adequate environment for investment", said Dr. Al Sada in his speech in the Opening Session.

In the same session, VIP speakers from the two regions delivered their speeches in the occasion including H.E. Eng. Sultan Bin Saeed Al-Mansouri, Minister of Economy, UAE; Dr. Ahmed Khalil Al Mutawa, Secretary General, GOIC; H.E Mr. Samuel Furfari, Deputy Head of Unit Renewable Energy at the Directorate General for Energy and Transport, European Commission; and H.E. Mr. Joseph Huguet, Minister for Innovation, University and Industry, Catalonia.

Thursday agenda included two work sessions; the first discussed Economic Relations between the Gulf Countries and the EU: Present Status and Future Prospects. Participants in this session tackled important topics relating to the Development of Economic relations between the Gulf countries and the EU; Future prospects for the Gulf countries and Arab Economic relations and main potential growth areas; A survey of policies and actions needed to promote the development of the economy; and finally Economic linearization and reform program in the Gulf countries and its social and economic reflections.

On its turn, the second session tackled Industrial Subcontracting where GCC and EU Subcontracting capabilities and interest in the fields of Petrochemicals, Desalination, Metalworking, Plastics, Rubber and Engineering were thoroughly illustrated.

In the second day of the forum, two other sessions were conducted. In the first session titled Investment Opportunities, Legal and Financial; many concerns were discussed covering Development within the Gulf Economy and its Investment Opportunities; the Legal Framework for doing business in the Gulf: Commercial and investment laws, and Foreign investment incentives; the Role of the private sector as a pioneer for the development of trade and investment between the two regions; and Investment opportunities in GCC and EU. The second session in Friday handled the matter of Future in Energy: Buyers and Suppliers Perspectives.

Within the same context, Business to Business (B2B) Meetings were conducted throughout the two days of the forum, with the participation of some 193 companies of different scales, further to projects' promoters, policy makers, potential investors, technology holders, equipment suppliers, and investors from both regions. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) mainly from Europe presented their subcontracting capabilities; while major companies from the Gulf including Qatar Petroleum and Qatar Holding discussed their demands of manufacturing supplies including specifications, values and quantities. Through those meetings, many arrangements occurred for matchmaking between businesses from both regions at different levels such as joint ventures, alliances, subcontracting and other forms of cooperation. The B2B meetings received considerable attention as they created a good investment and cooperation environment for the participating companies, whether SMEs or large scale companies from both regions.

On the sidelines of the conference, Dr. Al Sada conducted two individual meetings with each of H.E. Jose Montilla, Prime Minister of Catalonia; and H.E. Mr. Joseph Huguet, Minister for Innovation, University and Industry, Catalonia, in which they discussed future cooperation prospects between Qatar and Catalonia.

In addition, a meeting was conducted between Dr. Ahmed Khalil Al Mutawa, Secretary General, GOIC and Mr. Jose Antonio Quiroga Pineyero, Vice President of Eurochambers in which both parties discussed means of cooperation in terms of technical assistance, training and capacity development and industrial information interchange between both parties through GOIC's Industrial Market Intelligence Portal (IMI). In this meeting also, it was agreed to conduct the 2nd GCC-EU Industrial Forum in 2009 in one of GCC member states. H.E. Abdulrahim Naqi, Secretary General of the Federation of GCC Chambers, and H.E. Dr. Khalid Al-Hajiri, General Manager of Qatar Chamber of Commerce & Industry, attended the meeting.

On another development, the organizing parties of the 1st GCC-EU Industrial Forum held a press conference on Wednesday to highlight its theme and expectations, with the presence of media representatives from both regions. Participants in the subject conference were each of H.E. Dr. Mohammed Saleh Al-Sada, Minister of State for Energy & Industry Affairs, Qatar, H.E. Eng. Sultan Bin Saeed Al-Mansouri, Minister of Economy, UAE, H.E. Dr. Lulwa A. Al Misned, Assistant Secretary General for Industrial Investment Promotion, GOIC, H.E. Mr. Mohammed Turki Al-Subai, Chief Executive Officer, Qatar Intermediate Industries Holding Co. "Qatar Holding", H.E. Mr. Miquel Valls, Presdient, BCCIN.

After the conference, a MOU was concluded between GOIC and BCCIN. The MOU provides for the creation of a
Subcontracting Centre based in Qatar, at the offices of GOIC. The center will work for companies in the Gulf to develop its trade relations with Catalonia and the European Union; and make information available through a specialized information center established for the purpose, with an expert from BCCIN, and structure and staff from GOIC.

It is worth mentioning that the forum was conducted with a strategic partnership with QP and sponsored by Qatar Holding, Ministry of Economy, UAE, Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation "KAHRAMAA", TradeArabia, and Al Jazeera Network.

It is scheduled that the GCC-EU Forum will be held once every year interchangeably between GCC and the EU under the patronage of VIPs from each region. Through this forum, attention will be directed towards updates, prospects and opportunities for industrial development and economic relationships, and exploring ways and means of promoting industry and fostering economic cooperation to pave the way for building strong relationship ties between the two regions.

It is worth indicating that the industrial output contribution to the GDP in GCC member states is some 10%, yet, it is strongly expanding in view of the exerted efforts to foster industrial development in the region; and it increased from Euro 28 billion in 2002 to approach the level of Euro 53 billion in 2006. Currently the GCC is set to invest more than Euro 760 billion by 2012 in the industrial sector, as industry is always viewed as the strategic option for the diversification of the economies base in GCC member states.

To end with, GOIC, founded in 1976, targets developing industries throughout GCC by means of providing, both the industrial and economic sectors, with distinctive knowledge, consultancy and technical services. GOIC's mandate is to promote the highest levels of industrial cooperation and collaboration, in both the public and private sectors, by providing a complete set of high-quality, specialized research, information and consultancy services relating to industrial and economic development. Being aware of the importance of spreading knowledge, and introducing latest technical updates in the world to the region, GOIC has conducted a number of leading conferences such as Knowledge-Based Industries and Nano Technology Conference, Industrialists Conference series, the international conference on Aid for Trade, not to mention all; further to a number of seminars, workshops, and continuously organized activities that target opening new horizons for industrialists and investors whether inside the region or foreign ones.

Source by arabianbusiness.com

Corporate Express Document & Print Management (CEDPM), a leading provider of document and print management, and business form, label, direct mail and fulfillment solutions, has entered into an enterprise license agreement with Four51, Inc. Four51 develops online business-to-business catalog technology that connects buyers, distributors and suppliers of indirect goods. Four51's commerce platform will help CEDPM to bring products to market faster and consolidate disparate online ordering systems, while continuing to provide interoperability with ERP and spend-management solutions, such as SAP and Ariba, used by Corporate Express' customers.

"We're excited to leverage Four51's online business-to-business catalog technology," commented Michael Bailey, Vice President, Information Services, Corporate Express Document & Print Management. "Our new strategic partnership will enable us to continue streamlining and optimizing our internal systems and processes, while at the same time providing a state-of-the-art e-commerce front end to our customers."

Corporate Express US Inc., part of the Dutch-based Corporate Express NV (NYSE: CXP), is a leading business-to-business supplier of office and computer supplies, office furniture, facility supplies, document and print management, imaging and computer graphic supplies, promotional products and other similar products.

Four51 is growing virally at the rate of 1,200 buyers per day. More than 27,000 businesses -- including half the Fortune 500 -- and one million users conduct commerce on the Four51 network. Founded in 1999, Four51 is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minn., and is the leading e-catalog technology in the indirect goods market.

About Four51

Four51 (www.four51.com) is automating the B2B e-catalog market using an open e-commerce platform that connects buyers, distributors and suppliers of indirect goods such as printed materials, promotional products and office supplies. Using Four51's internet catalog technology, sellers can target simple and complex B2B products to a specific buyer desktop while maintaining compliance with all corporate purchasing rules and security requirements. Further, Four51 can integrate with other relevant B2B technologies such as payment services and back-office systems. For suppliers and manufacturers, Four51's unique approach removes inefficiencies from order processing, manufacturing and go-to-market activities. Suppliers on the Four51 network gain instant, seamless access to thousands of distributors and more than one million buyer-users through a single online platform.

About Corporate Express Document & Print Management

Corporate Express Document & Print Management (CEDPM) is a leading provider of document and print management, and business form, label, direct mail and fulfillment solutions. Employing approximately 1,000 people in seven manufacturing plants and 50 sales offices nationwide, CEDPM is a business unit of Corporate Express US Inc.

Corporate Express provides customers with a single source of business products and services, so that they can focus their resources, energy and time on their core business. Corporate Express helps organizations to save time and maximize their productivity. Headquartered in the Netherlands, Corporate Express NV generated 2007 sales of EUR 5.6 billion. The company has a widespread global distribution network spanning North America, Europe, Asia and Australia, has close to 18,000 employees and has operations in 21 countries. Corporate Express is listed on Euronext Amsterdam (EURONEXT: CXP) and in New York (NYSE: CXP). For more information, please visit www.CorporateExpress.com.

China's most well-known B2B e-commerce portal, initiated a trade forum in Beijing to promote e-commerce for Chinese suppliers, sources reported. The forum, which started on Jun. 11, is part of Alibaba's efforts to support e-commerce startup, deployment and operation of local enterprises. Alibaba's online trade platform serves as the gateway

The US-Asia Industrial Trade Portal Worldwide Industrial Marketplace has launched a new program focusing on connecting North American manufacturers and exporters of industrial supplies, equipment and machinery with China-based buyers.

Shanghai, China, June 06, 2008 --(PR.com)-- Worldwide Industrial Marketplace, a division of the Industrial Leaders Group announced plans today to help US-based industrial suppliers develop trading partnerships with manufacturers, engineers and other industrial buyers in China utilizing its Web site at http://www.WorldwideIndustrialMarketplace.com. According to Michael Chin, spokesman for the company in Shanghai, Worldwide Industrial is the fastest growing B2B trade portal focusing exclusively on industrial and construction buyers and suppliers.

Worldwide Industrial enables qualified manufacturers, distributors, importers and exporters of industrial and construction products in the U.S. and China to post and explore offers free of charge at http://www.industrialsaver.com/classifieds/. "U.S. companies looking to expand in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Mainland China or any of the country's cities such as Shenzen, Beijing or Shanghai, will find numerous opportunities to develop trading relationships with importers and exporters all over the region," says Chin.

Chin said with the assistance of its partner ForeignTRADEX, Worldwide Industrial provides several trade reports to help connect American and Chinese manufacturers of industrial supplies, equipment and machinery. Including its recently revised US-China Industrial Trade Report at http://www.foreigntradeexchange.com/countries/china.html which was first published in 2003. The publication is updated annually and is free to download from the company's Web site.

China is well known as one of the world's major exporters but we need more American manufacturers and exporters need to realize as the country's infrastructure and industries continue to grow so does its appetite for industrial goods," says Conrad Bailey, Business Director of the Industrial Leaders Group. He added, U.S. companies involved in international trade or seeking to expand in Asia can use the resources of Worldwide Industrial and B2B international network to promote their products in China and all over Asia."

About Worldwide Industrial Marketplace

Worldwide Industrial Marketplace is a US-Asia and Middle East Industrial Directory and Marketplace dedicated in developing trading partnerships among manufacturers, exporters and importers of industrial products throughout the United States, Asia and the Middle East at http://www.WorldwideIndustrialMarketplace.com

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The Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair will be held from 11-15 September at the Challenger Hall exhibition center but the retailers can now meet the exhibitors also through online tools available at www.ospgemsjewelry.com.

The Bangkok fair’s B2B matching facility enables buyers to meet the right suppliers who can provide the products, services they need.

Buyers can find the companies they want to meet on the website, post which they can make an e-Appointment by registering at www.ospgemsjewelry.com to sit down face-to-face at the fair, look at physical samples, and visit their factories then talk about developing businesses together.

Buyers who used the business matching tools at the prior trade fair said they were interested in about 70% of the exhibitors that they met. After the fair they would contact these exhibitors further for placing orders, according to trade show officials.

BEIJING, eFuture Information Technology Inc. (Nasdaq: EFUT; "eFuture"), a leading provider of front-end supply chain management software and services in China, today announced its unaudited financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2008.

Financial Results Highlights for the First Quarter of 2008 -- Total revenue for the first quarter of 2008 was RMB14.0 million (US$2.0 million), an increase of 92.8% from the first quarter of 2007. -- Software revenue for the first quarter of 2008 was RMB7.6 million (US$1.1 million), an increase of 33.5% from the first quarter of 2007. -- Service fee income for the first quarter of 2008 was RMB5.0 million (US$0.7 million), an increase of 241.6% from the first quarter of 2007. -- Gross profit for the first quarter of 2008 was RMB4.7 million (US$0.7 million), an increase of 31.8% from the first quarter of 2007. Excluding amortization of acquired technology, gross profit for the first quarter of 2008 would have been RMB8.6 million (US$1.2 million), an increase of 130.9% from the first quarter of 2007. -- Gross margin for the first quarter of 2008 decreased to 33.6% from 49.2% in the first quarter of 2007. Excluding amortization of acquired technology, gross margin for the first quarter of 2008 would have been 61.2%, compared to 51.1% in the first quarter of 2007. -- Net loss for the first quarter of 2008 was RMB9.2 million (US$1.3 million), an increase of 658.2% over the first quarter of 2007.

"We are pleased to report strong top-line growth in a traditionally weak first fiscal quarter that includes the long Chinese New Year holiday and this year was marked by severe snow storms across large parts of China. With a strong start to 2008, we are optimistic about our prospects and our earnings per share for the full year," said Mr. Adam Yan, eFuture's chairman and chief executive officer. "In addition, a larger base of installed clients contributed to strong organic growth. Service revenue was up 241.6%, the strongest growth of any quarter in ten years, with software revenue growth remaining solid. Moreover, we have strengthened our position and significantly broadened our opportunity in the fast-growing retail market in China with the successful integration of our Guangzhou Royalstone acquisition. Looking forward to the remainder of 2008, we expect that our B2B services, including http://www.bfuture.com.cn and http://www.jindian.com.cn, will begin to contribute to our revenue and drive value for retailers and their suppliers."

First Quarter of 2008 Operational Highlights -- Sales contracts in the first quarter of 2008 increased 102.5% to RMB18.0 million (US$2.6 million) from RMB8.8 in the first quarter of 2007. -- Service sales contracts in first quarter of 2008 increased 662.8% to RMB8.6 million (US$1.2 million) from RMB1.13 million in the first quarter of 2007. -- Total new orders increased 350% to 117 orders from 26 in the first quarter of 2007.

"During the first quarter, we placed particular emphasis on integrating our acquisitions completed in 2007 into a single platform," Mr. Yan continued. "We worked to smoothly incorporate culture, strengthen back-office resource integration and improve processes to streamline internal operations and reduce software deployment costs. This organic growth strategy has translated into a 12% increase in gross margins, excluding amortization of acquired technology."

As part of its effort to streamline its operations to promote organic growth, the company organized its software business according to six vertical strategy business areas: small and medium business, key accounts, department stores and shopping malls, grocery and supermarkets, specialty stores and fast-moving consumer goods.

Financial Results for the First Quarter of 2008

Revenue

eFuture reported total revenue of RMB14.0 million (US$2.0 million) for the first quarter of 2008, a 92.8% increase from RMB7.3 million in the first quarter of 2007.

Software sales in the first quarter of 2008 increased 33.5% to RMB7.6 million (US$1.1 million) from RMB5.7 million in the first quarter of 2007. Software sales contributed 54.0% to total revenue in the first quarter of 2008, compared to 78.0% in the first quarter of 2007.

Hardware sales in the first quarter of 2008 increased 1020% to RMB1.4 million (US$0.2 million) from RMB0.1 million in the first quarter of 2007. Hardware sales contributed 10.1% to total revenue in the first quarter of 2008, compared to 1.7% in the first quarter of 2007.

Service fee income in the first quarter of 2008 increased 241.6% to RMB5.0 million (US$0.7 million) from RMB1.5 million in the first quarter of 2007. Service fee income contributed 36.0% to total revenue in the first quarter of 2008, compared to 20.3% in the first quarter of 2007. The increase was largely due to eFuture's policy to provide free maintenance for its products in the first year of operation, after which the company begins to charge maintenance and support fees.

Gross Margins

Gross profit for the first quarter of 2008 was RMB4.7 million (US$0.7 million), a 31.8% increase from RMB3.6 million in the first quarter of 2007. Excluding amortization of acquired technology, gross profit for the first quarter of 2008 would have been RMB8.6 million (US$1.2 million), an increase of 130.8% from the first quarter of 2007.

Consolidated gross margin for the first quarter of 2008 was 33.6%, compared to 49.2% in the first quarter of 2007 and 43.5% in the fourth quarter of 2007. The decrease in gross margin was largely due to the amortization of acquired technology of RMB3.8 million (US$0.55 million), which represented 27.5% of total revenue in the first quarter of 2008, compared to 1.9% in the first quarter of 2007. Excluding amortization of acquired technology, gross margin for the first quarter of 2008 would have been 61.2%, compared to 51.1% in the first quarter of 2007.

Operating Expenses

Research and development expenses in the first quarter increased 37.2 percent year over year to RMB0.2 million (US$24 thousand). The increase in research and development was mainly due to the acquisition of Royalstone last year, which led to the integration of two research and development teams.

General and administrative expenses in the first quarter increased 169.7 percent year over year to RMB7.9 million (US$1.1 million). The increase in general and administrative expenses was mainly due to RMB2.3 million (US$0.3 million) of bad debt expenses caused by significantly increased accounts receivable. We had US$2 million of accounts receivable in the first quarter, an 84.9% increase from the same period of 2007.General and administrative expenses for the first quarter of 2008 were 56.2 percent of total revenues, compared to 40.1 percent in the first quarter of 2007 and 20.8 percent in the fourth quarter of 2007.

Selling and distribution expenses in the first quarter increased 73.0 percent year over year to RMB3.8 million (US$536 thousand). The increase in selling and distribution expenses was partially due to a significant increase in our sales contracts. Selling and distribution expenses for the first quarter of 2008 were 26.8 percent of total revenues, compared to 29.9 percent in the first quarter of 2007 and 8.2 percent in the fourth quarter of 2007.

Total share-based compensation expenses in the first quarter of 2008 were RMB0.8 million (US$0.1 million).

Operating loss in the first quarter of 2008 was RMB7.1 million (US$1.0 million), a 332.5% increase from RMB1.6 million in the first quarter of 2007. Operating margin was -50.5% in the first quarter of 2008, compared to -22.5% in the first quarter 2007 and 14.1% in the fourth quarter of 2007.

Net Income

Net loss for the first quarter of 2008 was RMB9.2 million (US$1.3 million), compared to net losses of RMB1.2 million in the first quarter of 2007 and net loss RMB24.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2007. Net margins were -65.8% in the first quarter of 2008 compared to -16.74% in the first quarter of 2007 and -50.6% in the fourth quarter of 2007. The increase in net loss and decrease in net margin was due to a number of factors including amortization of acquired technology from the acquisitions completed in 2007 of RMB3.8 million (US$0.6 million), bad debt expenses of RMB2.4 million (US$0.3 million) as a result of a large increase in accounts receivable at the end of the quarter.

Basic and diluted losses per share for the first quarter of 2008 were RMB3.14 (US$0.45) and RMB3.14 (US$0.45), respectively.

EBITDA

EBITDA (non-GAAP) for the first quarter of 2008 was RMB-1.39 million (US$- 0.2 million), a decrease of 101.1% from the first quarter of 2007. First quarter of 2008 adjusted net loss (non-GAAP) was RMB3.2 million (US$0.5 million), an increase of 732% from the first quarter of 2007.

Adjusted non-GAAP diluted losses per share for the first quarter of 2008 was RMB1.09 (US$0.16).

Cash Flow and Capital Expenditures

As of March 31, 2008, the company had RMB59.3 million (US$8.5 million) in cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments. Net cash generated from operating activities and capital expenditures in the first quarter of 2008 were RMB-8.2 million (US$-1.2 million) and RMB2.2 million (US$0.3 million), respectively.

As of March 31, 2008 the company had 627 employees compared to 588 employees as of December 31, 2007.

Business Outlook for 2008

The company has raised its full-year 2008 total revenue guidance to be in the range of approximately US$19 to US$20 million, representing annual growth of 65 to 74% over 2007. This forecast is a current and preliminary view and is subject to change.

Conference Call Information

eFuture's management will hold an earnings conference call at 8:30 p.m. on June 23, 2008 U.S. Eastern Time (8:30 a.m. on June 24, 2008 Beijing/Hong Kong Time).

Dial-in details for the earnings conference call are as follows: U.S. and International: +1-888-710-9688 Mainland China: +86-10-5851-1260 Hong Kong: +852-8306-5032

Please dial in 10 minutes before the call is scheduled to begin and request to be connected to the "eFuture earnings call."

Additionally, an archived webcast of the conference call will be available on the company's website at http://www.e-future.com.cn .

About eFuture Information Technology Inc.

eFuture is a leading provider of front-end supply chain management software and services in China. eFuture provides integrated software and service solutions to manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, logistics companies and retailers in China's front-end supply chain market, especially in the retail and Fast Moving Consumer Goods industries. eFuture currently serves more than 1,000 clients, including Fortune 500 companies, over 770 retailers and over 200 distributors operating in China. eFuture is also one of IBM's premier business partners in Asia Pacific and is a strategic partner with Oracle, Microsoft, JDA, Motorola and Samsung Network China. The company has over 650 employees and 20 branch offices across China.

For more information about eFuture, please visit http://www.e- future.com.cn/.

Source: tradingmarkets

Industrial Leaders Trademark

16.06.2008 15:30:30 The on-line industrial supply marketplace IndustrialLeaders.com, has published a special report on its Web site to promote U.S. manufacturers of industrial supplies, equipment and machinery in Mexico

(live-PR.com) - Mexico City, Mexico - Industrial Leaders, the B2B trade portal connecting industrial suppliers and buyers announced today the launch of a special report designed to promote U.S. industrial goods in Mexico. According to Maria Santos, spokeswoman for the company, the report is designed for manufacturers utilizing the Industrial Classifieds Marketplace at www.industrialsaver.com/classifieds which enables users to post and explore free ads to buy or sell a variety of industrial supplies, equipment and machinery.

Santos said U.S. manufacturers and exporters of industrial and construction products use the report to locate trade leads, trading partners and business opportunities in Mexico. "Companies serious about entering or expanding into Mexico are often surprised to learn the country offers numerous business opportunities," said Santos. She added, "The Mexican and U.S. Industrial Trade Report was published to encourage trade in effort to support industrial workers in both countries in a increasingly competitive global marketplace." The report is free to access at www.foreigntradeexchange.com/countries/mexico.ht ..

Industrial Leaders plans to launch a number of Web sites designed to connect U.S. manufacturers in different States with Mexican companies, primarily engineers and other industrial buyers in Mexico. The company said border States such as Texas, Arizona and California will be the first to have their Web site and product line promoted on the Industrial Leaders Group 'Buy American' network at www.IndustrialLeaders.com/reviews in effort to encourage trade in the region.

Conrad Bailey, Business Director of Industrial Leaders believes increasing trade between manufacturers in Mexico and the United States will help solve a lot of immigrant problems by creating quality jobs in both countries. "The majority of Mexicans are proud, hard working people and the country itself has a lot of potential to become a more interactive marketplace for U.S. importers and exporters of industrial goods, said Bailey. He explained, "U.S. political leaders need to work more closely with Mexican officials to encourage trade between the two countries in support of both economies."

About Industrial Leaders

IndustrialLeaders.com, the 'American Industrial Marketplace' connects buyers and suppliers of industrial supplies, equipment and machinery throughout North and South America with emphasis on Canada and the United States. The primary focus of Industrial Leaders is to promote American manufacturers overseas at www.IndustrialLeaders.com
Contact information:
Industrial Leaders

Industrial Leaders
290 Turnpike Road
Westboro, MA 01581



Contact Person:
Rich Milton
PR
Phone: 206-333-0355
eMail: eMail

Web: http://www.IndustrialLeaders.com

Author:
Richard Milton
e-mail
Web: http://www.industrialsaver.com
Phone: 206-333-0355

F&E Aerospace, the company behind top Middle East aviation events such as the Dubai Airshow and Aircraft Interiors Middle East (AIME) - which kicks off 16 June - believes its five strong events portfolio will attract over 1,500 aviation companies and 60,000 trade professionals over the next 18 months.

And according to the company, which has been operating locally for over 30 years, the huge growth in the regional aerospace market has cemented the emirate's reputation as the region's primary aviation hub and spearheaded the shows' evolutions.

'The Middle East aerospace market and the development of our shows, starting with the Dubai Airshow in 1989, have always worked in synergy for the greater purpose of establishing the emirate as a leading, global aerospace centre.

The Middle East has continued to record massive growth across the aerospace industry's diverse sectors, and in many ways leads the pack in terms of innovation and expansion. One only has to look at the meteoric rise of Emirates airline or the new Dubai World Central project to see this,' said Virginia Kern, Chairman, F&E.

'As the regional industry continues to expand, so does the need to provide key business platforms for the world's industry to gather, discuss and drive forward its evolution. This is what we are trying to pursue with our latest initiatives.'

AIME 2008

The launch of AIME 2008, a dedicated event serving the aircraft interiors sector, running 16-17th June at the Dubai International Conventions & Exhibitions Centre (DICEC), is the latest in the company's catalogue of achievements as it continues to position Dubai, under the auspices of its government, as the Middle East's aviation events platform.

Taking off with 100 new companies from 15 countries, and an expected visitor turnout of 2,000, AIME 2008, will feature a dedicated two day conference programme, including a welcome address by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Government of Dubai and President and CEO of the Emirates Group.

Chaired by a host of industry 'heavyweights', other sessions will include topics such as: 'The Passenger Demands of the VIP Market - Why the Gulf is Important', 'Going Green in Interiors', 'Future Technologies for In-flight Catering' and 'The Future for Aircraft Interiors'.

The organisers have also launched a dedicated hosted buyer programme for AIME. This initiative is being implemented to foster an increased B2B setting for the industry's key decision makers and suppliers.

To date, signed up carriers for the hosted buyer programme include Jet Aviation Airline, Air Maroc and Kuwait Airways, with further slots being allocated to Middle East airlines. In addition, many of the region's biggest names have already confirmed their attendance such as award winning Emirates airline; Etihad, the UAE's national carrier; Bahrain-based Gulf Air; Royal Jet, the international luxury flight services company headquartered in Abu Dhabi; and the UAE's Amiri Flight.

'The aircraft interiors market is coming along in leaps and bounds. Strong growth in both the commercial and business aviation fields is not only driving its development, but is forcing it to diversify as customers needs and expectations become more tailored,' said Alison Weller, Director, F&E Aerospace.

'The need to develop a dedicated Middle East event to tackle the sector's challenges was a must. Via this platform, the international industry has a direct channel to talk to the region's principal players.'

The company has set its sight on diversifying its portfolio, with the announcement of two new shows set to debut next year - MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) Middle East and Aerospace Defence & Training Show (ADTS).

MRO Middle East

MRO Middle East, which will take place 21-22 January 2009, is expected to attract over 100 exhibitors and will boast a two day conference programme. The event will bring together decision-makers and suppliers to discuss all issues relating to aircraft maintenance.

The show has a strong pedigree behind it as it is being organised by Aviation Week - which already runs the world's number one MRO event in the US, and additional exhibitions in Asia and Europe.

'The Middle East will sport the fastest MRO growth of 8.9% per year compared to an overall industry average of 3.6% - so now is the time to launch an event here in the Middle East as this industry is set for some interesting times,' said Weller.

In addition, ADTS, which runs from the 2-3rd March at Airport Expo Dubai, will look to attract a similar number of exhibitors as it pursues a currently unaddressed market niche.

'Many companies have already told us this event is well-timed. The region is crying out for an show of this type, which addresses the issues and discovers solutions for the industry's training and recruitment needs,' said Weller.

'On the civil side there is massive growth from regional carriers, predicted to need 8,000 additional pilots by 2025. And on the defence side, one example here in the UAE is the air force readying itself to select new platforms for its basic and lead-in fighter trainers.'

ADTS will look at all aspects of the aerospace industry that require training, and cover all angles, from the pilots and crew, both civil and military, air traffic control, engineering, aviation management and many other associated jobs.

Through the conference and the associated exhibition they will cover the simulation products offered, the recruitment initiatives and opportunities available and the universities, courses and colleges offering aerospace and defence training.

F&E Aerospace is also heavily focusing on developing its current shows, with the 2009 Dubai Airshow tipped to be its largest to date and 2008's MEBA event already more than double in size than the 2007 edition.

Dubai Airshow 2007 boasted 850 exhibitors and 11 national pavilions representing 50 countries - 130 of these being new to the region. 45,421 visitors attended over the five days - 10,000 more than in 2005 - and over 140 aircraft were displayed on the static park, firmly cementing its reputation as the third largest aerospace event in the world

The biennial show also saw over $150bn worth of orders placed during its five days and now holds the record for the largest amount of deals ever concluded at one event.

And F&E Aerospace believe that this figure is expected to grow considerably for the 2009 outing as it moves to its new venue, with the proposed site covering more than double the size of the current Airport Expo Dubai.

MEBA 2008

MEBA 2008 - the dedicated B2B conference and exhibition for the business aviation sector, which will take place at the Dubai Airport Expo from the 16-18th November - will also more than double in size from last year, with exhibitor numbers, represented countries and aircraft on display all significantly up.

Visitor numbers are also tipped to smash last year's record with more than 5,000 expected to attend the three day event - an increase of over 50%.

'Dubai Airshow and MEBA are our stalwart events and are core drivers in both F&E Aerospace's and Dubai's continuing establishment as one of the world's leading destinations to conduct business for the industry at large,' added Weller.

'Their growth serves as the sector's barometer. It is not just about size, although this says a lot. It is about the quality of exhibitor, visitor and VIP coming through the doors which speaks volumes. Dubai and these events continue to attract a wide range of the world's leading decision makers, which is a significant indication of how this market is valued by the industry.'

Masergy, a service provider specializing in simplifying business networks for enterprises, has introduced its Video Extranet service for interoperable business-to-business videoconferencing for enterprise customers, partners and suppliers.

Masergy said its Video Extranet provides video conferencing solutions to enterprises seeking to communicate privately across different network providers inside a managed quality-of-service (QoS) network environment.

Enterprises often run video conferencing equipment on closed, private networks, limiting their connectivity to others to protect their own network assets, performance and integrity, said Scott Brothers, director, product management at MASERGY. With the MASERGY Video Extranet service, these companies now can get flexible video connectivity with guaranteed QoS, reliable performance and consistent security to enterprises using high-definition, telepresence or standard video conferencing equipment.

The company noted that benefits for enterprises implementing Masergy's Video Extranet service include:

- B2B communication among enterprises on separate private networks - Video communications between corporations on different IP carriers - Interoperability of various application equipment in a secure network environment

The inherent security of the Video Extranet environment eliminates the need for encryption while connecting corporations on different carriers or private networks, Masergy said. The Video Extranet handles all network routing directly via Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) and tunneling.

Source: tradingmarkets.com