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Altria Announces Conversion of Its Non-Voting Shares in JUUL; Does Not Intend to Exercise Governance Rights Pending FTC Litigation Outcome

Altria Announces Conversion of Its Non-Voting Shares in JUUL; Does Not Intend to Exercise Governance Rights Pending FTC Litigation Outcome

RICHMOND, Va.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Altria Group, Inc. (Altria) (NYSE:MO) announces today that it has elected to convert its non-voting shares in JUUL Labs, Inc. to voting shares, pursuant to its December 2018 investment in JUUL. Altria does not currently intend to exercise its additional governance rights obtained upon conversion, including the right to elect directors to JUUL’s board, or to vote its JUUL shares other than as a passive investor, pending the outcome of the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) litigation.

As previously disclosed, Altria expects to account for its investment in JUUL under the fair value option. Under this option, Altria’s consolidated statement of earnings will include any cash dividends received from its investment in JUUL as well as any changes in the fair value of the investment, which will be calculated quarterly. Altria intends to treat quarterly changes in the fair value of the investment as a special item and exclude those changes from its adjusted diluted earnings per share.

Background

In December 2018, Altria made a minority investment in JUUL. In exchange for the investment, Altria received a 35% economic interest in JUUL through non-voting shares, with their conversion to voting shares contingent on antitrust clearance (as that term is defined in the Altria/JUUL purchase agreement). Under revised agreement terms announced in January 2020, Altria can designate two representatives to JUUL’s board of directors.

In April 2020, the FTC filed an administrative complaint challenging Altria’s minority investment in JUUL. Altria believes it has a strong defense and intends to vigorously defend its investment.

Altria’s Profile

Altria’s wholly owned subsidiaries include Philip Morris USA Inc. (PM USA), U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company LLC (USSTC), John Middleton Co. (Middleton), Ste. Michelle Wine Estates Ltd. (Ste. Michelle) and Philip Morris Capital Corporation (PMCC). Altria owns an 80% interest in Helix Innovations LLC (Helix). Altria holds equity investments in Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV (ABI), JUUL Labs, Inc. (JUUL) and Cronos Group Inc. (Cronos).

The brand portfolios of Altria’s tobacco operating companies include Marlboro®, Black & Mild®, Copenhagen®, Skoal® and on!®. Ste. Michelle produces and markets premium wines sold under various labels, including Chateau Ste. Michelle®, 14 Hands® and Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars™, and it imports and markets Antinori®, Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte™ and Villa Maria Estate™ products in the United States. Trademarks and service marks related to Altria referenced in this release are the property of Altria or its subsidiaries or are used with permission.

More information about Altria is available at altria.com and on the Altria Investor app, or follow Altria on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Altria Client Services

Investor Relations

(804) 484-8222

Altria Client Services

Media Affairs

(804) 484-8897

KEYWORDS: United States North America Virginia

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Professional Services Retail Other Retail Wine & Spirits Legal Tobacco

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DJO® Acquires STAR® Ankle and Finger Arthroplasty Systems

DJO® Acquires STAR® Ankle and Finger Arthroplasty Systems

Acquisition adds two new and rapidly growing segments to surgical portfolio

DALLAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
DJO, LLC (DJO or the Company), a leading global provider of medical technologies to get and keep people moving, today announced that it has completed the acquisition of total ankle and finger arthroplasty product lines from international medical technology company Stryker.

The acquisition includes the STAR® total ankle arthroplasty system, a preferred technology worldwide because of its deep and leading clinical outcomes research,1-9 along with Silicone, Surface Replacement (SR) and TACTYS® finger joint arthroplasty products, one of the world’s most comprehensive finger joint arthroplasty portfolios.

Ankle replacements in the U.S. more than doubled last year, in part because ankle implants are becoming the treatment of choice over fusion surgery.10 The STAR ankle is a mobile-bearing total ankle replacement in the U.S. market approved for uncemented use, making it a preferred choice for surgeons and patients who want to help restore mobility.

“Ankle and finger arthroplasty are two fast-growing arthroplasty segments, and this acquisition reflects DJO’s focus on providing market-leading solutions to meet the greater needs of surgeons and their patients,” said Brady Shirley, CEO of DJO®. “This expansion allows us to address a larger patient population and enhances our goal of helping patients return to an active lifestyle.”

STAR System

STAR is one of the first total ankle replacement systems in the market and carries a substantial amount of clinical data over many years demonstrating strong performance.1-9 Intended for use to replace a painful arthritic ankle joint due to osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, STAR’s modular components and positional forgiveness allow for 225 patient-matched configurations with just one surgical technique.

Finger Joint Arthroplasty

The Silicone, Surface Replacement (SR) and TACTYS finger joint arthroplasty portfolio holds a leading global market position with a 20-year clinical history.

  • Silicone constrained silicone elastomer joint replacement devices are designed to replace the affected surface of the PIP and MCP hand joints. The arthroplasty devices have a volar hinge axis intended to create an anatomical balance between the flexor and extensor mechanisms.
  • SR semi-constrained implants are designed to replicate the anatomic joint surfaces of the PIP and MCP joints, preserve bone and reduce disruption to the collateral ligament origins and insertions.
  • TACTYS implant is a total anatomic gliding and modular prosthesis for (PIP) arthritis.

For more information, visit djoglobal.com/surgical.

About DJO®

DJO, a subsidiary of Colfax Corporation (NYSE: CFX), is a leading developer and distributor of high-quality medical devices that provide proven solutions for musculoskeletal health, joint reconstruction, vascular health, and pain management. The Company’s extensive range of products and integrated technologies address the orthopedic continuum of care from performance and mobility to surgical intervention and post-operative rehabilitation; enabling people around the world to regain or maintain their natural motion. For additional information about DJO, please visit www.DJOGlobal.com.

References

  1. Jastifer, J., & Coughlin, M. (2014). Long-Term Follow-Up of Mobile Bearing Total Ankle Arthroplasty in the United States. Foot & Ankle International, 143-150.
  2. Saltzman, C. L., Mann, R. A., Ahrens, J. E., Amendola, A., Anderson, R. B., Berlet, G. C., . . . Coughlin, M. J. (2009). Prospective Controlled Trial of STAR Total Ankle Replacement versus Ankle Fusion: Initial Results. Foot Ankle Int Foot & Ankle International,30(7), 579-596.
  3. Stryker STAR Op Tech STAR-ST-2_Rev-1
  4. Gougoulias, N., & Maffulli, N. (2015). History of Total Ankle Replacement in North America. Primary and Revision Total Ankle Replacement, 3-13. doi:10.1007/978-3-319-24415-0_1
  5. Mann, J. A., Mann, R. A., & Horton, E. (2011). STAR™ Ankle: Long-Term Results. Foot Ankle Int Foot & Ankle International,32(05), 473-484. doi:10.3113/fai.2011.0473
  6. Chao, J., Choi, J. H., Grear, B. J., Tenenbaum, S., Bariteau, J. T., & Brodsky, J. W. (2015). Early radiographic and clinical results of Salto total ankle arthroplasty as a fixed-bearing device. Foot and Ankle Surgery,21(2), 91-96. doi:10.1016/j.fas.2014.09.012
  7. Internal document :Includes world-wide implantations of all generations; newest generation has over 30,000 world-wide since 1998-2015.
  8. Daniels, T. R., Mayich, D. J., & Penner, M. J. (2015). Intermediate to Long-Term Outcomes of Total Ankle Replacement with the Scandinavian Total Ankle Replacement (STAR). The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery-American Volume,97(11), 895-903. doi:10.2106/jbjs.n.01077
  9. Brodsky, J. W., Polo, F. E., Coleman, S. C., & Bruck, N. (2011). Changes in Gait Following the Scandinavian Total Ankle Replacement. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (American) J Bone Joint Surg Am,93(20). doi:10.2106/jbjs.j.00347
  10. American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, https://www.foothealthfacts.org/article/ankle-replacement-rapidly-on-the-rise

 

Brittany Knudson

760-681-7785

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: Texas United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Surgery Health Medical Devices

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Zoetis Receives European Commission Marketing Authorization for Librela® (bedinvetmab)

Zoetis Receives European Commission Marketing Authorization for Librela® (bedinvetmab)

  • The first injectable monoclonal antibody authorized for alleviation of osteoarthritis pain in dogs
  • Librela works differently from other pain medications, combining one month of pain control and increased mobility, with a proven safety and efficacy profile
  • Librela has a unique mode of action, inhibiting Nerve Growth Factor—a key player in osteoarthritis pain

ZAVENTEM, Belgium–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Zoetis Inc. (NYSE:ZTS) today announced that the European Commission has granted the company marketing authorization for Librela (bedinvetmab), the first injectable monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapy approved in the European Union for monthly alleviation of osteoarthritis (OA) pain in dogs. Librela provides veterinarians a new treatment option, which effectively controls OA pain for a month, while also offering a positive safety profile.

Librela is the first-of-its-kind veterinary medicine that contains bedinvetmab, a monoclonal antibody that binds to Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), a key player in OA pain1 and in doing so reduces pain. It functions like naturally occurring antibodies, with minimal involvement of the liver or kidneys in its metabolism and elimination from the body; bedinvetmab also produces minimal gastrointestinal (GI) impact.After one injection of Librela, dogs with osteoarthritis exhibited increased mobility and decreased pain.

Untreated OA Pain Can Limit a Dog’s Quality of Life

“My personal experience and clinical research has taught me that OA pain can affect many areas of a pet’s life, including sleep, cognitive function, affect (emotion) and social relationships, among several other factors,” said Dr. Duncan Lascelles, Professor of Surgery and Pain Management at North Carolina State University and Chair of the WSAVA Global Pain Council. “The potential for Anti-NGF therapy to control OA pain is an exciting new development, representing a new therapeutic class, an innovative tool for clinicians working to alleviate OA pain, and a new medicinal innovation. NGF is one of the key factors mediating pain, inducing the release of both proinflammatory mediators and more NGF contributing to a cycle of pain and inflammation. Anti-NGF therapy could be the most exciting therapeutic advance in more than 20 years in veterinary medicine to control osteoarthritis associated pain.”

“We are honored to be granted the first approval of a monoclonal antibody therapy for alleviation of pain for veterinary use,” said Dr. Catherine Knupp, Executive Vice President and President, Research and Development at Zoetis. “As a leader in innovation for Animal Health, we are once again using our science and understanding of customer needs to find solutions that can improve the health, well-being and quality of life for pets.”

According to Dr. Knupp, this innovation results from a deeper scientific understanding of the mechanisms of osteoarthritis pain. “Veterinarians have told us that OA remains one of the diseases that affects dogs’ quality of life the most. This first-in-class medicine gives veterinarians effective, safe options to alleviate pain for canine patients, and I am very proud of the breakthrough treatment our Zoetis team has developed,” said Dr. Knupp. “Librela joins Zoetis’ Trocoxil® and Rimadyl® as part of the company’s portfolio of treatment options for canine patients with osteoarthritis.”

Bedinvetmab administered as monthly injections during the pivotal field study (three-month placebo-controlled, followed by six months continuation therapy), demonstrated a reduction in osteoarthritis pain as compared to placebo-controlled dogs. Furthermore, this pain reduction was maintained throughout the six-month continuation study, demonstrating sustained efficacy of bedinvetmab for at least nine months. Mild reactions at the injection site (e.g. swelling and heat) may uncommonly be observed. In a subset of dogs included in a single-arm continuation study lasting up to nine months, no loss of efficacy or change in the safety profile were identified. Librela is generally well-tolerated at the recommended dose, and no additional side effects were observed at overdose.

About Librela® (bedinvetmab)

Bedinvetmab is a monoclonal antibody (mAb) designed for dogs. It neutralizes Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), a key player involved in osteoarthritis in dogs, and in doing so reduces pain. Since bedinvetmab is an antibody it is eliminated by the body similar to endogenous proteins, with minimal involvement of the liver or kidneys. Librela has demonstrated efficacy in lowering canine pain for up to nine months in clinical studies.

About Zoetis

Zoetis is the leading animal health company, dedicated to supporting its customers and their businesses. Building on more than 65 years of experience in animal health, Zoetis discovers, develops, manufactures and commercializes medicines, vaccines and diagnostic products, which are complemented by biodevices, genetic tests and precision livestock farming. Zoetis serves veterinarians, livestock producers and people who raise and care for farm and companion animals with sales of its products in more than 100 countries. In 2019, the company generated annual revenue of $6.3 billion with approximately 10,600 employees. For more information, visit www.zoetis.com.

DISCLOSURE NOTICES

Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements, which reflect the current views of Zoetis with respect to: business plans or prospects, expectations regarding products, and other future events. These statements are not guarantees of future performance or actions. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. If one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if management’s underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by a forward-looking statement. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made. Zoetis expressly disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. A further list and description of risks, uncertainties and other matters can be found in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, including in the sections thereof captioned “Forward-Looking Statements and Factors That May Affect Future Results” and “Item 1A. Risk Factors,” in our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and in our Current Reports on Form 8-K. These filings and subsequent filings are available online at www.sec.gov, www.zoetis.com, or on request from Zoetis.

1 Schmelz, M., Mantyh, P., Malfait, A.M., Farrar, J., Yaksh, T., Tive, L. and Viktrup, L., 2019. Nerve growth factor antibody for the treatment of osteoarthritis pain and chronic low-back pain: mechanism of action in the context of efficacy and safety. Pain, 160(10), p.2210.

ZTS-PS

ZTS-IR

Media Contact:

Anne-France Quentric

+32 227468311 (o)

[email protected]

Investor Contact:

Steve Frank

1-973-822-7141 (o)

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: Belgium Europe United States North America New Jersey

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Consumer Health Pets Veterinary Pharmaceutical

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Walmart Launches New Pet Care Services, Continues to Expand Full Suite of Pet Offerings

Walmart Launches New Pet Care Services, Continues to Expand Full Suite of Pet Offerings

Leading Pet Retailer Brings Customers Affordable Pet Insurance, Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Services

BENTONVILLE, Ark.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Walmart understands pets aren’t just pets, they’re family. That’s why today, Walmart is announcing its continued expansion of its full suite of Pet offerings with the launch of Walmart Pet Care – a full-service, omnichannel pet care offering that makes holistic care easy, simple and affordable for the 90 million pet owners who shop at Walmart. The retailer is leveraging industry-leading providers to bring customers trusted pet care programs in one place, including Walmart Pet Insurance and convenient pet care services like dog-walking and pet sitting.

“We’re on a mission to help families live better – and that goes for pets, too,” said Melody Richard, merchandising vice president, Pets. “Especially as adoption rates soar as a result of the pandemic and more people become pet owners, this was the perfect time to launch expanded services in Walmart Pet Care for our customers. As the most shopped omnichannel retailer for pet products, our new pet care services and support offer our customers trusted, convenient services that provide the exceptional care their pets deserve.”

In the U.S., 98% of pets remain uninsured*, even though one-third of Americans cannot cover an unexpected medical bill over $100**. As every pet parent’s trusted companion, Walmart offers Walmart Pet Insurance, an accessible insurance solution in the same place customers buy their pet food and fill their pet’s prescriptions. In collaboration with Petplan, North America’s most comprehensive pet insurance provider^, Walmart customers can save up to 10% on their policies and can sign-up for an insurance plan that provides coverage for veterinary fees due to accident, injury or illness, including chronic and hereditary conditions. Walmart Pet Insurance also makes it easy for customers to file claims and schedule appointments through Petplan’s digital service. Each policy also includes access to $1000 worth of online virtual vet appointments at no additional charge.

Walmart Pet Care will also include new pet sitting and dog walking services through Rover, an easy-to-use website and app that provides access to trusted neighborhood care. Through Rover, pet parents can quickly and easily book pet sitters and dog walkers from over 300,000 providers in their communities across the country. Walmart is working with Rover to provide customers with convenient pet sitters and dog walkers that match each pet, lifestyle and budget. As a perk for pet owners who book services through Rover, Walmart customers will receive a $20 Walmart gift card for their first completed service and another $20 Walmart gift card if they complete their fifth services within six months.

Walmart Pet Care includes Walmart PetRx, in-store and online pharmacy services introduced by Walmart in 2019, that give customers the opportunity to fill pet prescriptions at prices significantly below competitors. Walmart Pet Care is just one of the recent investments the retailer has made in the Pet category, joining its growing assortment of over 1,800 premium and specialty pet products and the expansion of in-store vet clinics that offer Walmart customers quality pet care, conveniently where they shop.

For more information on Walmart Pet Care, visit Walmart.com/PetCare.

*Source: Total Pets Insured. (2020, June 11). Retrieved from https://naphia.org/about-the-industry/section-2-total-pets-insured/

**Source: Facts + Statistics: Pet statistics. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.iii.org/fact-statistic/facts-statistics-pet-statistics

^Source: Most comprehensive according to Consumer’s Advocate based on a comparison of injury and illness coverage between Petplan and North American pet insurance providers.

About Walmart

Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT) helps people around the world save money and live better – anytime and anywhere – in retail stores, online, and through their mobile devices. Each week, over 265 million customers and members visit approximately 11,500 stores under 56 banners in 27 countries and eCommerce websites. With fiscal year 2020 revenue at $524 billion, Walmart employs 2.2 million associates worldwide. Walmart continues to be a leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy and employment opportunity. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting http://corporate.walmart.com, on Facebook at http://facebook.com/walmart and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/walmart.

About Petplan

Petplan insurance policies are administered by Fetch Insurance Services, LLC (Fetch Insurance Agency, LLC in Michigan), d/b/a Petplan (Petplan Insurance Agency, LLC in California) and underwritten by XL Specialty Insurance Company, a Stamford, CT, Insurance Company, A.M. Best rated A+ and AGCS Marine Insurance Company, a Chicago, IL, Insurance Company, A.M. Best rated A+ and a member of the Allianz Group, in the U.S. and XL Specialty Insurance Company – Canadian Branch in Canada. Information accurate as of November 2020. Coverage is subject to terms and conditions, less any applicable policy limits, deductible or co-pay, and pursuant to all policy exclusions. Policy terms and conditions may vary by state or province. Virtual Visits are referred to in the policy as Telehealth treatments. Telehealth currently not available in NY, MO, NJ, WA, & CA. Most comprehensive according to Consumer’s Advocate as of September 2020 based on a comparison of injury and illness coverage between Petplan and North American pet insurance providers.

Raven Washabaugh, 800-331-0085

KEYWORDS: United States North America Arkansas

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Veterinary Discount/Variety Insurance Department Stores Pets Supermarket Professional Services Consumer Health Retail

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Shop for Tech Gifts on Your Own Terms at UScellular this Holiday Season

Shop for Tech Gifts on Your Own Terms at UScellular this Holiday Season

CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
For those looking for tech gifts this holiday season, the best deals are available now – and all season long – at UScellular, so no need to wait for Black Friday or Super Saturday. Bargain hunters can shop for holiday gifts on their own terms and get the latest smartphones and gadgets while avoiding store crowds and keeping their families and loved ones safe and healthy.

For those looking to make a carrier switch, UScellular is offering the latest smartphones FREE with no hidden requirements through Jan 11, 20211. That means holiday shoppers can score 5G smartphones like the iPhone 12, Samsung Galaxy S20 FE, Google Pixel 5 or LG V60 ThinQ 5G for free with no specific plan requirement, no mandatory trade-in and no activation fee. All three phones are great for video chatting, and with UScellular’s unlimited data plans and high-quality network, families can stay connected even if they can’t be together.

But that’s not all. UScellular has smartphone and accessory offerings for everyone, such as:

  • Now through Jan. 11, parents wanting to get their kid their first smartphone can add them on to their plan and get $150 off the device.2
  • Looking for a new prepaid phone? Through Jan. 11, the LG K8x is available for free for new prepaid customers on any 8 GB or higher Prepaid Evolved Plan.
  • Starting Nov. 20 and through Dec. 27, current upgrade-eligible customers can get $200 off the latest smartphones3, including those from Apple, Samsung, Google and LG.
  • Those looking to enhance their remote work or learning environment can check out UScellular’s selection of tablets, High-Speed Internet options or hotspots, including the recently-launched Inseego 5G MiFi® M2000 hotspot.
  • Stay connected and track activity with the new Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS & Cellular) and pay for it over 24 months – interest free – with UScellular’s Connected Wearables Installment Pricing.
  • For a smart stocking-stuffer gift for friends or family, be sure to grab a pack of Case-Mate CLEANSCREENZ Phone Cleaning Wipes and help them keep their phones clean and germ-free.
  • Pick up the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live earbuds or the JBL Flip 5 portable speaker for the audiophile in the family and pay for them via 12 monthly installments with 0% interest. (minimum $120 purchase)
  • Plus, be sure to get all the essential accessories for any new device, including cases, screen protectors and chargers.

“We’re extending the holiday shopping season this year to ensure that everyone can get great deals on the tech gifts they want while shopping on their terms, not ours,” said Courtland Madock, vice president of marketing at UScellular. “Our retail locations are open for safe, in-store shopping or curbside pickup, and our website has all the latest phones and gadgets for those looking to shop from the comfort of home. Our UScellular family wishes everyone a healthy and happy holiday season.”

To view the latest holiday tech deals at UScellular, go to www.uscellular.com/deals or visit a store.

1Offer requires new qualifying smartphone purchase on a 30-month retail installment contract with $0 Down and 0% APR. Port in and postpaid plan required. 2Offer requires new qualifying smartphone purchase on a 30-month retail installment contract with $0 Down and 0% APR. New line and postpaid plan required. 3Offer requires new qualifying smartphone purchase on a 30-month retail installment contract with $0 Down and 0% APR. Upgrade eligibility and postpaid plan required. For all, discount comes via a monthly bill credit. Credit approval required. Taxes and charges such as USF and RCRF apply. Additional terms apply.

Accessories Installment Pricing: available in company-owned stores or uscellular.com. 0% APR, 12 or 24-mo Retail Installment Contract (RIC) and credit approval required. UScellular service required. 24-mo RIC may require a down payment based on credit class. Prices and terms vary. RIC purchase must be equivalent to a minimum of $120 or $10/month. Taxes due at sale. See uscellular.com for details.

About UScellular

UScellular is the fourth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to elevate the customer experience. The Chicago-based carrier is building a stronger network with the latest 5G technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. It is ranked #1 in the North Central Region in the J.D. Power 2020 Wireless Network Quality Performance Study – Volume 2. To learn more about UScellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, promos and videos, connect with UScellular on Facebook.com/uscellular, Twitter.com/uscellular and YouTube.com/uscellularcorp.

Katie Frey

773-317-0002

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: United States North America Illinois

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Mobile/Wireless Technology Other Retail Telecommunications Software Networks Hardware Data Management Retail Consumer Electronics

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TeamMate+ global expert solution from Wolters Kluwer wins Product of the Year award in the 2020 BIG Awards for Business

TeamMate+ global expert solution from Wolters Kluwer wins Product of the Year award in the 2020 BIG Awards for Business

Innovative, cloud-based TeamMate+ audit management solution recognized for helping internal audit organizations take advantage of digital transformation to drive higher audit quality

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Today, Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting announced that its cloud-based TeamMate+ global expert solution received top honors in the Product of the Year – Technology Software category of the 2020 Business Intelligence Group BIG Awards for Business. The TeamMate+ audit management software provides audit professionals and their organizations with building blocks to address continuous risk assessments and expanded data integrators to support sharing of audit insights with other systems and business intelligence tools.

“We are thrilled that our TeamMate+ global expert solution was recognized as the Product of the Year in the 2020 BIG Awards for Business. This achievement illustrates our continued commitment to innovation and to advancing the audit profession forward,” said Jim Dunham, Executive Vice President & General Manager, Wolters Kluwer TeamMate. “Today, value-driven internal audit departments require unique functionality that allows them to work across organizational silos. TeamMate+ enables audit departments to integrate with governance, risk, and compliance systems while still maintaining their audit capabilities and empowering them to report across the organization.”

TeamMate+ global expert solutions help internal audit professionals at organizations across all industries around the world manage audit and compliance risks and business issues through targeted, configurable, and efficient software technologies. These expert solutions include TeamMate+ Audit, TeamMate+ Public Sector, TeamMate+ Controls, and TeamMate Analytics. Together, this ecosystem provides organizations with the combined assurance they need to manage all aspects of risk identification and risk assessment, electronic working paper creation and management, controls framework management, and data analysis.

“We are so proud to reward Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting for their outstanding 2020 achievements,” said Maria Jimenez, chief nomination officer of the Business Intelligence Group. “This year’s group of winners are clearly leading by example in the global business community.”

The Business Intelligence Group was founded with the mission of recognizing true talent and superior performance in the business world. Unlike other industry award programs, business executives—those with experience and knowledge—judge the programs. The organization’s proprietary and unique scoring system selectively measures performance across multiple business domains and then rewards those companies whose achievements stand above those of their peers.

About Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting

Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting is a leading provider of software solutions and local expertise that helps tax, accounting, and audit professionals research and navigate complex regulations, comply with legislation, manage their businesses and advise clients with speed, accuracy, and efficiency.

Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting is part of Wolters Kluwer (WKL), a global leader in professional information, software solutions, and services for the healthcare; tax and accounting; governance, risk and compliance; and legal and regulatory sectors. We help our customers make critical decisions every day by providing expert solutions that combine deep domain knowledge with advanced technology and services.

Wolters Kluwer reported 2019 annual revenues of €4.6 billion. The group serves customers in over 180 countries, maintains operations in over 40 countries, and employs approximately 19,000 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in Alphen aan den Rijn, the Netherlands.

Wolters Kluwer shares are listed on Euronext Amsterdam (WKL) and are included in the AEX and Euronext 100 indices. Wolters Kluwer has a sponsored Level 1 American Depositary Receipt (ADR) program. The ADRs are traded on the over-the-counter market in the U.S. (WTKWY).

For more information, visit www.wolterskluwer.com, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

MARISA WESTCOTT

212-771-0853

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: New York United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Professional Services Data Management Technology Software Finance Consulting Accounting

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Greg Hall Joins HanesBrands as Chief Consumer Officer

Greg Hall Joins HanesBrands as Chief Consumer Officer

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
HanesBrands (NYSE: HBI), a leading global marketer of branded everyday basic apparel, today announced that Greg Hall will join the company as chief consumer officer, effective Nov. 16, 2020.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201112005195/en/

Greg Hall joins HanesBrands as chief consumer officer (Photo: Business Wire)

Greg Hall joins HanesBrands as chief consumer officer (Photo: Business Wire)

“Our top priority is putting the consumer at the center of everything we do,” said Steve Bratspies, CEO, HanesBrands. “Greg is an outstanding merchandising and marketing leader with a track record of driving growth across industries. He will be responsible for how we engage with our consumers, from our brands to our retail stores to e-commerce, and will play a crucial role in building HanesBrands into a growth-oriented, consumer-centric organization.”

Hall will lead U.S. marketing and brands, e-commerce and retail. He will also be responsible for building the company’s global brands, particularly Champion and Hanes.

Most recently, Hall was senior vice president, private brands, at Walmart, where he delivered double-digit growth on the company’s private brand grocery business. During his 14 years at Walmart, Greg held a number of senior marketing and merchandising leadership roles, including chief marketing officer of Walmart.com and head of Walmart’s U.S. manufacturing initiative.

Prior to Walmart, Hall held leadership positions at Frito-Lay, where he developed and led major marketing programs for some of the company’s iconic brands.

Hall holds a bachelor’s degree from Southern Nazarene University and a master’s degree in management from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

HanesBrands

HanesBrands, based in Winston-Salem, N.C., is a socially responsible leading marketer of everyday basic innerwear and activewear apparel in the Americas, Europe, Australia and Asia-Pacific. The company sells its products under some of the world’s strongest apparel brands, including Hanes, Champion, Bonds, Maidenform, DIM, Bali, Playtex, Bras N Things, Nur Die/Nur Der, Alternative, L’eggs, JMS/Just My Size, Lovable, Wonderbra, Berlei, and Gear for Sports. The company sells T-shirts, bras, panties, shapewear, underwear, socks, hosiery, and activewear produced in the company’s low-cost global supply chain. A Fortune 500 company and member of the S&P 500 stock index (NYSE: HBI), Hanes has approximately 63,000 employees in more than 40 countries. For more information, visit the company’s corporate website at www.Hanes.com/corporate and newsroom at https://newsroom.hanesbrands.com/. Connect with the company via social media: Twitter (@hanesbrands), Facebook (www.facebook.com/hanesbrandsinc), Instagram (@hanesbrands), and LinkedIn (@Hanesbrandsinc).

News Media Contact:

Kirk Saville (336) 519-6192

Analysts and Investors Contact:

T.C. Robillard (336) 519-2115

KEYWORDS: North Carolina United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Manufacturing Fashion Textiles Retail Specialty

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Greg Hall joins HanesBrands as chief consumer officer (Photo: Business Wire)
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Applied DNA Secures Blanket Purchase Order for 10,000 Linea™ COVID-19 Tests

Applied DNA Secures Blanket Purchase Order for 10,000 Linea™ COVID-19 Tests

STONY BROOK, N.Y.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Applied DNA Sciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: APDN) (“Applied DNA” or the “Company”), a leader in Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)-based DNA manufacturing, today announced that it has secured a blanket purchase order from an existing customer for its Linea™ COVID-19 Assay Kit (the “Assay Kit”) and consumables to conduct 10,000 tests. The Company has already shipped a portion of the purchase order in the current fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2020. The balance of the purchase order is expected to be delivered in the current quarter. The Company anticipates recurring purchase orders for Assay Kits and consumables from the customer.

The Assay Kit may be used for pooled surveillance testing by non-CLIA and CLIA certified laboratories or by CLIA-certified laboratories for molecular diagnostic testing. The Assay Kit received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use as a molecular diagnostic test in May 2020. Pursuant to the EUA, the Assay Kit is authorized for use by CLIA-certified laboratories in the United States for the qualitative detection of nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2 in respiratory specimens, including anterior nasal swabs, self-collected at a healthcare location or collected by a healthcare worker, and nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs, mid-turbinate nasal swabs, nasopharyngeal washes/aspirates or nasal aspirates, and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) specimens collected by a healthcare worker from individuals who are suspected of COVID-19 by their healthcare provider.

The Assay Kit is authorized to run on ThermoFisher Scientific’s QuantStudio™ Dx Real-Time PCR Instrument and QuantStudio™ 5 Real-Time PCR System under an amendment to its EUA. Each PCR device is capable of performing 400 to 800 tests in a 24-hour period. The Company has applied for an additional amendment to its EUA that would extend the authorized use of its Assay Kit to ThermoFisher Scientific’s Applied Biosystems™ 7500 Real-Time PCR System, a widely used RT-PCR system that has the capacity to perform a similar number of tests to the QuantStudio 5 and QuantStudio Dx in a 24-hour period.

About the Linea™ COVID-19 Assay Kit

The scope of the Linea™ COVID-19 Assay Kit EUA, as amended, is expressly limited to use consistent with the Instructions for Use by authorized laboratories, certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) to perform high complexity tests. The EUA will be effective until the declaration that circumstances exist justifying the authorization of the emergency use of in vitro diagnostics for detection and/or diagnosis of COVID-19 is terminated or until the EUA’s prior termination or revocation. The diagnostic kit has not been FDA cleared or approved, and the EUA’s limited authorization is only for the detection of nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2, not for any other viruses or pathogens.

The Company is offering surveillance testing in compliance with current CDC, FDA, and CMS guidances. The use of pooled sampling for surveillance testing, which has been internally validated by the Company in compliance with current surveillance testing guidances, is not included in the Company’s EUA authorization for the Linea™ COVID-19 Assay Kit.

About Applied DNA Sciences

Applied DNA is a provider of molecular technologies that enable supply chain security, anti-counterfeiting and anti-theft technology, product genotyping, and pre-clinical nucleic acid-based therapeutic drug candidates.

Visit adnas.com for more information. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. Join our mailing list.

The Company’s common stock is listed on NASDAQ under ticker symbol ‘APDN’, and its publicly traded warrants are listed on OTC under ticker symbol ‘APPDW’.

Applied DNA is a member of the Russell Microcap® Index.

Forward-Looking Statements

The statements made by Applied DNA in this press release may be “forward-looking” in nature within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements describe Applied DNA’s future plans, projections, strategies and expectations, and are based on assumptions and involve a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of Applied DNA. Actual results could differ materially from those projected due to, its history of net losses, limited financial resources, limited market acceptance, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, future clinical data and analysis, including whether any of Applied DNA’s or its partner’s diagnostic candidates will advance further in the preclinical research or clinical trial process, including receiving clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or equivalent foreign regulatory agencies to conduct clinical trials and whether and when, if at all, they will receive final approval from the U.S. FDA or equivalent foreign regulatory agencies, the unknown outcome of any applications or requests to U.S. FDA, equivalent foreign regulatory agencies and/or the New York State Department of Health, the unknown limited duration of any Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval from U.S. FDA, changes in guidances promulgated by the CDC, FDA and/or CMS, disruptions in the supply of raw materials and supplies, and various other factors detailed from time to time in Applied DNA’s SEC reports and filings, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on December 12, 2019 and our subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed on February 6, 2020, May 14, 2020 and August 6, 2020, and other reports we file with the SEC, which are available at www.sec.gov. Applied DNA undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect new information, events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, unless otherwise required by law.

Investor contact: Sanjay M. Hurry, Applied DNA Sciences, 917-733-5573, [email protected]
Program contact: Brian Viscount, Applied DNA Sciences, 631-240-8877, [email protected]

Web:www.adnas.com

Twitter: @APDN

KEYWORDS: New York United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Oncology Health Infectious Diseases Hospitals Genetics Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

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Charles River and PathoQuest Strengthen Strategic Partnership

Charles River and PathoQuest Strengthen Strategic Partnership

PathoQuest establishes U.S. subsidiary with state-of-the-art biologics genomic testing laboratory in Wayne, PA to expand its next-generation sequencing capabilities

WILMINGTON, Mass. & PARIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
PathoQuest SAS, a genomic expert company dedicated to quality control testing of biologics, and its strategic partner Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. (NYSE: CRL), announced today that it has established a U.S. subsidiary, PathoQuest, Inc., and will construct a state-of-the-art next generation sequencing (NGS)-based testing laboratory at Charles River’s site in Wayne, PA. The establishment of this lab will enhance the strategic partnership between the two companies and will also expand Charles River’s and PathoQuest’s capabilities to meet client needs by providing a fully integrated and reliable solution for rapid viral safety testing of biologics, notably advanced therapeutic medicinal products (ATMPs) and vaccines.

The expanded relationship between PathoQuest and Charles River will offer North American biotechnology companies a NGS testing facility in the U.S. that identifies adventitious agents using PathoQuest’s rapid, in vitro, comprehensive testing approach which accelerates development timelines of biologics without compromising safety and efficacy. This NGS approach can also be utilized for the genetic characterization of cell lines. The partnership between Charles River and PathoQuest provides clients with the most sensitive and rapid testing methodologies to help ensure the safety of products produced by the biopharmaceutical industry.

Construction of PathoQuest’s new office and laboratory facility is scheduled to begin in late 2020 with NGS services expected to be available in 2021. Once complete, the lab will be aligned with PathoQuest’s existing lab in Paris and offer testing that adheres to Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP) in accordance with U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidelines. This solution will offer the biopharmaceutical industry a comprehensive offering of testing services performed within the same facility, enabling rapid and reliable support for biologics development and quality control testing.

Charles River’s Wayne facility supports the development of biological products, including cell line characterization, viral safety, and viral clearance studies. Charles River has made an additional direct investment in PathoQuest to help fund the establishment of this new facility and to support the expansion of PathoQuest’s testing platform into North America.

Approved Quotes

  • “The addition of a PathoQuest facility at the Wayne site highlights our commitment to addressing our clients’ dynamic needs. PathoQuest’s NGS-based testing solution provides a rapid, reliable and comprehensive testing solution, and now, clients will have it at their fingertips through this expanded partnership.” – Birgit Girshick, Corporate Executive Vice President, Discovery and Safety Assessment, Biologics Testing Solutions, and Avian Vaccine Services, Charles River
  • “Our NGS-based approach provides a state-of-the-art quality control testing solution for biopharmaceutical quality assurance and production managers. Our new facility in Wayne will create additional opportunities to integrate with Charles River’s service offerings and expose more pharmaceutical and biotechnology groups to our technology, furthering the rapid expansion of our business.” – Jean-Francois Brepson, President and CEO, PathoQuest

About Charles River

Charles River provides essential products and services to help pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, government agencies and leading academic institutions around the globe accelerate their research and drug development efforts. Our dedicated employees are focused on providing clients with exactly what they need to improve and expedite the discovery, early-stage development and safe manufacture of new therapies for the patients who need them. To learn more about our unique portfolio and breadth of services, visit www.criver.com.

About PathoQuest

PathoQuest as pharmaceutical establishment offers biopharmaceutical companies a game changing Genomic QC testing to secure the biosafety of biological drugs like cell & gene therapy products, vaccines and recombinant. It enables the ability to reduce the turnaround time for safety testing, replacing traditional methods like animal testing. PathoQuest’s technology combines a Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) platform with a proprietary sample preparation process completed by proprietary pathogen genome sequence databases and automated analysis pipeline.

Based on its technological platform, PathoQuest has also developed a metagenomic test direct from blood (iDTECT®) to improve the diagnosis of Bloodstream infections and fight against Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). For more information about PathoQuest, visit www.pathoquest.com.

Investor Contact for PathoQuest:

Patrick COURT

CFO

[email protected]

Media Contact for PathoQuest:

Ophélie PHILIPOT

External Communications Manager

[email protected]

Investor Contact for Charles River:

Todd Spencer

Corporate Vice President, Investor Relations

781-222-6455

[email protected]

Media Contact for Charles River:

Amy Cianciaruso

Corporate Vice President, Public Relations

781-222-6168

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: Europe United States North America France Pennsylvania Massachusetts

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Biotechnology General Health Medical Devices Health Pharmaceutical

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KYOCERA to Acquire 100% Ownership of California-Based SLD Laser

KYOCERA to Acquire 100% Ownership of California-Based SLD Laser

Kyocera’s fine ceramics to create synergies with new expertise in gallium nitride

KYOTO, Japan–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Kyocera Corporation (President: Hideo Tanimoto, hereafter “Kyocera”) today announced that it has concluded an agreement with California, U.S.-based SLD Laser (formally named Soraa Laser Diode, Inc.) to acquire 100% ownership of SLD Laser. Under the agreement, SLD Laser plans to begin operating as a Kyocera group company upon approval of regulatory authorities.* 1

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201112005440/en/

Laser Diode Module (Photo: Business Wire)

Laser Diode Module (Photo: Business Wire)

SLD Laser is a world leader in the commercialization of gallium nitride (GaN) based laser light sources and was established in 2013 as a technology startup. SLD Laser has won commercial success by developing, manufacturing and marketing innovative laser-based products with high efficiency and luminance for mobility, specialty lighting, consumer, and industrial applications. It has obtained safety certifications from ANSI/UL*2 and IEC*3 for its high-brightness laser light sources, and is dedicated to the safe and successful application of laser-based innovations.

SLD Laser was recently ranked 7th in Fortune magazine’s “2020 Best Workplaces in Manufacturing & ProductionTM,” *4 having promoted an employee-centric corporate culture since its founding.

Kyocera is committed to expanding and developing its business as well as contributing to the growth of various industries through creating new products and cultivating new markets, aiming to attain great synergies by integrating SLD Laser’s advanced GaN expertise with its own production technologies and R&D capabilities in fine ceramic-related businesses.

For more information regarding SLD Laser, please visit https://www.sldlaser.com/

Overview of SLD Laser

Company name

Soraa Laser Diode, Inc.

Location

Goleta, California, U.S.A.

Established

2013

Number of employees

169 (As of August 31, 2020)

Sales bases

U.S., Germany, Japan, China

Key products

GaN (gallium nitride) based laser diode products

*1 Operation will start after receiving the approval from regulatory authorities regarding national antitrust and investment regulations

*2 American National Standards Institute / Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

*3 International Electrotechnical Commission

*4 https://www.greatplacetowork.com/best-workplaces/manufacturing-and-production/2020?category=small-and-medium

About SLD Laser (formally Soraa Laser Diode, Inc.)

SLD Laser is a world leader in the commercialization of gallium nitride (GaN) based laser light sources for automotive, mobility, specialty lighting, consumer, and industrial applications. The company is ISO 9001 certified and automotive compliant to IATF 16949, and operates facilities in Santa Barbara, CA and in Fremont, CA. SLD Laser’s innovative high luminance laser light sources are UL and IEC safety certified, and are utilized in a myriad of applications including automotive & mobility, specialty & portable illumination, entertainment & outdoor lighting, projection displays, biomedical & industrial imaging, 3D printing & material processing, as well as next generation sensing & communications. SLD Laser was founded in 2013 by Dr. Shuji Nakamura, 2014 Nobel Laureate in Physics, Dr. Steve Denbaars, Dr. James Raring, and Dr. Paul Rudy.

About KYOCERA

Kyocera Corporation (TOKYO:6971, https://global.kyocera.com/), the parent and global headquarters of the Kyocera Group, was founded in 1959 as a producer of fine ceramics (also known as “advanced ceramics”). By combining these engineered materials with metals and integrating them with other technologies, Kyocera has become a leading supplier of industrial and automotive components, semiconductor packages, electronic devices, smart energy systems, printers, copiers, and mobile phones. During the year ended March 31, 2020, the company’s consolidated sales revenue totaled 1.6 trillion yen (approx. US$14.7 billion). Kyocera is ranked #549 on Forbes magazine’s 2020 “Global 2000” list of the world’s largest publicly traded companies.

KYOCERA Corporation (Japan), Corporate Communications

Kenichi Hara, Tel: +81-(0)75-604-3416 Fax: +81-(0)75-604-3516

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: United States Japan North America Asia Pacific California

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Semiconductor Hardware Manufacturing Other Manufacturing Technology

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Laser Diode Module (Photo: Business Wire)