Monthly Archives: October 2024

News

Panasonic PTZ Auto Framing Delivers Broadcast Quality Video

New Plug-in for Media Production Suite and Firmware Update for AW-UE160W/K

Wiesbaden, DE. October 2024 – Panasonic Connect Europe today announced a new auto framing feature for Panasonic PTZ cameras that delivers natural, high-quality, automated video content suitable for broadcasting and video production. The application will be offered as a paid Advanced Auto Framing plug-in for Panasonic’s Media Production Suite software platform from CY2025 Q2. In addition, selected auto framing features will be offered free of charge for Panasonic’s top-of-the-line AW-UE160W/K PTZ camera via firmware and Media Production Suite updates from CY2025 Q1.

Panasonic’s new auto framing solution incorporates advanced technologies such as auto tracking, image recognition and natural auto framing. It delivers exact user-defined camera framing for enhanced on-site efficiency and high-quality content.

The paid Advanced Auto Framing plug-in for the Media Production Suite, activated with a software key, will enable auto framing for Panasonic PTZ cameras including the AW-UE160W/K, AW-UE150W/K, AW-UE100W/K and AW-UE80W/K. The plug-in will support multi-camera setup for auto framing to enhance subject-detection accuracy and operability. Additionally, facial recognition technology will enable optimal framing for specified individuals.

The new auto framing feature for the AW-UE160W/K will be offered free of charge via camera firmware and Media Production Suite updates. Subject detection is handled by the camera’s internal processor and framing commands are managed with the Media Production Suite. The feature will be usable on any PC that meets the Media Production Suite’s basic operating requirements.

The Advanced Auto Framing plug-in and auto framing feature of the AW-UE160W/K enables professional-level automatic framing in real time, thanks to framing presets that accurately replicate user-defined settings. Various framing presets can be combined, including multi-subject group shots. Advanced human body detection ensures consistent subject headroom. These features make it easy to shoot and produce high-quality video content.

The GUI’s design and operation are consistent with those of the Media Production Suite for intuitive setup and operation via a user-friendly control panel. The Advanced Auto Framing plug-in’s GUI includes a multi-camera display option for easy management of multiple PTZ cameras. Multiple feeds can be monitored and controlled from a single screen to facilitate multi-camera shooting even in environments with limited staff to ensure high content quality.

The auto framing application can be used in conjunction with the AW-RP150GJ and AW-RP60GJ remote camera controllers, making it easy to fine-tune the camera angle during auto framing. In addition, synchronising camera selection with auto framing in the Media Production Suite simplifies switching between auto and manual framing operations.

“The consumption of video content via streaming platforms and web-based broadcasts is skyrocketing,” explained Andre Meterian, Director of Professional Video Systems for Panasonic Connect Europe. “This trend has dramatically increased the need to optimise human resources and technical systems to ensure the stable production and delivery of high-quality content across broadcast networks, production houses and live-event coverage. Panasonic’s auto framing software will deliver high-quality framing for advanced content production in broadcast studios and live event shooting with PTZ cameras, contributing to more efficient on-site workflows.”

More details follow:

Advanced Auto Framing Plug-in

  • Auto framing with multiple Panasonic PTZ cameras.
  • Register multiple user-created framing presets to accurately reproduce user-defined framing.
  • Group shots for framing multiple subjects, such as two- and three-shots.
  • Stable framing of moving subjects based on advanced human body detection and camera control for professional-level camera work, including consistent headroom.
  • Privacy-conscious shooting since body detection does not require personal information.
  • Facial recognition with registered faces allows specification of individuals for framing.
  • Multi-camera coordination for stable subject detection and seamless switching between framing targets.
  • GUI accepts PTZ camera listing for multi-camera viewing and operation.
  • Subject-tracking autofocus using phase detection auto focus (AW-UE160W/K only).
  • Seamless integration with Panasonic AW-RP150GJ & AW-RP60GJ remote camera controllers.
  • Tablet-ready GUI for touch-panel operation.

AW-UE160W/K Auto Framing Feature

  • Available via free firmware and Media Production Suite updates from: https://eww.pass.panasonic.co.jp/p2ui/guest/TopLogin.do?lang=en&category=pav
  • Register up to three framing presets to accurately reproduce user-defined framings.
  • Group shots for framing multiple subjects, such as two- and three-shots.
  • Stable framing of moving subjects based on advanced human body detection and camera control for professional-level camera work, including consistent headroom.
  • Privacy-conscious shooting since body detection does not require personal information.
  • Subject-tracking autofocus using phase detection auto focus.
  • Seamless integration with Panasonic AW-RP150GJ & AW-RP60GJ remote camera controllers.
  • Tablet-ready GUI for touch-panel operation.

*  Product specification may change by time of release.

Investment

How to Add Physical Gold to Your Investment Portfolio

Investing in physical gold is one of the most effective ways to diversify your portfolio, protect against inflation, and secure your wealth during times of economic uncertainty. As a tangible asset, gold provides a sense of stability that many paper-based investments cannot offer. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting, adding physical gold to your investment strategy is a smart move. Here’s a guide on how to effectively integrate physical gold into your portfolio and the best ways to purchase gold bars.

Why Invest in Physical Gold?

Before diving into how to add gold to your portfolio, it’s important to understand why gold remains a popular choice for investors. Here are the key reasons:

  1. Hedge Against Inflation: Gold has historically maintained its value during periods of inflation. When paper currencies lose their purchasing power, the price of gold typically rises, providing a buffer for investors.
  2. Safe-Haven Asset: Gold is known for its role as a safe-haven asset during times of geopolitical instability or financial market volatility. Its price tends to remain steady or even increase when stock markets are in decline.
  3. Tangible Asset: Unlike stocks or bonds, which are purely digital or paper-based assets, gold is something you can hold in your hands. This tangibility gives investors a sense of security, as physical assets are less vulnerable to market manipulation or corporate mismanagement.

How to Add Physical Gold to Your Portfolio

When it comes to incorporating gold into your investment strategy, there are several key considerations and steps you need to take. Here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Decide on the Right Form of Gold

Physical gold comes in two main forms: coins and bars. Deciding which is right for you will depend on your investment goals, the amount of money you plan to invest, and your storage capabilities.

  • Gold Bars: If you’re looking to invest larger amounts, purchase gold bars for cost-efficiency. Bars come in various weights, from as small as 1 gram to as large as 1 kilogram. Buying in bulk can reduce the premium (the cost above the market value of gold) that you pay, making it a more economical choice for long-term investors.
  • Gold Coins: Coins like the British Sovereign or Krugerrand are smaller and often carry higher premiums due to their collectability. Coins may be easier to trade in smaller amounts, offering more liquidity than large bars. For first-time investors, coins are often an attractive option because of their historical and aesthetic value.

2. Choose a Reputable Dealer

Whether you plan to invest in coins or purchase gold bars, selecting a trustworthy dealer is essential. Look for dealers with strong reputations, positive customer reviews, and accreditation from industry bodies. Avoid unknown sources or deals that seem too good to be true, as counterfeit gold or poor-quality items can lead to significant losses.

Many investors now turn to online platforms, which offer convenient ways to buy gold securely. By purchasing gold from a trusted online dealer, you can browse a wide selection of products, compare prices easily, and enjoy a smooth, transparent buying process.

3. Understand the Costs Involved

It’s important to understand the costs associated with buying physical gold beyond the spot price. These include:

  • Premiums: Dealers typically add a premium to the market price to cover production, minting, and distribution costs. Premiums tend to be lower for larger bars than for coins, as coins often carry collectible value in addition to their gold content.
  • Storage: You’ll need to ensure that your gold is stored safely, especially if you’re purchasing larger quantities. Some investors opt for home safes, while others use professional storage services offered by dealers or banks. Keep in mind that professional storage may come with additional fees.
  • Insurance: If you store gold at home, it’s wise to insure it against theft or damage. Insurance costs should be factored into your overall investment plan.

4. Consider the Right Allocation

A common question for investors is how much of their portfolio should be allocated to gold. Many financial advisors recommend allocating 5-10% of your investment portfolio to gold. This allows you to benefit from gold’s protective qualities without overexposing your portfolio to any potential fluctuations in the gold market.

Keep in mind that gold is generally a long-term investment, so be prepared to hold onto it for several years to see the best results.

5. Stay Informed About Market Trends

Gold prices fluctuate based on market conditions, geopolitical factors, and investor demand. Before you purchase gold bars or coins, it’s important to stay informed about these trends. Monitoring market movements can help you time your purchase effectively, ensuring you buy when prices are favourable.

Many gold investors also follow central bank policies, as their decisions on interest rates and monetary policy can impact gold’s price. Having a good understanding of global economic trends will allow you to make more informed decisions about when to buy and sell.

Conclusion

Adding physical gold to your investment portfolio is a strategic way to diversify your assets, protect against inflation, and preserve wealth during uncertain times. By choosing to purchase gold bars or coins, you are investing in a tangible, secure asset that has proven its value for centuries. Remember to choose a reputable dealer, consider the costs involved, and determine the right allocation for your portfolio. With the right approach, gold can serve as a key component of a resilient and well-balanced investment strategy.

 

Accountancy, Business, Business News, Cardiff, Charity, Hospice News

Quantum Advisory scores big for Tŷ Hafan in football fundraising tournament

ONE of the UK’s leading actuarial and pension consulting firms, Quantum Advisory, took part in Tŷ Hafan’s Football Fives tournament and raised £3000 for the children’s hospice charity.

The firm rallied together to enter two teams into the round robin league which featured Champions League, Europa League and ECL stages, including knock-out phases, semi-finals and the final.

After standout performances amid tough competition, Quantum Advisory’s teams celebrated success in the top event: the Champions League. One of the firm’s teams won the league, while the other reached the quarter finals of the same competition.

The Football Fives tournament is held annually by Tŷ Hafan at Gôl Centres in Cardiff and was this year sponsored by V12 Retail Finance.

Tŷ Hafan, one of the UK’s leading paediatric palliative care charities, provides comfort and care to children and young people with life shortening conditions throughout Wales. The charity also provide support to parents and siblings, helping to create special memories and offering respite not only at the hospice but in the homes of the families or in hospital, completely free of charge.

Joining the fundraisers at the tournament was former Wales and Cardiff City player Danny Gabbidon who held a live Q&A session and presented a series of awards. Quantum received the top fundraisers award for a second year running, sharing the award this time with V12 Retail Finance. John Plenderleith, an Investment Consultant at Quantum Advisory, was also named ‘player of the match’ for his performance in the final.

Quantum Advisory is a longstanding supporter of Tŷ Hafan, with one of its first projects in 2016 winning them an engraved bronze apple to place on the hospice’s Gift Tree in recognition of reaching their ‘pay for a day goal’ of £11,000.

Since 2016, they have raised over £31,000 for the charity. Past events have included the Race to the Stones challenge, a fundraising ball and participation in Tŷ Hafan’s Christmas pantomime. In 2023, Team Quantum took part in Tŷ Hafan’s Football Fives tournament and received the ‘Best Tŷ Hafan Fundraisers’ trophy by former Cardiff City, Celtic, Crystal Palace and Welsh International midfielder, Joe Ledley, in recognition of their continued support.

Stuart Price, Actuary and Partner at Quantum Advisory, said: “We had a fantastic time at Tŷ Hafan’s Football Fives tournament this year. It was wonderful to see so many businesses coming together to raise funds for this incredible cause and thank you very much to those individuals that sponsored us, all the support is warmly received.

“Tŷ Hafan’s work is life changing and we are proud to have been supporting them for almost a decade. I would encourage anyone to find out more about Tŷ Hafan if you have not already and get involved with their next fundraising event.”

Sorrel Mayo, Corporate Senior Fundraiser at Tŷ Hafan, said: “When a child’s life will be short, Tŷ Hafan will walk alongside their family every step of the way – through life, death and beyond. We were delighted to see so many teams at our Football Fives fundraising tournament to help us to be able to do this.

“Quantum Advisory’s fantastic fundraising has contributed to this year’s event raising almost £15,000 which is truly incredible, and we are also extremely grateful to them for their ongoing support and enthusiasm.

“No parent ever imagines that their child’s life will be short. Sadly, this is the reality facing thousands of families in Wales. We can’t stop this happening, but together we can make sure that no one in Wales lives their child’s short life alone.”

For further information on Tŷ Hafan, visit www.tyhafan.org/. Donations can also be made at https://www.justgiving.com/page/tyhafanfiveaside.

Quantum Advisory provides pension and employee benefits services to employers, scheme trustees and members, and has offices in Cardiff, Amersham, Birmingham and London. For more information, visit www.quantumadvisory.co.uk.

News

Innovative business support and £3m landmark boosting trade and economy in West Wales

A RAFT of innovative business support is boosting trade and the economy in West Wales.

And nowhere more than Cardigan, where access to guidance and funding via Antur Cymru Enterprise has provided start-ups and entrepreneurs with a platform to grow in past months.

The South Ceredigion Local Business Support project, delivered by Ceredigion County Council via the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, has had a positive impact on ventures looking to develop their strategies and products.

As well as advice and expertise, small businesses have been given space at the town’s historic Guildhall market, which reopened during the summer following a £3m revamp.

Among them were Amaze Me 3D, Under the Laurel handmade jewellery, and The Craft Wife of Teifi.

Clive Davies, a Project Manager for Antur Cymru’s Smart Busnes programme, said they are already reaping the rewards.

“The Guildhall has the potential to be a destination space for Cardigan, and I’m sure will attract a lot of footfall,” he added.

“It’s great to see their progress in taking an idea through to their own trading space and business.

“This Antur Cymru project has been a big support to them and others, and I’m so pleased they had the confidence to relocate to the market, which as it develops will benefit them even further.”

As well as offering a space to trade, advisors are delivering training workshops and one-to-one advice to existing stall holders at the Guildhall.

In addition to the South Ceredigion Local Business Support project and Smart Busnes, local start-ups have capitalised on the Cynnal y Cardi Fund – also delivered by Ceredigion County Council via the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund – which aims to support and engage local people, businesses and communities in delivering sustainable solutions to address some of the economic, social and environmental challenges facing the Ceredigion area.

Beverley Winn, owner of The Craft Wife of Teifi, has now based her sustainable crafts venture at the Guildhall, as well as receiving advice on visual merchandising and administrative tasks.

“Without the encouragement and ‘hand holding’ throughout the process I wouldn’t have had the self-belief and confidence to launch and run my little business,” she said.

“I only started three months ago at the Antur Cymru trading space in Cardigan and have now relocated, which has enabled me to continue running things – the rent is affordable – and engage with the local community, especially neurodivergent young adults who are highly creative.

“I buy and sell their items through my shop, and they also help with serving customers and learning new communication skills, which has had a positive impact on their self-esteem and confidence.”

“For me, that is a mark of success, rather than any monetary gain.”

Another to join the Guildhall was Loren Nash, who founded Under the Laurel in 2021 after learning to make bespoke jewellery – and later painted designs for greeting cards and prints – during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I would not have been able to do this had it not been for the encouragement and support of Antur Cymru and the low risk of trying a new product in the shop initially,” she said.

“And now, being in the Guildhall has allowed me to have a permanent base for local customers and opened my business up to the tourist trade. It’s the first time I’ve been able to see my products in a space that I decorated and designed. It makes me so happy every time I walk in there.”

Loren added: “A constant challenge for me is my health. I have a disability called Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, which is unfortunately degenerative, so I am always constantly adapting how I work.

“But that won’t stop me working towards my goal – with the support of my partner, Rob – to have a shop on the high street where I can set aside a percentage of my profits to pour into free art workshops, where people can turn up to create, relax and possibly learn a new skill.

“Antur Cymru afforded me the opportunity to grow my product base and gave me the belief in myself that I could run my business from a bricks and mortar location, and I’ll always be thankful for that.”

Others in Cardigan to have accessed the services of Antur Cymru this year are Theo Latham, who produces stylish card wallets made from Italian leather; Andrea Edwards, whose Amaze Me 3D venture uses 3D printers to build model animals and dinosaurs from sustainable materials; Three Little Pigs, which sells high-end crafts and furniture online, and Neil Croucher, whose Mellangell brand is growing in popularity, creating stained-glass art, jewellery, candles and more.

For more on Antur Cymru, visit the website www.anturcymru.org.uk and follow them on social media at @AnturCymruWales.

Alternatively, call 01239 710238 or email info@anturcymru.org.uk.

Outdoor Sports

Press Release: Farmfoods European Senior Masters Sets Record Prize Pool For 2024 Instalment

The Farmfoods European Senior Masters has set a tournament-record prize pot ahead of the return of its seventh instalment this November.
The shared prize has been raised from €250,000 to €375,000 for this year’s edition, the highest amount ever recorded since its inception, showcasing the growth and importance of the tournament in recent years.
The infamous competition, an integral part of the annual Legends Tour, will take place at La Manga Club, Spain, from November 7th – 10th. It will be hosted for the seventh consecutive year by three-time European Tour winner and former Ryder Cup star Peter Baker.
It offers amateurs the opportunity to play with, partner and watch a plethora of the Legends Tour’s golfers inside the ropes. The competition sees professionals compete alongside the amateurs while recording their individual scores over three days of golfing action.
A number of renowned professionals have already been confirmed for the event, with Ian Woosnam OBE, Paul Lawrie OBE, Michael Campbell, Thomas Levet, Michael Jonzon, and last year’s reigning champion Patrick Sjöland all set to compete for pole position.
There are also a number of newcomers to the upcoming competition, including Spanish player Carlos Balmaseda, who is so far enjoying a successful 2024 Legends Tour campaign. Further names will be announced with entry closing in early October.
The final day’s play will be just professionals, with the leading player crowned Farmfoods European Senior Masters champion, winning the first-place prize of €56,000.
Baker told event owners Champions (UK) plc: “I’m delighted to be hosting the event at the wonderful La Manga club, it’s such a great venue.
“For the pros and amateurs, the quality of the professional field just gets better each year and I’m sure we are going to have a great week in the sunshine.”
John Hayes, CEO of Champions (UK) plc, also said: “The Farmfoods European Senior Masters is always a date we look forward to in the calendar each year. La Manga club is such a historic venue for golf, combined with the beautiful hotel which is the only Grand Hyatt in Spain, and we’re honoured to get to play there as always.
“Farmfoods are such brilliant sponsors for these events – everyone from the professionals to the amateurs and crowds have such a great time each year. I can’t wait to see a number of familiar faces out there, and we hope to see as many spectators there as possible too.”
Viewers will be able to watch highlights of the competition on Sky Sports Golf following its conclusion.
For more information regarding the event, or to play this year, audiences should get in touch at shayes@championsukplc.com or on +44 7557 133 880
About La Manga Club
La Manga Club is a sports and leisure resort, located 15 minutes from Cartagena, in the region of Murcia, covering an area of 560 hectares, three times the extension of the Principality of Monaco.
Located in a privileged environment, next to the regional park of Calblanque and the Mediterranean Sea, the resort has a privileged climate and conditions of security and privacy.
Among its facilities, La Manga Club has:
  • A five-star Grand Hyatt La Manga Club & Resort
  • Three 18-hole golf courses: Real Golf La Manga Club
  • A newly renovated The Racquets Club Tennis Centre with 28 tennis courts, 20 of them clay, 7 paddle tennis courts, and a gym with all amenities.
  • A Nuevo Well & Fitness Centre
  • Eight FIFA size football fields (including the 3 of the sports city of FC Cartagena)
  • Diversity of bars and restaurants among which is its famous Cove, open to the Mediterranean Sea
  • Residential community of more than 2200 luxury homes
Awards, Newport, News, Wales News

Lucky Seven for ICC Wales as it Celebrates Event Industry Award Nominations

ICC Wales continues to shine as a leading force in the business events industry, with its team and venue receiving multiple prestigious award nominations.

 

The Association of British Professional Conference Organisers (ABPCO) revealed the shortlist for its coveted ABPCO Excellence Awards, with ICC Wales’ Danielle Bounds, Sales Director and Chloe Turner, Assistant Association Sales Manager shortlisted in the Guiding Star and Rising Star categories, respectively.

 

Danielle, who was recently named Personality of the Year at the M&IT Awards, has been nominated as a finalist for this latest award thanks to her passion, drive and enthusiasm for inspiring others as well as her commitment to championing Martyn’s Law to improve public safety at event venues.

 

Chloe has this year been promoted to Assistant Association Sales Manager at ICC Wales and has really impressed colleagues and clients with her enthusiasm, creativity and commitment to excellence.

 

The winners of the ABPCO Excellence Awards will be announced on 12 – 13 December at the Winter Gardens Blackpool.

 

This news comes shortly after the venue’s shortlisting in five categories in the Meetings Industry Association’s (MIA) miaList, which recognises outstanding individuals and teams who go above and beyond to make an impact on the meetings and events sector.

 

In addition to being a finalist in the Venue of the Year (over 300 delegates) category, the venue’s sales and marketing and events and operations teams were nominated in their respective categories. Chloe Turner was also shortlisted for mia’s Rising Star Award whilst ICC Wales’ Head of Sales, Amy Phillips, was shortlisted for the coveted Individual Award.

 

The miaList 2024 awards ceremony will take place on 07 November 2024, at the Hilton Liverpool City Centre.

 

Speaking on her nominations Chloe Turner, Assistant Association Sales Manager said: “Being recognised as a finalist for the Rising Star award at both the ABPCO Excellence Awards and the miaList is an incredible honour. I’m thrilled not only for myself but for the entire ICC Wales team, whose collective effort has led to multiple nominations.

 

“This recognition underscores the exceptional work of our sales, marketing, and events teams, and highlights the vibrant and dynamic environment we’re fortunate to be a part of. It’s exciting to see our venue and colleagues celebrated, and I’m grateful for the opportunities at ICC Wales that inspire me to grow and contribute to our shared success.”

 

The full shortlists can be found on the mia website here and the ABPCO website here.

Business

Aspiring Welsh entrepreneurs urged to apply for cutting-edge Start-Up Accelerator Programme

Wales’ brightest entrepreneurial minds are being urged to seize an opportunity to fast-track their business ideas. The Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme is now accepting applications for its innovative 10-week immersive Start-Up Accelerator Programme, set to launch in January 2025.

The Business Wales Start-Up Accelerator Programme will provide a series of virtual sessions to deliver a comprehensive, rapid start-up experience. Participants will receive step-by-step guidance on turning their ideas into fully operational businesses, with tailored support designed to help them acquire paying customers and develop a sustainable business model.

This accelerator is open to all Wales-based aspiring entrepreneurs with a pre-revenue business idea. The business idea should aim to achieve over £1 million in annual turnover and create ten full-time jobs by 2029, with potential export opportunities. Support is also available to help overcome barriers to participating in the programme.

The cutting-edge programme will also leverage the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance creativity and market research, reduce time to market, and boost efficiency.

The programme offers a blend of webinars, masterclasses, and one-to-one mentoring sessions conducted by business role models and business growth experts. Networking is a cornerstone of the programme, with peer-to-peer sessions designed to facilitate business growth and offer invaluable insights. Participants will also benefit from PR opportunities designed to raise business profiles and drive rapid growth, with the programme culminating in a high-profile awards event.

Richard Morris, Programme Director of the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme, said:

“The Start-Up Accelerator Programme is uniquely positioned to fast-track business development by providing valuable, tailored learning opportunities from industry experts.

“This programme provides the tools and expertise needed to navigate the challenges of starting a business and will help participants build a sustainable support network, which is crucial for long-term growth. Leveraging AI will equip participants with cutting-edge digital tools and techniques to thrive in today’s competitive business landscape.

“I am excited to see the next wave of Welsh entrepreneurs emerge from this programme, ready to make their local and global mark.”

Richard Selby, Chair of the Institute of Directors (IoD) Wales and a judge for the accelerator programme’s awards, said:

“Wales has always been a nation of innovators and entrepreneurs, with a rich history of turning bold ideas into thriving enterprises.

“The entrepreneurial spirit here is incredibly strong, and the Business Wales Start-Up Accelerator Programme offers a fantastic opportunity for aspiring business leaders to harness that spirit and turn their ideas into successful companies.”

Applications for the programme must be submitted by Monday, October 28th, 2024. The accelerator will commence on Tuesday, January 7th, 2025, and run until Friday, March 14th, 2025.

Anyone interested in taking part should register their interest by clicking the link below:

https://events.newable.co.uk/events/1288/business-wales-accelerated-growth-programme-start-up-accelerator

Ends

 

Media enquiries:

Sara Robinson, Business Wales AGP

Email: sara.robinson@businesswalesagp.org

Phone: +44 (0)7720 634537

 

Notes to editors:

 

This Start-Up Accelerator is part of the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme, funded by Welsh Government. If your business is not ready for this level of growth, Business Wales offers a wide range of business start-up and business growth advice and guidance. To find out more and to speak to a specialist advisor, call 03000 6 03000 or visit https://businesswales.gov.wales/contact-us.

 

 

 

Cyber

Infinidat Kicks Off Cybersecurity Awareness Month with Campaign to Broaden the Visibility and Adoption of Enterprise Cyber Resilience

Infinidat, a leading provider of enterprise storage solutions, marked the beginning of Cybersecurity Awareness Month by kicking off a campaign to raise awareness about the critical need for enterprises to increase their cyber resilience with next-generation data protection and recovery capabilities in the battle against cyberattacks. Throughout the month of October, Infinidat will be contributing to awareness-building efforts across its social media channels about the emergence of cyber resilient storage as the last line of defense against ransomware and malware.

“As we embark into Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we’re excited to help enterprises better understand how to incorporate a cyber-centric, recovery-focused strategy with our InfiniSafe capabilities into their overall cybersecurity approach,” said Eric Herzog, CMO at Infinidat. “Cyberattacks have evolved to increasingly target enterprise storage infrastructure. However, the combination of cyber resilience and cybersecurity closes the gap and vastly improves the ability to mitigate the impact of cyberattacks, especially ransomware. Broader awareness of best practices in cyber resilience and cyber recovery will be one of the crowning achievements of this month dedicated to cybersecurity.”

Protecting data is one of the most critical actions an IT team must do in their data centre today. Expectations for restoring data and backing up data at multi-petabyte scale have changed. IT teams need to increase next-generation data protection capabilities. There needs to be data integrity and high reliability with 100% availability, which is what Infinidat provides. Best practices require an enterprise to ensure data validity and near-instantaneous recovery of primary storage and backup repositories, regardless of the size. This accelerates digital disaster recovery when a cyberattack happens.

“Cybersecurity is established as a board-level priority. Given that, it is the data that attackers are after. CIOs and CISOs have begun to critically evaluate the cyber resilience of their organisation’s enterprise storage implementations. With this in mind, the need for cyber resilience has established new table-stakes criteria within the storage infrastructure. Strategic planning for capabilities, like Infinidat’s InfiniSafe Automated Cyber Protection that helps to mitigate data loss and downtime resulting from a cyber incident, has become critical,” said Krista Macomber, Research Director, Cybersecurity at The Futurum Group.

“We’re seeing a growing focus on cyber resilience and rapid recovery in enterprise data infrastructure, especially against threats like ransomware,” stated Bob Elliott, VP Strategic Alliances, at Mainline Information Systems. “Adopting a recovery-first strategy helps protect businesses from massive cyberattacks. As IT leaders recognise the importance of next-gen data protection, we expect increased adoption of these solutions. In today’s security-driven landscape, boosting cyber resilience is essential for safeguarding storage systems.”

Core pillars of next generation data protection in a cyber-first architecture include: immutable snapshots, logical air-gapping, a fenced forensic environment, and near-instantaneous cyber recovery. These dimensions of cyber resilience are available within Infinidat’s core storage operating system. Moreover, the cyber resilient capabilities that complement, utilise, extend and enable these pillars include cyber detection and automated cyber protection.

InfiniSafe® – The Answer for Enterprise-grade Cyber Resilience

Infinidat’s award-winning InfiniSafe suite provides extensive cyber resilience capabilities, including InfiniSafe Cyber Detection and InfiniSafe Automated Cyber Protection (ACP) along with the stack of all the core pillars of next-generation data protection. InfiniSafe provides secure, end-to-end capabilities to orchestrate with existing security solutions to detect, contain, mitigate and recover from a cyberattack.

InfiniSafe ACP is an early-warning system that is seamlessly integrated into an enterprise’s existing cybersecurity applications and systems. ACP triggers creating immutable snapshots when an event or threat is detected. Detecting a threat before it has an opportunity to propagate is key to reducing the threat window.

To get a known clean copy of data after an attack, InfiniSafe Cyber Detection is needed to validate the integrity of the data, using powerful AI and ML-based scanning engines. Comprehensive machine learning detects ransomware and malware, using 200+ content analytics points with up to 99.99% accuracy.

In addition, designed to deliver industry-leading application performance, InfiniBox®, InfiniBox™ SSA and InfiniGuard® are used extensively as backup targets for many data protection scenarios, backing up critical data assets across applications and virtual and containerised infrastructures. Whether it’s for primary storage or secondary storage for backup and data protection, Infinidat has all the use cases covered with InfiniBox as a target and InfiniGuard as a purpose-built backup appliance.

To keep track of Infinidat throughout Cybersecurity Awareness Month, follow the company on X and LinkedIn. To read the company blog, click here.

About Infinidat

Infinidat provides enterprises and service providers with a platform-native primary and secondary storage architecture that delivers comprehensive data services based on InfiniVerse®. This unique platform delivers outstanding IT operating benefits, support for modern workloads across on-premises and hybrid multi-cloud environments. Infinidat’s cyber resilient-by-design infrastructure, consumption-based performance, 100% availability, and cyber security guaranteed SLAs align with enterprise IT and business priorities. Infinidat’s award-winning platform-native data services and acclaimed white glove service are continuously recommended by customers, as recognized by Gartner® Peer Insights reviews. For more information, visit www.infinidat.com.

 

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Sapna Capoor

Director of Global Communications

scapoor@infinidat.com I Mobile: +44 (0) 7789684159

Appointments, Coaching, Coaching and Mentoring, News

The OCM appoints Kathryn Kernick as Managing Director of OCM Enable to boost growth

Leading professional coaching and mentoring firm, The OCM, has enhanced its leadership team with the appointment of Kathryn Kernick as Managing Director of OCM Enable to support and grow the business.

Kathryn brings over 25 years of leadership, coaching, and talent development experience, and has worked extensively with both UK and international clients to drive leadership excellence and organisational growth. She joins from the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL), a top-ranked, global, nonprofit provider of leadership development and a pioneer in global leadership research where she worked for over 10 years, most recently as Director of Coaching for Europe.

Prior to this Kathryn was Director of Client Solutions, at Korn Ferry, a global management consultancy firm, working with Boards, CEOs, Chief Human Resources Officers and Chief Learning Officers to align their talent strategy with their business strategy.

 

Commenting on her new role Kathryn said: “I am delighted to join The OCM, a purpose-driven organisation, with a strong portfolio of UK and international clients in many sectors including FMCG, Manufacturing, Finance, Healthcare and Technology, as well as a rich heritage of pioneering leadership coaching and mentoring. The OCM was founded in Oxford in 1998 when leadership coaching was just emerging as a critical need, it has been at the forefront of leadership coaching and mentoring ever since.

“I’m a passionate believer in the power of diverse perspectives and experiences to drive organisational success, combined with a dedication to excellence, innovation, and meaningful impact. I look forward to building on the company’s legacy and delivering coaching and mentoring programmes that help individuals, teams, and organisations to thrive.”

 

Ed Parsloe, CEO, The OCM, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Kathryn as our new Managing Director of OCM Enable. Kathryn has had an impressive career to date and her rich experience in leadership coaching and business development skills will be a real asset to our business and our clients. We look forward to her helping us expand and strengthen our UK and global presence.”

 

For more information on The OCM visit: www.theocm.co.uk/

News

BLUESTONE UNVEILS THREE-HECTARE SOLAR FARM TO POWER NATIONAL PARK RESORT

Bluestone National Park Resort has this week launched a three-hectare solar farm which will power a third of the resort.  

The launch is a significant milestone for the holiday park – voted 3rd best in the UK for the second time running by Which? – and forms an integral part of Bluestone’s £30 million investment strategy to expand its facilities while championing sustainability projects to further protect and enhance the local area. 

The solar farm setup, with a lifespan of 40 years, aims to secure the long-term viability of Bluestone. Over a year, the solar farm is expected to generate around 3,000 mwh of electricity which could power up to 1,200 homes. It comprises of 6,200 solar panels and is expected to save around 675 tonnes of greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere a year – the equivalent of taking 329 diesel vehicles off the road for a year.  

Not only is Bluestone reducing its carbon footprint, but they’ve recently reported their highest summer sales figures since opening in 2008, proving that sustainable initiatives don’t come at the cost of profitability – in fact, they’re enhancing it.  

Sustainability is becoming an increasing “must” for consumers when booking a no-fly break. As Mintel’s 2024 data reveals, travellers are increasingly favouring convenience and responsible environmental credentials while booking a holiday, with six in 10 prioritising sustainability as a critical factor in their decision-making process.  

Bluestone’s director of sustainability, Marten Lewis, said:  

 “We’re pleased to open the solar farm. With the project approved over 18 months ago, the team have been working hard to ensure it’s up and running by the end of summer. 

“This contributes to our wider commitment to sustainable development, as we drive down our carbon emissions. Of course, one of our main aims is to successfully balance tourism with sustainability, and our record summer figures show that they can in fact go hand in hand. 

“The solar farm complements the existing initiatives onsite, including a food recycling scheme, staff-commute bus services, onsite electric buggies for guest transport, and using locally sourced biomass to heat the Blue Lagoon Water Park.  

“As we work hard to achieve net zero status by 2040, the solar farm is a key milestone in our work to reduce our carbon footprint, foster a positive impact on the environment and ensure that we are true to our ambitions in response to the nature and climate emergencies.” 

The solar project was undertaken by suppliers, JJP Services Ltd, Hardens, Hornbill, Ability Power and Tillott Renewable Contracting and in collaboration with the National Grid.  

For more information or to book your Bluestone break, visit www.bluestonewales.com.  

Source: ‘UK Sustainability in Travel Market Report 2024’ by Mintel