TMR Research: December 2014

Monday, 29 December 2014

Market Survey Reveals Consumers Above 55 Years Least Likely to Have Regular Skincare Routine for Anti-Ageing

Market research firm Canedean recently conducted a consumer survey that reveals consumers aged 55 years and over are lease likely to implement a regular skincare routine geared toward anti-ageing. According to the survey, about 20% of all consumers in the United Kingdom were concerned about their skin showing signs of ageing. However, of these, only one third have implemented a regular anti-ageing care routine.

The survey saw that among all age groups, those in the 55 years+ bracket were least likely to take any steps to follow a regular routine to take measures against skin ageing. To be precise, over 50% of consumers in this age bracket said that they have not taken any steps to address their concerns about skin showing signs of ageing. Over 2,000 consumers above the age group of 18 years participated in the survey. The results of this research also show that the skincare products and solutions industry per se is laying too much emphasis on attracting young adult consumers (females) and are missing out opportunities that exist with consumers aged 55 years and over.

According to an analyst with Canadean, the study finds that manufacturers often fail to get the message right while addressing older consumers in the anti-ageing skincare market. While this group is at a stage in their life where they are at ease with their age, they do not necessarily feel as though they are old yet, less still as someone who would be desperate to be called young. The analyst said that if companies are to gain success in this segment, they would need to provide inclusive anti-ageing skincare products that offer well-groomed skin packaged with the feeling of attractiveness rather than positioning age as a weight that needs to be unburdened.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Market, Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate Industry and Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate is Expected to Reach USD 9.35 billion in 2020

A New Market Report Titled “Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Market (SLS Liquid and SLS Dry), Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate Industry (SLES) and Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate (LAS) for Detergents & Cleaners, Personal Care, Textile & Leather, Oilfield Chemicals and Other Applications - Global Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast, 2014 - 2020,” which observes that the global SLS, SLES & LAS market demand was valued at USD 6.60 billion in 2013 and is expected to reach USD 9.35 billion by 2020, expanding at a CAGR of 5.1% from 2014 to 2020.

Increasing sodium lauryl sulfate market (SLS), sodium lauryl ether sulfate market (SLES) and linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) from detergents & cleaners and personal care industries is expected to drive the global SLS, SLES & LAS market in the next five years. However, hazardous effects of SLS & SLES on human skin are projected to hamper market growth. Furthermore, the shift towards bio-based surfactants, especially in developed countries, is likely to restrain the growth of the linear alkylbenzene sulfonate market in the near future. However, new applications and production methods for these surfactants are expected to offer immense opportunities for manufacturers in the industry.

Browse the full Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Market, Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate Industry and Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate report with TOC:

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sodium-lauryl-sulfate-market.html

Linear alkylbenzene sulfonate emerged as the biggest product segment of the global SLS, SLES & LAS market in 2013, accounting for a market share of 76.6%. Linear alkylbenzene sulfonate is a cheaper option and possesses good emulsifying, cleansing and foaming properties. Hence, it is widely used in household detergents & industrial cleaners. In terms of volume, sodium lauryl ether sulfate is projected to grow at a moderate rate owing to its milder nature as compared to sodium lauryl sulfate. In terms of volume and revenue, SLS is anticipated to grow at a sluggish rate during the forecast period owing to its adverse effects on human skin. There is high demand for SLS liquid as it is easily soluble and relatively cheaper.

Detergents & cleaners application was the largest consumer of SLS, SLES and LAS in 2013. In terms of volume, detergents & cleaners application was followed by personal care, which is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% from 2014 to 2020. Sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium lauryl ether sulfate are predominantly used in personal care applications due to their high skin penetration properties. However, demand for sodium lauryl sulfate in the personal care application is estimated to decrease in the next few years due to the toxic effects of sodium lauryl sulfate on human skin. Other emerging applications of SLS, SLES & LAS include oilfield chemicals, textile, leather, plastics, etc.

Browse the full press release of this report:

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/sodium-lauryl-sulfate-market.htm

Asia Pacific dominated the global SLS, SLES & LAS market in 2013, in terms of volume and revenue. Increasing production of detergents & personal care products has been driving the market in Asia Pacific over the past few years. Additionally, rising disposable income in Middle East, Brazil, etc. is boosting Rest of the World market. Rest of the World emerged as the second-largest consumer of SLS, SLES and LAS in 2013. The market in Europe and North America has reached maturation; hence, these regions are expected to grow at a sluggish rate during the forecast period

The market is highly fragmented with no clear leader in the market. Major players in the market include Croda International, Rhodia SA, Solvay S.A, The Dow Chemical Company, Stepan Company, Clariant Corporation, Sasol Limited, BASF SE, Akzo Nobel N.V. and Oxiteno among others.

This report segments the global SLS, SLES & LAS market as follows:

SLS, SLES & LAS Market - Product Segment Analysis

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
Sodium lauryl sulfate liquid (SLS liquid)
Sodium lauryl sulfate dry (SLS dry)
Sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES)
Linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS)

SLS, SLES & LAS Market - Application Analysis

Detergents & cleaners
Personal care
Textile & leather
Oilfield chemicals
Others (Including Paints & Coatings, Plastics, Agricultural Chemicals, etc.)

SLS, SLES & LAS Market - Regional Analysis

North America
Europe
China
Rest of Asia Pacific
Rest of the World

About Us

Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The company’s exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMR’s experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.

TMR’s data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With extensive research and analysis capabilities, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques to develop distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.

Contact

Ms. Sheela AK
State Tower,
90 State Street,
Suite 700,
Albany NY - 12207
United States
USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453
Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com
Website: http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/

Friday, 26 December 2014

U.S. Antimicrobial Plastics Market is Expected to Reach USD 1,227.4 million by 2020

Transparency Market Research has published a new market report titled “Antimicrobial Plastics Market for Electronic & Consumer Appliances, Personal Care, Packaging, Automotive, Building & Construction, Healthcare and Other Applications – U.S. Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast, 2014 – 2020”. According to the report, the U.S. antimicrobial plastics market was valued at USD 662.3 million in 2013 and is anticipated to reach USD 1,227.4 million by 2020, expanding at a CAGR of 9.3% during the forecast period from 2014 to 2020. In terms of volume, the antimicrobial plastics market in the U.S. stood at 100,062.1 tons in 2013.

Browse the full report U.S. Antimicrobial Plastics Market:

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/us-antimicrobial-plastics-market.html

Antimicrobial plastics help reduce deterioration and increase the lifespan of medical products. Thus, growth in the medical devices market in the U.S. is likely to be one of the primary factors driving demand for antimicrobial plastics in the country over the next few years. Furthermore, high rate of hospital-acquired infections is projected to boost market growth. Rising demand for antimicrobial plastics in packaging and subsequent growth of the packaging market in the U.S. is estimated to fuel market growth. However, volatility in prices of raw materials is expected to hamper antimicrobial plastic market growth, as it adversely affects profit margins of manufacturers and increases the overall costs of the already-expensive plastics. Product innovation, an area of focus of several manufacturers, is anticipated to open up new opportunities for market growth.

Healthcare was the largest application segment, accounting for approximately 44% of the market share in 2013. Additionally, it is estimated to be the fastest growing segment during the forecast period, led by rising demand for antimicrobial solutions in the medical devices market. Furthermore, higher number of patients with hospital-acquired infections is projected to augment demand for antimicrobial plastics. Packaging and personal care segments are likely to witness above-average growth during the forecast period. Automotive and building & construction are niche market segments of the antimicrobial plastics market owing to the high cost of the plastics.

The antimicrobial plastics market is fragmented in nature due to the presence of a number of manufacturers. Additionally, there is a low threat of backward or forward integration of antimicrobial plastic manufacturing companies in the market owing to the complex manufacturing and capital intensive nature of the market. Certain companies such as BASF and Bayer are integrated across two or more stages of the antimicrobial plastics market. Key players in the market include The Dow Chemical Company, Lonza, BASF, AkzoNobel, Bayer, DuPont and Sherwin-Williams. Product innovation and development of cheaper antimicrobial solutions are the points of focus of the manufacturers. Market share of these companies is estimated to decrease in the next few years due to increasing demand for antimicrobial plastics. The report segments the U.S. antimicrobial plastics market as follows:

Get full Press Release of this report:

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/us-antimicrobial-plastics-market.htm

U.S. Antimicrobial Plastics Market – Application Analysis

Electronic & consumer appliances
Personal care
Packaging
Automotive
Building & construction
Healthcare
Others (Includes sportswear, waste bins, etc.)

About Us

Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The company’s exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMR’s experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.

TMR’s data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With extensive research and analysis capabilities, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques to develop distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.

Contact

Ms. Sheela AK

State Tower,

90 State Street,

Suite 700,

Albany NY - 12207

United States

USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453

Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com

Website: http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/

Fluoroscopy and Mobile C-arms Market is Expected to Reach USD 2.08 Billion Globally in 2019

According to a new market report published by Transparency Market Research “Process Spectroscopy Market (Technology Types - Near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and Fourier Transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy) Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast, 2013 - 2019,” the market was valued at USD 714.5 million in 2012 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% from 2013 to 2019. North America was the largest contributor to Global process spectroscopy market in 2012. Asia Pacific region is expected to be the fastest growing market for process spectroscopy during the forecast period with a CAGR of 8.7% from 2013 to 2019. The rapid growth of process spectroscopy technologies in pharmaceutical and food and agriculture industries in Asia Pacific region, particularly in countries like China, Japan and India is driving the growth of process spectroscopy market in Asia Pacific region.

Advancement in technologies, demand for matching international quality standards and the cost and time saving approach of companies in various industries has increased the usage of process spectroscopy. Additionally, the implementation of process analytical technologies for pharmaceutical industry by FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in the United States is expected to fuel the growth of process spectroscopy market in North America region.

Browse the full report Process Spectroscopy Market:

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/process-spectroscopy-market.html

Increasing adoption of Raman spectroscopy in pharmaceutical and food and agriculture industry is expected to raise the market share of Raman spectroscopy in global market. Raman process spectroscopy held 17.1% share of the total process spectroscopy market in 2012.

North America led the global process spectroscopy market in 2012 with the share of around 49% of the global market. This is mainly due to the presence of dominating players in these regions those are developing the products for various industries including oil and gas, pharmaceutical, polymer, chemicals and food and agriculture among others.

The global market for process spectroscopy was dominated by leading players such as Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. Bruker Corporation, Buchi Labortechnik AG, and Andor technologies which collectively accounted for more than 40% share in 2012. Other important players in the market include Foss A/S, Danaher Corporation, Shimadzu Corporation, Yokogawa Electric Corporation, Sartorius AG, Kett Electric Laboratory, Horiba Limited and ABB Limited among others. The competitive rivalry among these companies is high and is expected to remain the same over forecast period.

Browse the Press Release of this report:

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/process-spectroscopy-market.htm

The report studies the global process spectroscopy market, and provides estimates in terms of revenue (USD million) from 2012 to 2019. Market estimates are provided on the basis of technology, end-use industry and geography. The market has been segmented as follows:

Market Segmentation of Global Process Spectroscopy Market:

Process Spectroscopy Market, by Technology

Near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy
Raman spectroscopy
Fourier Transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy

Process Spectroscopy Market, by End-use Industry

Polymer industry
Oil and gas industry
Pharmaceutical industry
Food and agriculture industry
Chemical industry
Other industries (medical diagnostic, forensic and environmental)

Process Spectroscopy Market, by Geography

North America
Europe
Asia Pacific
RoW

About Us

Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMR’s experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.

Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.

Contact

Ms. Sheela AK
State Tower,
90 State Street,
Suite 700,
Albany NY - 12207
United States
USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453
Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com
Website: http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/

Process Spectroscopy Market Expected to Reach USD 1,179.6 Million in 2019: Transparency Market Research

Browse the full report Process Spectroscopy Market: http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/process-spectroscopy-market.html

Browse the Press Release of this report:

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/process-spectroscopy-market.htm

Market Segmentation of Global Process Spectroscopy Market:

Process Spectroscopy Market, by Technology

Near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy
Raman spectroscopy
Fourier Transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy

Process Spectroscopy Market, by End-use Industry

Polymer industry
Oil and gas industry
Pharmaceutical industry
Food and agriculture industry
Chemical industry
Other industries (medical diagnostic, forensic and environmental)

Process Spectroscopy Market, by Geography

North America
Europe
Asia Pacific
RoW

‘Make in India’ Review Meeting on the Cards; Indian States to be Key Stakeholders in the Project

India turned the focus on its manufacturing sector with the launch of the ‘Make in India’ campaign earlier in 2014; the program aims to bring more business to India’s manufacturing sector. According to latest reports, the government is now set to hold a review meeting that will track success till date, and create an action plan that will put the specifics in place for implementing the Make in India program. The day-long workshop is slated to be held on December 29. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the meeting, a number of industry stalwarts are expected to be present during the workshop, which is being facilitated by the Commerce and Industry Ministry.

On the cards is an address by Arun Jaitley, India’s Finance Minister, and Nirmala Sitharaman, the minister of Commerce and Industry. In addition to these addresses by politicos, the meeting will also feature sector-specific discussions with respective representatives and industry leaders. Besides industry bigwigs, senior officials from states and chief secretaries of various departments will also be in attendance.

The Make in India campaign was launched in September 2014 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with the key aim of attracting foreign investments. The objective of the campaign has been to position India as a global manufacturing hub, much on the lines of its rival neighbor, China. The program has identified over 25 sectors that will potentially benefit from higher investment dollars. These include: Automobiles, textiles, pharmaceuticals, IT and chemicals. According to those close to the event, a specific plan of action will likely be put in place during the workshop, and a program will be created with various state governments. According to these officials, the main stakeholders for the implementation of this project would be the respective state governments.

The manufacturing sector in India currently contributes about 17% to the economy. By 2022, with the help of this program, the government wants to take this figure to 25%.

Wednesday, 24 December 2014

Sultanate of Oman Needs to Reform Restrictive Private Sector Labor Regulations: Minister of Oil & Gas

Oman—the Arabian Gulf’s largest oil producer outside of the OPEC club—has a reputation for being generous to its public sector employees, giving them lavish benefits, relaxed working hours, and pay packages. However, the country now finds itself faced with the need to address its restrictive labor policies and reform the benefits it bestows upon public sector employees if it has to attract more participation from the private sector. Employing young Omanis to harness the most out of its labor force to stay ahead of the energy industry will be a priority, the Omani Sultanate's Oil and Gas minister Dr. Mohammed Al Rumhy was recently quoted as saying the Gulf Intelligence Special Research Report focusing on Oman.

The government has made several efforts to strengthen its private sector, which constitutes about 60% of the overall labor market in the Sultanate of Oman. However, the impact of the private sector in Oman has not been very impressive on the overall national employment figures.

The country’s Ministry of National Economy said that only a third of all employed Omanis are currently reported to be working in the private sector. This means that the majority of Omanis are employed in the public sector – that’s because the benefits in this sector are extremely attractive with workers enjoying other luxuries such as less working hours and a comfortable work environment. On the contrary, the private sector calls for higher working hours with job security being a concern if the overall economic conditions are choppy. However, the government will have to go to the root of the problem and address restrictive regulations that exist in the private sector, such as minimum wage slabs. This has discouraged a number of private players from opting for Omani nationals for employment.

This fact was reiterated by the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report for 2014-15, which stated that the restrict labor mandates are proving to be the greatest hindrance for those wanting to do business in the Sultanate of Oman.

Tuesday, 23 December 2014

LG Forays into Chinese Market with Ovulation Induction Product, Follitrope

LG Life Sciences Ltd. announced on Wednesday that it was launching an independently-developed ovulation induction product called Follitrope in the Chinese market. The product will also be introduced in Japan. This move was marked with the signing of an exclusive sales contract between LG Life Sciences Ltd. and Weijian Pharma Group, a player in the China pharmaceuticals market.

According to the company, Follitrope is designed to boost follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). The treatment has been designed using recombinant DNA techniques developed by LG Life Sciences. The company states that this product is unique as compared to its contemporaries in that it offers stable effect and medicinal purity. It claims that the immunological, biological and physicochemical characteristics of this treatment are the same as natural FSH, making Follitrope a safe and effective medication for treating infertility among females.

Speaking on the occasion, LG Life Sciences’ CEO Jung Il-jae said that the signing of this new contract provides an opportune time to the company to promote safer and more effective treatments for treating female infertility using innovative medical techniques. He said that LG Life Sciences, along in partnership with Weijian Pharma Group is committed to providing greater value to its customers in China’s female infertility treatment market.

In October 2014, LG Life Sciences, along with Mochida Pharmaceutical (Japan), signed an agreement to develop and market a biosimilar for Humira, a drug that treats autoimmune disease. While Mochida will carry exclusive rights to develop and sell Humira in its home country, Japan, once the product is commercialized LG Life Sciences will manufacture and supply the final product to the Japanese company.

Thursday, 18 December 2014

India Harmonic Filter Market to Reach USD 188.5 million by 2019: Transparency Market Research

According to a new market report “Harmonic Filters Market in India - Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast, 2013 - 2019” published by Transparency Market Research, the market for harmonic filters in India is forecast to reach USD 188.5 million by 2019. Some of the factors responsible for growth of harmonic filter market are increasing use for harmonic mitigation in variable frequency drives and rising demand for power quality across different industries. The growth of the power sector is further supporting the harmonic filter market in India.

India Harmonic Filter market was valued at USD 81.1 million in 2012. The
market revenue is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 12.8% from 2013 to 2019. The market is segmented by type into active and passive filters. Among these filter types; passive filters dominated the market, accounting for majority of market revenue share in 2012. However, active filters are expected to grow in the coming years owing to increasing awareness related to the benefits of using active filters over passive filters to achieve higher harmonic mitigation. In addition, another major factor that governs the purchase of harmonic filter is the suitable voltage level. Harmonic filters are available for low voltage, medium voltage and high voltage applications. Low voltage harmonic filters are used majorly in the current scenario. However, the demand for medium and high voltage is expected to increase during the forecast period.

The detailed TOC of the report can be browsed at:
http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/india-harmonic-filters-market.html

Harmonic filters find their application across majority of the end use sectors. Some of the major application segments include industrial, IT and data center, automotive and oil & gas industry. Among these applications highest revenue was contributed by the industrial sector in 2012 owing to excessive use of harmonic filters for harmonic correction in drives. Amongst the other application sectors, IT and data center and automotive applications are major applications and these applications are expected to expand their market share in the coming years with an expected increase in the consumer awareness.

Some of the key players for the harmonic filters market in India include ABB India Ltd., Schneider Electric India, Emerson Network Power (India) Pvt. Ltd., Schaffner Group, and Neowatt Power Solutions Co. Pvt. Ltd. among others.

Get Press Release of this report, here:
http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/india-harmonic-filters-market.htm

This report analyzes the India harmonic filters market in terms of revenue (USD million). The market has been segmented as follows:

Harmonic filter market in India, by Type:

Active Harmonic Filter
Passive Harmonic Filter

Harmonic filter market in India, by Voltage Level:

Low voltage
Medium voltage
High voltage

Harmonic filter market in India, by Application:

Industrial
Manufacturing
Metal processing
Pulp and paper
IT and data center
Automotive
Oil & gas
Others (Water treatment, packaging etc.)

About Us

Transparency Market Research is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. Our highly experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information.

Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.

Contact

Ms. Sheela AK
90 State Street, Suite 700
Albany, NY 12207
Tel: +1-518-618-1030
USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453
Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com
Website: http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/

Wednesday, 17 December 2014

China’s Manufacturing Sector Set to Close 2014 on a Weak Note as Production Activity Contracts

A recently conducted private survey indicates a contraction in the factory activity in China. This adds weight to the view that China is in need of a strong stimulus. The findings are a part of the manufacturing purchasing managers’ index (PMI) gauged by HSBC/Markit. In November 2014, the reading of the index stood at 50, whereas in December it dipped to 49.5. An index reading higher than 50 denotes expansion, whereas anything lower than 50 points indicates contraction between two months.

The official PMI for December is slated to be released around the New Year by China. In November 2014, the official PMI released by China stood at 50.3. However, the latest reading from the HSBC/Markit survey puts Chinese manufacturing activity at a seven-month low.

According to HSBC China’s Chief Economist, Qu Hongbin, the domestic demand in China became sluggish and dipped below the 50-point mark for the very first time in the seven months leading back to April 2014. A sharp fall has also been noticed in the price indices. With this slowdown making its way into December, the year ends on a weak note for the Chinese manufacturing industry.

Earlier in December 2014, the central bank of China said that the country’s growth could decelerate to 7.1% in 2015, from 7.4% in 2014. The slump in the property market in China is the key reason for this. In the third quarter of 2014, growth in China’s economy slid to 7.3%. Since the 2008 global economic crisis, growth has never been this sluggish in China. And, it is for the first time in about 15 years that market watchers are speculating that China will miss its 7.5% official growth target.

Allianz Global Investors Announces Addition of 58MW Solar Park in South France to Portfolio

Allianz Global Investors, a German company, a 58 MW photovoltaic project—La Coste—located in southern France. The acquistion was made by the company for the Allianz Renewable Energy Fund (AREF). With this new portfolio—composed of six solar parks in Bordeaux—AREF has substantially added to its photovoltaic capacities. All plants are ground-mounted, with grid connections. According to available estimates, the production power of all these plants combined is about 75,000 MW hours of electricity annually. This amount of power, calculations show, can power at least 20,000 households in France.

According to Allianz Global Investors chief investment officer in-charge of infrastructure equity, Armin Sandhövel, the La Coste acquisition proves to be an ideal add-on the existing AREF portfolio. The company said that the solar irradiation of this French solar park is comparatively high, and thus serves as a premium investment. The company’s official said that this solar power park portfolio has furthered the company’s goals with respect to geographical diversification. This will also prove especially beneficial for investors in the company because they will now be able to reap the benefits of solar energy production in Italy, France, and Britain, over and above the electricity that is currently generated via the company-owned solar and wind power parks in Germany. La coste was acquired from BayWa r.e. Renewable Energy GmbH. Earlier in 2014, Allianz Global Investors had acquired the Great Glemham solar park in the UK from the same company.

The current deal will also see BayWa r.e. handling the operations and management at the La Coste solar power park.

Thursday, 11 December 2014

McDonald’s Makes Attempt to Curb Dipping U.S. Sales by Trimming Menu and Tweaking Ingredients

Dec. 11, 2014 (TMR Blog)- Fast food giant McDonald’s is trying hard to brush off its image as a food chain that serves fast food. As part of this endeavor, the restaurant chain intends to rehash its menu, likely bring changes to its cooking methods, and even do away with certain ingredients that support the junk food image. The restaurant’s CEO Don Thompson reassured investors this week that these changes will go a long way in helping the chain retain customers that are changing loyalties in the pursuit for healthier food options. The meeting, held in Oak Brook, Illinois, was called after the company reported another month of decline in sales in the United States. According to the company, sales figures dipped by 4.6% in November, according to data gathered from established locations.

Thompson has earlier conceded the restaurant chain’s failure to adapt fast enough to the changing tastes of consumers. This has largely happened because consumers are increasingly moving towards foods that are wholesome and have more fresh ingredients, often giving ‘junk food’ such as fries and fast food burgers a miss.

The company hopes that by introducing newer, healthier ingredients to its kitchens, it can mitigate this problem to some extent. The company has said that changes will need to be brought to the way McDonald’s prepares and delivers food. Customers will also likely notice a trimmed menu at McDonald’s restaurants in the future. A simplified menu, the company opines, will help customers make a choice quicker.

Another initiative that the company is taking is to rally after a program called ‘Create Your Taste’ that allows customers to choose their preferred burger buns, cheese and topping.

Wednesday, 10 December 2014

Luxury Brand Prada Manages to Sail Through 2014 with Satisfactory Earnings

Dec. 10, 2014 (TMR Blog)- Prada, the Italian luxury brand, has reported net profits to the tune of 319.3 million euros for the first three quarters of 2014, ending October 31. The company said that for this period, its consolidated net revenues amounted to 2.55 billion euros , a drop of 0.9% if calculated at the current exchange rates, and an increase of 0.5% if calculated at the constant rate of exchange. The company also said that its EBITDA was valued at 681.7 million euros, whereas the EBIT amounted to 496.4 million euros during this period.

The CEO of Prada Spa, Patrizio Bertelli, said that the year 2014 was proving more challenging for the company than what was previously thought. Over and above the complicated economic environment prevailing at the international level, numerous other changes and adjustments are being observed in the global luxury goods market. He said that the extent of these adjustments and changes was not yet clear. However, he expressed confidence that the company’s growth prospects in the medium term remained optimistic even as the company maintained a focus on the increasingly complex market conditions.

Bertelli added that the company remained confident of its decision to prioritize medium-term development of the group. This would be done via investments geared toward stylistic and qualitative excellence, the senior official said.

Prada has also been purportedly working on improving the efficiency of its business structures and on bringing improvements to the operating performance of its stores across global locations. All of these initiatives are expected to bring in higher levels of profitability, the company’s CEO said.

Tuesday, 9 December 2014

Finland Takes Steps to Strengthen Nuclear Energy Ties with Russia

Dec. 9, 2014 (TMR Blog)- Finland is taking steps towards strengthening its energy ties with neighboring Russia, after the former’s parliament gave the nod of approval for nuclear plant plans to be supplied by Rosatom, Russian state owned company. This step comes despite the mounting tensions between the East-West in the backdrop of the Ukraine crisis.

The parliament saw 115 parliamentarians in support of the decision, while 74 voted against it. This vote comes despite the recent call by the European Union asking its members to cut back on any energy-related deals with Russia. Following this step by the EU, Russia responded by deciding to send more gas to Turkey (a non-EU member) and cancelling a plan to construct a natural gas pipeline to Bulgaria, which is a member of the EU.

The Fennovoima nuclear reactor, located in Finland’s northern side, will be fuelled by Rosatom, and it is expected that output at this plant will begin in 2024. Financing for the Fennovoima reactor will also be arranged by Rosatom, as per the deal. According to economy minister of Finland, this wasn’t the “best time” to make this decision if the current international political scenario is taken into consideration. He said, however, that it was imperative for the Finnish parliament to make decisions when they did come to their table. He also stressed that this latest project would not be carried out in violation of the sanctions that have been imposed by the EU on Russia.

The project is valued at approximately US$8.7 billion, and had won backing way back in 2010. However, the project ran into a rough patch with several investors deciding to back out of the project. Last year, the project got back on track with Rosatom agreeing to pick up a stake in the project provided it was allowed to supply the nuclear reactor.

In New Zealand, 8% Pay Gap Prevails Between Men and Women in Public Sector: Report

Dec. 9, 2014 (TMR Blog)-Even as the number of women helming affairs in the public sector has shot up considerably, they are still reportedly underpaid by 8% as compared to their male counterparts. This gap, according to Human Resource Capability report published by the State Services Commission of New Zealand, has not changed in at least the last five years. The report, which is published annually, says that the gap that prevails in the pay packages of men and women holding key leadership positions in the public sector has held steady since 2010. A year later, in 2011, this gap became wider, reaching 11%, but has now returned to its previous levels of 8% for those in senior roles.

According to the report, the pay gap between men and women was worse among those working at lower levels in the public sector – women’s pay packages were 14% less than their male colleagues. The report further states that this gap was visible across the entire public sector. Men were reported to be earning an average of $76,784, which translates into about $11,000 more than what women earn. Andrew Little, leader of the Labour party, said this gap indicated a “failure of leadership” across the public services.

Figures show that women constitute nearly 60% of the entire public service workforce, which is about 42% of the total workforce. The report also showed that the Department of Prime Minister and the Cabinet was the worst in terms of women helming affairs, with just 15% females at occupying the top offices despite constituting 50% of the total staff of this department.

Thursday, 4 December 2014

Geriatric Care Services Market Expected to Reach USD 850 Billion Globally in 2019

A New market report “Geriatric Care Services Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast, 2013 - 2019,” the global geriatric care services market was valued at USD 560.4 billion in 2012 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.9 % from 2013 to 2019, to reach an estimated value of USD 850.0 billion by 2019.

The rising population of baby boomers in the U.S. is a major factor driving the global geriatric care services market wherein a new study shows that the demand outstrips the supply of these services across the globe. There are service providers as small as a family forming a home care agency to few large companies with national and even international operations which implies that the market is underserved and is also highly fragmented. The developed nations have anticipated the situation and are putting efforts to reduce the imbalance by increasing private service providers in the sector. However, most countries in the Asia-Pacific are far away from the thought of private senior care sector and have a stigma associated with senior care being provided by people other than the family members, friends and relatives. The scenario of senior care in these countries is however changing with time and creating new space and opportunities for the market.

The global geriatric care services market is analyzed by the type of services, and geography. On the basis of type of services, the market has been segmented into home care, adult day care and institutional care. The major geriatric population receives care from informal caregivers such as close family members which may include spouse, children, grandchildren, friends and relatives. The need for formal care arises when informal care is unavailable and is provided either in one or more forms of services mentioned earlier. The choice of these services depends on the need of care receiver senior adult and the ability to pay for these services. In 2012, the institutional care segment accounted for the largest market share in the global geriatrics market, followed by rapidly growing home care segment. Institutional care is the costliest among all the care services available but provides high level of care and has been the most developed and largest segment. However, high cost and the feeling of abandonment by family sensed by the elderly are limiting the growth of this segment. While speaking on this issue, Bunni Dybnis, an elder care industry veteran states the reason - “there are many people who would benefit from elderly care service, but a relatively few actually have paid or other non-related caregivers. Most are relying on family and other informal assistance. Cost, affordability, frugality, cultural traditions and resistance are all factors. Affordability is a major issue, but only one of many.” The restraints for institutional care settings are favoring the growth of other market segments.

The community care in the form of adult day care is also a growing segment which is supplementing the role of home care services by providing respite to the home care geriatric care workers. Tracey L. Wolfman, Adjunct Professor at Monmouth University, and a CEO of We Care Adult Care Inc., justifies the growth of Adult Day Care Services. In her opinion "Adult Day Care allows individuals to receive comprehensive quality care at half the price of home care, or one-fourth the cost of assisted living or nursing homes. A person can attend Adult Day Care during the day and return to their home at night”. Adult day care services offer several advantages such as living at home, skilled nursing care, enhanced quality of life, recreation, social interaction and respite to caregivers which contributes to the growth of the market.

Browse the full Press Release: http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/geriatric-care-services-market.htm

North America and Europe are expected to maintain their leading positions in the global geriatric care services market throughout the forecast period from 2013 to 2019. In developed nations such as the United States, Canada, Germany, France, the U.K., Italy and Spain, the market is witnessing high growth due to increasing number of aged people opting for geriatric care services. The chronic illness among elderly people, increased life expectancy, and the limitations in performing cognitive and functional activities (i.e. activities of daily living) are the evident reasons for the growth of geriatric care services market in developed nations. The rising pressure on hospitals to reduce stay of patients is contributing to the growth of the out of hospital care services. Many countries in these regions have presence of several large companies and independent service providers which fulfill the needs of geriatrics care.

Geriatric care services market in these regions is trending towards consolidation while on the other hand the market in Asia-Pacific and Rest of the World regions is highly underdeveloped. Brookdale Senior Living, Inc., Extendicare, Inc., Genesis HealthCare Corp., Gentiva Health Services, Inc., GGNSC Holdings, Home Instead Senior Care, Inc., Kindred Healthcare, Inc., Senior Care Centers of America, Skilled Healthcare Group, Inc., and Sunrise Senior Living, Inc. are some of the major companies operating in the global geriatric care services market.

Get the more details about this report, here:

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/geriatric-care-services-market.html

The global geriatric care services market is segmented as follows:

Geriatric Care Services Market, by Type

Home Care
Health Care
Medical Care
Physiotherapy services
Telehealth
Palliative Care
Hospice Care
Non Medical Home Care
Personal care
Home making
Meals and Grocery
Rehabilitation
Others
Adult Day Care
Health Care
Non Medical Care
Institutional Care
Nursing Homes
Palliative Care
Hospice Care
Hospital Based
Assisted Living
Independent Senior Living

Geriatric Care Services Market, by Geography

North America
U.S.
Canada
Europe
U.K.
France
Germany
Spain
Italy
Rest of Europe
Asia-Pacific
India
China
Japan
Australia
Rest of Asia-Pacific
Rest of the World (RoW)
Latin America
Middle East
Africa
Rest of RoW

CFBAI Survey Finds Members in Excellent Compliance of F&B Advertising Standards to Children

A latest industry report released by the Children’s Food and Beverage Advertising Initiative (CFBAI) lauds US foods and beverage companies for remaining committed to standing against childhood obesity by using only healthier foods in advertisements for children. The report studies progress related to compliance in 2013, and includes 18 companies.

The report comprises a summary of the assessment of CFBAI’s standards set for the food and beverage industry. According to the deputy director of CFBAI, Maureen Enright, the council did notice a few problem areas that are documented in the report, but the committee noticed a strong level of compliance.

The CFBAI official said that the authority keeps a close check on foods that are advertised to children, and companies carry out self-assessments to show their adherence to the various standards, systems, and procedures that have been implemented. According to the report, the criteria set by CFBAI have led to a number of improvements in advertising standards and ethics for children aged 12 or less, especially in the backdrop of a growing incidence of obesity in that age bracket. Between 2007 and 2013, the use of nutrition standards that are company-specific have been used by the participants.

According to the 2013 figures from the CFBAI’s survey, food and beverage advertisements constituted lower than 25% of all advertisements. The advertisements were sampled during programs aired on the Nickelodeon television channel. A large proportion of these advertisements were by companies that are CFBAI participants, and it was observed that most of these advertisements reported at least one recipe enhancement from the time that the company became a CFBAI member.

Wednesday, 3 December 2014

Decline in Oil Prices Translates into Reduced Construction Orders from the Middle East

The Middle East is reportedly witnessing a decline in the performance of the domestic construction sector and plant industry. This is being linked to lower numbers of plant orders from key oil-producing countries – a factor that is further ascribed to a sharp dip in international prices of oil. With sliding oil prices, it is likely that OPEC countries could be staring at a financial crisis. This could potentially lead to these countries cancelling or deferring plans for commissioning gas or oil plants.

According the latest figures reported in the media on December 1, 2014, the reduced plant orders from oil-producing nations in the Middle East is already showing an impact on the Korean construction sector. Orders from Saudi Arabia to Korea, for instance, fell down to US$2.95 billion in 2014, as compared to US$8.76 billion during the same time in 2013. Saudi Arabia slipped from its premier position as the largest business provider to the Korean construction sector between 2011 and 2013. This year, Saudi Arabia ranked behind the UAE and Vietnam, which is an emerging economy.

A similar declining trend was observed in orders from Qatar, with orders going down as much as 62%, a leading business portal from Korea reported. According to the portal, the domestic construction industry is anxious to a high number of order cancellations affecting the construction sector, on lines similar to the post-2008 recession period. The recession had caused losses of billions of dollars, either because projects were delayed indefinitely or cancelled altogether.

Canadian Manufacturing Industry Buoyed by Exports in November: Royal Bank of Canada

According to a gauge by the Royal Bank of Canada, the country’s manufacturing industry reported healthy output in November 2014, as the rate of exports grew at a rapid pace. This growth pace was reported as being the fastest in over a year. These latest findings suggest that manufacturing facilities in Canada were still enjoying the benefits of a stronger economic recovery in its neighboring regions.

The RBC’s gauge of manufacturing activity in Canada was measured as being 55.3 in November 2014, which remained the same as the previous month. Economists regard a reading above 50 as being an indication of manufacturing activity growth. A reading below 50 indicates contraction in manufacturing activity.

Since April 2013, manufacturing activity in Canada has been recorded as being at level 50 or above. The RBC conducts a monthly survey to gauge industrial manufacturing activity on the basis of 400 industrial participants and primary consultations.

According to senior vice president and chief economist of RBC, the latest manufacturing activity data from Canada indicates that the sector has been witnessing consistent output, as well as increased employment. A strong jump in export orders has further buoyed this trend. Another aspect that works in the favor of the Canadian manufacturing industry is the competitive Canadian dollar and the strong American economy. Economists expect that this trend will continue as the manufacturing sector benefits from lower transportation costs and lower energy prices.

The latest survey also indicated that an increase in rising export orders has proven beneficial to manufacturers.

Exports in Canada have only rebounded in the last two quarters, indicating the strong demand from the United States has kept orders flowing in for Canadian manufacturers.

Tuesday, 2 December 2014

Infographic: Pharmacovigilance Market and Service Providers Expected to Reach USD 5.0 Billion Globally in 2019

According to a new market report published by Transparency Market Research "Pharmacovigilance Market [Clinical Trial Phases (Pre-Clinical Studies, Phase I, Phase II, Phase III, Phase IV or Post-Marketing Surveillance) and Service Providers (In-House and Contract Outsourcing] - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast, 2013 - 2019," the global pharmacovigilance market was valued at USD 2,147.3 million in 2012 and is estimated to reach a market worth USD 5,008.2 million in 2019 at a CAGR of 12.9% from 2013 to 2019.

Infographic: Combined Heat & Power (CHP) Installation Market is Expected to Reach USD 76.1 Billion in 2018

According to a new market report published by Transparency Market Research "Combined Heat And Power Installation Market by Product (Large-scale CHP, Micro-CHP), by Application (Residential, Commercial & Industrial), Technology (Combined Cycle, Combustion/Gas, Steam, Fuel Cell etc)- Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast, 2012 - 2018," global CHP demand was 452.9 GW in 2011 and is expected to reach 1,219.1 GW in 2018, growing at a CAGR of 15.3% from 2012 to 2018. In terms of revenue, the CHP installation market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.7% from 2012 to 2018.