Ribbon Call Trust® Deepfake Detection helps Service Providers and Enterprises combat AI-generated synthetic voice threats and deepen trust in voice communications

PLANO, Texas, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Ribbon Communications Inc. (Nasdaq: RBBN), a global leader in real-time communications technology, IP routing, and optical networking solutions, today announced Ribbon Call Trust® Deepfake Detection, a new network-based solution designed to protect customers from calls containing AI-generated synthetic audio. The solution enables service providers, enterprises, and government agencies to reliably detect synthetic audio at scale as AI-generated threats proliferate.

Customer lab trials of this unique, network-based synthetic audio detection solution are expected to begin in 1Q 2027. Ribbon's Call Trust portfolio leverages Ribbon's industry-leading Session Border Controllers installed base, and decades of experience in secure real time communication.

AI makes it increasingly easy for bad actors to produce convincing voice imitations and to impersonate colleagues, customers, public figures and family members. The result is an erosion of trust in voice communication, as a call that appears to come from a known entity and sounds authentic may not be. Unlike suspicious emails or messages, voice calls unfold in real time, leaving little opportunity to stop and reflect before responding.

The rise of agentic AI has led to the explosive growth of this threat, a trend that is expected to continue. According to cybersecurity firm Crowdstrike, Vishing intrusions increased 2x in the first half of 2026 compared to the second half of 2025, and leading global research and advisory company Gartner states that 41% of chief information security officers (CISOs) reported at least one social engineering incident involving a deepfake during an employee audio call in the previous 12 months, and 36% reported one during a video call.

Ribbon Call Trust Deepfake Detection operates within the network infrastructure by analyzing call streams through Ribbon Session Border Controllers (SBCs) using patent-pending synthetic audio detection algorithms. The solution is designed to identify artificial voice content, including individual synthetic segments inserted into an otherwise legitimate call, even when audio has passed through multiple codecs or networks.

This unique network-level technology enables protection across all end-points without requiring users to install an application or use a screen-based device. Detection data can also be coordinated with third-party security systems to support a broader threat response.

Ribbons Call Trust Deepfake Detection leverages existing SBC capabilities and can operate on a massive scale in enterprise or service provider networks with market-leading efficiency and reliability. This makes for outstanding economics, maximum detection rates, and a seamless fit into existing networking infrastructure.

"AI has dramatically lowered the barrier to human impersonation. What once required sophisticated technology and extensive recordings can now be accomplished with a relatively small voice sample," said Sam Bucci, COO and EVP at Ribbon. "Ribbon has a long history of enabling secure voice communications, and Ribbon Call Trust Deepfake Detection extends that expertise to help address this emerging threat directly within the network. In an era when hearing a familiar voice is no longer enough to know who is really calling, communication providers are searching for ways to restore trust in voice communications."

Ribbon Call Trust Deepfake Detection positions network operators at the center of restoring trust in voice communications, giving them an opportunity to protect customers from emerging threats while differentiating their offerings through network-based security services. And Enterprise IT organizations have a new tool to increase protection against synthetic audio, preventing what could become a costly security breach.

About Ribbon

Ribbon Communications (Nasdaq: RBBN) is a global provider of voice communications software, IP routing, and optical networking to mobile and wireline service providers, enterprises, critical infrastructure and defense sectors. We support our customers' Path to Autonomous Networks by leveraging the latest AIOps automation platforms and Agentic AI technologies, helping them deliver better customer experiences, reduce operational costs, and achieve sustainable growth. To learn more about Ribbon, visit rbbn.com.

Important Information Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

The information in this release contains forward-looking statements regarding future events that involve risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this release, including those regarding the expected benefits from use of Ribbon Communication's products, are forward-looking statements. The actual results of Ribbon Communications may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. For further information regarding risks and uncertainties associated with Ribbon Communications' business, please refer to the "Risk Factors" section of Ribbon Communications' most recent annual or quarterly report filed with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements represent Ribbon Communications' views only as of the date on which such statement is made and should not be relied upon as representing Ribbon Communications' views as of any subsequent date. While Ribbon Communications may elect to update forward-looking statements at some point, Ribbon Communications specifically disclaims any obligation to do so.

Investor Contact

+1 (978) 614-8050

[email protected]

Media Contact

Catherine Berthier

+1 (646) 741-1974

[email protected] 

SOURCE Ribbon Communications Inc.

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AI-powered workplace planning platform connects workplace intelligence with employee experience

ST. LOUIS, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Freespace, a workplace performance platform, today launches Space Manager, a software solution that combines occupancy data with employee preferences to generate workplace layout and scheduling plans, enabling employees and teams to coordinate shared office days.

Hybrid working makes it difficult to balance employee experience with real estate costs. CBRE's 2026 global workplace benchmark found that organizations use 53% of office space on an average day and 80% on peak days. Mondays and Fridays remain relatively empty, while office costs continue to rise.

Current administrative tools for managing office utilization vary across organizations. Research indicates that nearly half of organizations analyze space usage using spreadsheets, while 51% cite poor or missing data as a barrier to AI adoption. Other organizations rely on legacy workplace systems that operate in silos, meaning plans often reach employees late or not at all.

Space Manager Integrates occupancy data from sensors, badge access and Wi-Fi, with employee preferences and floor plan limitations. The platform's AI planning engine tests layouts, seating plans and attendance patterns against business goals, such as co-location and flexible capacity. It then implements the chosen plan through Freespace apps and digital wayfinding signage, so employees know when, where and with whom they are working.

The release of Space Manager further strengthens Freespace's Connected Workplace ecosystem, which includes Optimize (how space is used), Manage (turns insight into action), and Engage (employee digital workplace experience). Built on a shared data foundation, Freespace products work together seamlessly to improve workplace performance.

"For years, clients have trusted Freespace to show how their offices are really used," said Raj Krishnamurthy, CEO and Founder of Freespace. "But knowing is only half the story. Space Manager is the next step in our Connected Workplace vision, turning workplace intelligence into real action. Operators can design better office experiences, employees can have more productive workdays, and leaders can make decisions they can defend."

Space Manager is available now. To book a demonstration, visit www.afreespace.com/lp-space-manager.

About Freespace

Founded in 2015, Freespace is a connected Workplace Performance Platform. It helps global organisations understand, plan and improve how offices are used. Its Optimize, Manage and Engage pillars connect workplace intelligence with employee experience. Freespace is ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certified and GDPR compliant.

SOURCE Freespace

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InkFox Publicity Strengthens Team With Three New Hires

Reorganization strengthens agency's approach to book publicity, thought

leadership and social media strategy

PHOENIX, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- InkFox Publicity (a LAVIDGE company), has hired Meghan Krein as publicity manager and Kirsten Kalebich and Maeve Larson as publicists, strengthening the agency's capabilities in book publicity, thought leadership and social media strategy.

The new hires join Anne Robertson, managing director of publicity, and Ziggy Goldfarb, senior publicist. Together, the new team brings experience across public relations, publishing, journalism, content development and social media to help authors and publishers navigate an evolving book industry.

"We've brought together professionals with complementary skills and a shared love of stories," Robertson said. "They each bring a fresh perspective to our approach and the campaigns that empower discovery for authors and their books."

Krein joins InkFox after several years of leading communications and public relations at Childhelp, a national nonprofit focused on child abuse prevention and intervention. Her work included media relations, storytelling, content strategy and campaigns. She previously worked at Arizona State University and McMurry/TMG. Krein holds a master's degree in clinical psychology and worked as a therapist before transitioning to communications.

Kalebich brings experience developing written and visual social media content for hundreds of auto retailers nationwide. An Arizona State University alumna with a background in English literature, she writes fiction and has built a social media following around her developing stories.

Larson is a recent Northern Arizona University graduate and has worked as a reporter and public relations manager for "The Lumberjack," the university's student newspaper. She also previously interned for Proven Media, and Applied Linguistics Press, an open-access academic publisher.

"Building InkFox's capacity is an investment in the long-term success of this business," said Sandra Torre, LAVIDGE co-president and chief financial officer. "This team strengthens our ability to serve authors and publishers while positioning us to develop new client relationships and grow within the publishing industry."

Launched earlier this year, InkFox builds on more than a decade of literary publicity experience at LAVIDGE. The firm serves publishers, hybrid presses and traditionally published and self-published authors, with customized campaigns focused on earned media, thought leadership and social content.

"A strong team starts with people who are curious, generous with their ideas and ready to work together," said Bob Case, LAVIDGE co-president and chief creative officer. "Meghan, Kirsten and Maeve bring that spirit to InkFox. Their contributions will enrich our culture and the creative thinking we bring to our clients."

About InkFox Publicity

InkFox Publicity (a LAVIDGE Co.) is a dedicated book publicity firm built for today's publishing landscape – where authors operate as entrepreneurs, publishers require sustained audience engagement, and visibility demands a blend of traditional media, digital strategy, and creative storytelling. InkFox is also backed by the full-service marketing expertise of LAVIDGE, delivering tailored publicity journeys rather than one-size-fits-all campaigns. Our work focuses on credibility, momentum, and long-term impact – because publicity today is about staying present where readers discover books. Visit www.inkfoxpublicity.com 

Media contact: Anne Robertson, managing director, InkFox Publicity, [email protected]

SOURCE InkFox Publicity

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Internship programs should focus on providing meaningful projects and one-on-one conversations with experienced employees

NEW YORK, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Vault, the leader in data-driven employer rankings and reviews, today released its 2027 Internship Rankings, highlighting the top programs in more than 30 categories. Vault's rankings include the Most Prestigious Internships, Best Overall Internships, Best Internships by Key Employment Factor, Best Internships by Role, and Best Internships by Industry. The rankings were derived from Vault's Summer 2026 Survey, which polled more than 18,000 interns.

According to Eric Stutzke, SVP & General Manager of Vault, "Our intern survey highlighted the importance of providing interns with meaningful work. Interns also value opportunities to interact more with experienced workers, especially in settings that allow them to have authentic conversations. Highly rated programs don't just ask interns to attend presentations and lectures from leaders; they set up networking and mentorship opportunities. Top programs also tend to be well-organized. Before an intern starts, the intern's manager and the intern program organizer should have a clear idea of what tasks and projects will be assigned to the intern, and the manager should plan on meeting regularly with the intern."

Key findings from Vault's survey, which was fielded this past Summer, include:

PKF O'Connor Davies Tops Vault's Best Overall Internships Ranking: For the fourth year in a row, New York-based accounting firm PKF O'Connor Davies takes the No. 1 spot on Vault's Best Overall Internships list. PKF O'Connor Davies ranks first in several Quality of Life categories, including Compensation, Employment Prospects, Training and Mentoring, and Networking Opportunities. Interns reported that they appreciated that they were able to work closely with accountants at all levels as well as participate in meetings with clients. The No. 2 ranked company on the Best Overall Internships list is Fastly, a cloud computing company based in San Francisco. Fastly also took the top spot in Real-Life Experience; interns report working on high-impact engineering projects.

Interns are impressed with NASA and tech giants: Survey participants were asked to rate internships other than their own in terms of prestige and NASA, Google, and Apple once again took the first, second, and third spots, respectively.

Interns care greatly about development opportunities: Interns' top priority in choosing an internship is career development in their chosen industry, followed by opportunity for a full-time position. Interns who were highly satisfied with their programs mentioned being able to work on meaningful projects and have one-on-one conversations with experienced employees.

Internships should be well-organized: Almost all interns (more than 98%) would recommend their internship to a friend, but among those that would not recommend their internship, some common themes emerged: the interns often had no tasks or projects assigned to them, reported that their managers were rarely available, and used the word "disorganized" to describe their internships.

The Top 10 Most Prestigious Internships for 2027:

The Top 10 Best Overall Internships for 2027:

Accounting: PKF O'Connor Davies Internship Program

Construction & Trades: DAVIS Summer Internship Program

Consulting: Bates White Summer Consultant Program

Consumer & Industrial Products: Constellation Brands Internship Program

Energy & Renewables: The Williams Companies Internship Program

Financial Services: Popular Internship Program

Health Sciences: AdventHealth Leadership Internship

Insurance: HUB International Internship Program

Investment Banking: Guggenheim Securities Investment Banking Internship Program

Media: Cox Early Careers Internship Program

Retail: The Home Depot Internship Program

Tech & Engineering: Fastly Internship Program

Travel & Transportation: ADUSA Distribution and Transportation Internship Program

View all the Vault Internship Rankings.

About Vault

Vault is the leader in career research, exploration, and discovery for professionals and students. Through our data-driven Vault rankings, verified employee and intern reviews, and an extensive network spanning hundreds of campuses and universities, we have been the trusted provider of career intelligence solutions for emerging talent for over two decades. Our exclusive company rankings, in-depth employer profiles, and valuable employee/intern reviews encompass a wide range of industries, including Law, Banking, Accounting, Consulting, and the top Internship programs.

SOURCE Vault

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- The QKS Group SPARK Matrix™ provides competitive analysis & ranking of the leading Identity Bot Management vendors.

- Radware, with its comprehensive technology and customer experience management, has received strong ratings across the parameters of technology excellence and customer impact.

PUNE, India, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- QKS Group announced that it has named Radware a global leader in AI and application security and delivery solutions for multi-cloud environments, a technology leader in the analysis of global SPARK Matrix™: Bot Management, Q4 2026.

The QKS Group SPARK Matrix™ includes a detailed analysis of the global market dynamics, major trends, vendor landscape, and competitive positioning. The study provides competitive analysis and ranking of the leading technology vendors in the form of its SPARK Matrix™. The study offers strategic information for users to evaluate different provider capabilities, competitive differentiation, and market position.

As per Sofia Ali, Principal Analyst at QKS Group: "Radware is redefining Bot Management by shifting detection from static signatures and score-based rules to intent-driven analysis of how automation actually behaves. Its engine unifies pre-emptive blocking through the ERT Active Attackers Feed, AI-based behavioral analysis across hundreds of signals, and real-time signature generation into a single self-learning framework that catches evasive, human-like bots with less manual tuning. A native mobile SDK with built-in Android and iOS attestation extends the same policy framework across web and mobile, while one of the market's broadest mitigation repertoires, from tunable CAPTCHA to proof-of-work crypto challenges, lets enterprises calibrate response per URL, flow, or user segment without trading off user experience. Radware further extends this into the AI era with session-level classification of AI crawlers and autonomous agents, using active intent verification and dynamic trust scoring to govern automation rather than blanket allow or block. Delivered natively within Radware's Cloud Application Protection platform alongside WAF, API, DDoS, and client-side protection with cross-correlated intelligence, Radware positions Bot Management as a coordinated control layer for the emerging agent economy."

"As bots and AI agents grow more sophisticated, organizations need to distinguish malicious automation from legitimate activity," said Shira Sagiv, vice president, portfolio marketing, Radware. "Our Bot Manager uses AI-driven behavioral analysis to identify malicious intent and stop sophisticated attacks without disrupting legitimate users."

Additional Resources:

- For more information about Radware Bot Manager visit here.

- SPARK Matrix: Bot Management, 2026

About Radware

Radware is a global leader in application security and delivery solutions for multi-cloud environments. The company's cloud application, infrastructure, API and AI security solutions use AI-driven algorithms for precise, behavior-based, real-time protection against sophisticated web, application and DDoS attacks, API abuse, business logic threats and malicious bots. Radware delivers end-to-end API security, including discovery, posture management, testing and runtime protection, along with advanced protection for AI agents and models. Enterprises and carriers worldwide rely on Radware to address evolving cyberthreats, protect their brands and business operations, and reduce costs. For more information, please visit the Radware website.

Radware encourages you to join our community and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, the Radware Blog, X and YouTube. Any Radware products and solutions mentioned in this press release are protected by trademarks, patents and pending patent applications of Radware in the U.S. and other countries. For more details, please see https://www.radware.com/LegalNotice/. All other trademarks and names are property of their respective owners.

Media Contact:

Gina Sorice for Radware

[email protected]

About QKS Group

QKS Group is a global analyst and advisory firm helping enterprises, technology vendors, and investors make trusted, data-driven decisions. Our portfolio spans the flagship SPARK Matrix™ evaluation framework, SPARK Plus™ analyst advisory platform, QKS Intelligence™ for market and competitive tracking, and QKS Community™ for CXO leaders and practitioners. All offerings are powered by a Human-Intelligence-driven framework and QKS's closed-loop research methodology - integrating expert-led insights, quantitative modeling, and continuous validation to deliver credible, outcome-focused intelligence.

For more available research, please visit Research

Media Contacts:

Anish

PR & Media Relations

QKS Group 

5th Floor, Wing 2, Cluster C, 

EON Free Zone, Kharadi,

Pune, India

Email: [email protected]

Content Source: https://qksgroup.com/newsroom/radware-positioned-as-a-leader-and-emerging-innovator-in-the-spark-matrix-bot-management-2026-by-qks-group-1835 

Connect with us on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/qksgroup/

SOURCE QKS Group

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We propose an uprating of the existing 275kV overhead lines to facilitate a transmission load of 400kV and the development of three new substations to help carry more green power f...

The Chesterfield to Willington project will reinforce the electricity transmission network and provide the necessary increased capacity between the North and the Midlands.

We need to strengthen the network here to increase the network capability in the region to carry the clean green energy that is proposed in East Anglia.

Over the next 2 years, we will be completing some essential refurbishment work to ensure that the line continues to provide a safe and reliable supply of electricity to homes and b...

National Grid Electricity Transmission is currently investigating suitable sites close to Navenby in Lincolnshire for a proposed new substation to connect to several proposed solar...

National Grid Electricity Transmission is currently developing proposals for Sea Link, a new planned high voltage undersea electricity link between Suffolk and Kent.

In Spring 2020 we embarked upon a seven-year, £1 billion project, to rewire South London via deep underground tunnels. This vital work will help keep Londoners connected to safe an...

The North London Reinforcement project will see work being conducted on the existing overhead line between Pelham and Rye House substation and Hackney substation.

EGL1 is a two gigawatt (GW) high voltage direct current (HVDC) electrical superhighway to be built between the Torness area in East Lothian, Scotland and Hawthorn Pit in County Dur...

The Eastern Green Link 3 (EGL3) and Eastern Green Link 4 (EGL4) projects are needed to increase network capability to connect the numerous new offshore wind farms that are being de...

The Grimsby to Walpole upgrade is a proposal to build a new high voltage overhead line in Lincolnshire, including building new pylons and new substations. It is needed to increase...

We are proposing to build a new high voltage electricity transmission line and associated works between a new substation north of Hull at Creyke Beck in the East Riding of Yorkshir...

This work will include the erection of two new compounds on land already owned by National Grid for the installation of this equipment, and for some other associated works includin...

National Grid is working with the North East Combined Authority (NECA), Port of Tyne and regional partners to remove the restriction posed by existing overhead electricity lines that cross the River Tyne at Wallsend and Jarrow.

Carlisle to Newcastle is a proposal in its early stages of development to upgrade the electricity network between the North West and North East of England.

This project is designed to strengthen the electricity network between Scotland and England. It will connect new sources of energy in the Scottish Borders to the wider network.

We are carrying out refurbishment work on our electricity transmission line that runs between our substations in Kearsley and Whitegate. This line is 15km long and has 45 pylons.

We are carrying out refurbishment work on our electricity transmission line that runs between our substations in Penwortham near Preston and Daines to the West of Manchester. This...

Over the coming months, we will be replacing the remainder of the overhead line, conductors, and fittings on the Bramford to Braintree to Rayleigh route.

The overhead lines running between Fleet and Lovedean have been operational for many years and National Grid has identified the route as needing refurbishment.

The Grain to Tilbury project is a proposed electricity infrastructure upgrade, involving the replacement of the existing 1960s Thames Cable Tunnel beneath the Thames between Tilbur...

The current substation at Littlebrook, Dartford is no longer fit for purpose and a new facility is needed to ensure that we continue to provide a reliable supply of electricity for...

To support Network Rail in the decarbonisation of its network, we are installing a 400/25kV Supergrid transformer at Bramley substation and connecting it to a new trackside substat...

A stunning landscape crossed by the popular Cotswold Way National Trail, with expansive views across farmland, ancient woodland and distinctive escarpments.

The Landscape Enhancement Initiative (LEI) is an important part of the VIP project. Championed by our stakeholders, the initiative aims to use up to £11m of the Ofgem provision for...

From October 2022, National Grid will be working in partnership with its contractor Balfour Beatty to refurbish a 40km/25 mile stretch of overhead power line between Nursling and M...

We’ll shortly be refurbishing the overhead power lines between Walham and Cilfynydd / Cyn bo hir, byddwn yn adnewyddu'r llinellau pŵer uwchben rhwng Walham a Cilfynydd.

We’ll carry out further upgrade and maintenance work to fully refurbish the 50-year-old line. This concludes the activity we started in 2017. This will keep the transmission networ...

Our overhead line running between Drax and Thornton, in Yorkshire, has been operational since 1971. To ensure it remains reliable and keeps homes and businesses in the region suppl...

EGL2 is a 2GW high voltage direct current (HVDC) electrical ‘superhighway’ cable link to be built between Peterhead in Aberdeenshire, Scotland and Drax in North Yorkshire, England.

The Yorkshire GREEN project proposes new infrastructure including substations, overhead lines, underground cables and cable sealing end compounds (where underground cables meet ove...

We propose an uprating of the existing 275kV overhead lines to facilitate a transmission load of 400kV and the development of three new substations to help carry more green power f...

The Chesterfield to Willington project will reinforce the electricity transmission network and provide the necessary increased capacity between the North and the Midlands.

We need to strengthen the network here to increase the network capability in the region to carry the clean green energy that is proposed in East Anglia.

Over the next 2 years, we will be completing some essential refurbishment work to ensure that the line continues to provide a safe and reliable supply of electricity to homes and b...

National Grid Electricity Transmission is currently investigating suitable sites close to Navenby in Lincolnshire for a proposed new substation to connect to several proposed solar...

National Grid Electricity Transmission is currently developing proposals for Sea Link, a new planned high voltage undersea electricity link between Suffolk and Kent.

In Spring 2020 we embarked upon a seven-year, £1 billion project, to rewire South London via deep underground tunnels. This vital work will help keep Londoners connected to safe an...

The North London Reinforcement project will see work being conducted on the existing overhead line between Pelham and Rye House substation and Hackney substation.

EGL1 is a two gigawatt (GW) high voltage direct current (HVDC) electrical superhighway to be built between the Torness area in East Lothian, Scotland and Hawthorn Pit in County Dur...

The Eastern Green Link 3 (EGL3) and Eastern Green Link 4 (EGL4) projects are needed to increase network capability to connect the numerous new offshore wind farms that are being de...

The Grimsby to Walpole upgrade is a proposal to build a new high voltage overhead line in Lincolnshire, including building new pylons and new substations. It is needed to increase...

We are proposing to build a new high voltage electricity transmission line and associated works between a new substation north of Hull at Creyke Beck in the East Riding of Yorkshir...

This work will include the erection of two new compounds on land already owned by National Grid for the installation of this equipment, and for some other associated works includin...

National Grid is working with the North East Combined Authority (NECA), Port of Tyne and regional partners to remove the restriction posed by existing overhead electricity lines that cross the River Tyne at Wallsend and Jarrow.

Carlisle to Newcastle is a proposal in its early stages of development to upgrade the electricity network between the North West and North East of England.

This project is designed to strengthen the electricity network between Scotland and England. It will connect new sources of energy in the Scottish Borders to the wider network.

We are carrying out refurbishment work on our electricity transmission line that runs between our substations in Kearsley and Whitegate. This line is 15km long and has 45 pylons.

We are carrying out refurbishment work on our electricity transmission line that runs between our substations in Penwortham near Preston and Daines to the West of Manchester. This...

Over the coming months, we will be replacing the remainder of the overhead line, conductors, and fittings on the Bramford to Braintree to Rayleigh route.

The overhead lines running between Fleet and Lovedean have been operational for many years and National Grid has identified the route as needing refurbishment.

The Grain to Tilbury project is a proposed electricity infrastructure upgrade, involving the replacement of the existing 1960s Thames Cable Tunnel beneath the Thames between Tilbur...

The current substation at Littlebrook, Dartford is no longer fit for purpose and a new facility is needed to ensure that we continue to provide a reliable supply of electricity for...

To support Network Rail in the decarbonisation of its network, we are installing a 400/25kV Supergrid transformer at Bramley substation and connecting it to a new trackside substat...

A stunning landscape crossed by the popular Cotswold Way National Trail, with expansive views across farmland, ancient woodland and distinctive escarpments.

The Landscape Enhancement Initiative (LEI) is an important part of the VIP project. Championed by our stakeholders, the initiative aims to use up to £11m of the Ofgem provision for...

Dan-O's Seasoning Secures Strategic Investment of $25M from The Newcastle Network to Bring Bold Flavor to More Kitchens

The partnership marks The Newcastle Network's first investment in food, backing a brand built with a community of more than 15 million home cooks.

WELLESLEY, Mass., Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Newcastle Network, a consumer-focused private equity firm, today announced a $25 million investment in Dan-O's Seasoning, the Louisville-based brand that turned a farmers market table into a flavor community more than 15 million strong. The investment marks The Newcastle Network's first move into food.

The investment will supercharge Dan-O's next chapter, bringing fans more of the flavors they love, in new formats, and expanding availability across retail and online. Founder Dan Oliver and CEO Phillip Crosby continue to lead Dan-O's as the company grows, staying true to its mission to change the way the world seasons food.

"The brands we're most excited about don't just sell products, they change behavior," said Chris Casgar, Managing Partner, The Newcastle Network. "Dan has built far more than a seasoning company. He's created a platform that inspires millions of home cooks to experiment, create, and enjoy cooking more. That's rare, it's incredibly difficult to replicate, and it's exactly the kind of business we're looking to back as we build our food portfolio. The Dan-O's investment is just the beginning."

For Newcastle, Dan-O's is a signal of a broader commitment to the category. The firm sees founder-led challengers taking share from legacy food brands by building community first and distribution second. Newcastle's team brings deep expertise in food, built over their individual careers, positioning the firm as a hands-on partner to the brands it backs.

"I started out at a farmers market with one goal: get people to put some Dan-O's on it, have fun in the kitchen, and make food they were excited to share," said Dan Oliver, Founder of Dan-O's Seasoning. "Our Fan-O's took it from there. They started shakin' it on everything, mixing flavors, creating their own recipes, and making Dan-O's part of their own cooking stories. They've built this into something way bigger than me. With Newcastle's support, we'll keep bringing more Dan-Good flavor, helping more people cook with confidence, and making time in the kitchen even more fun."

Founder Dan Oliver started Dan-O's in 2015, selling an early version of his Original blend at a local farmers market after friends kept telling him it was too good to keep to himself. He shared the recipes he was cooking, fans cooked along, and before long they were stacking blends, mixing flavors, and making them their own. Dan-O's became more than a seasoning. It became a creative outlet in the kitchen and the center of a growing community of home cooks. The brand is sold at danosseasoning.com and in more than 22,000 retailers nationwide, and Dan was named an EY Entrepreneur of the Year in 2023.

Dan-O's and The Newcastle Network will build the brand's next chapter together, staying true to the flavor, the fans, and the community that made it what it is today.

About Dan-O's Seasoning

Dan-O's Seasoning was founded in 2015 by Dan Oliver in Louisville, Kentucky. The company's mission is to change how the world seasons food, one seasoning at a time, by providing a flavor-first alternative to traditional herbs and spices. Dan-O's is one of the fastest-growing seasoning brands in the country with a community of more than 15 million home cooks, and a presence in more than 22,000 major retailers nationwide and online at www.danosseasoning.com.

About The Newcastle Network

The Newcastle Network is a consumer-focused private equity firm that backs standout brands and the exceptional people behind them. Newcastle pairs capital with an operating engine built around data science, technology, and go-to-market expertise, designed to help founders and leadership teams grow faster than they could alone. Its portfolio spans footwear (Kizik), collectibles (Super7), pet (Pet Life Unlimited), and food (Dan-O's Seasoning).

SOURCE The Newcastle Network

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- New 12,000-square-foot training center expands hands-on instruction and franchisee support across seven commercial facility services brands

- Dedicated AI lab showcases tools to support daily operations, technician training, and customer service

- Platform supports approximately 800 territories and more than 340 ownership groups, with plans to exceed 1,200 territories within three years

ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- EverSmith Brands , a commercial facility services franchise platform, will open EverHUB on Oct. 22 in Milford, Ohio . The 12,000-square-foot center will expand training, technology demonstrations, and support across seven brands as the platform targets more than 1,200 territories within three years.

"Franchisees choose a platform for the support behind them," said Justin Ghadery, CEO of EverSmith Brands. "EverHUB gives owners across all seven brands access to hands-on training, our Home Office teams, and each other. As we grow beyond 1,200 territories, every new owner will start here."

Located at 502 Techne Center Drive in Milford, Ohio, EverHUB will serve owners across 1-Tom-Plumber, Clintar, Kitchen Guard, MilliCare, Prism Specialties, The Seals and U.S. Lawns. EverSmith Brands' headquarters will remain in Orlando, Florida.

Hands-On Training Built Around the Work

EverHUB features brand-specific training stations that simulate the commercial environments franchisees and their teams encounter in the field. Using commercial equipment, including a partner-contributed walk-in refrigerator, teams can practice service procedures in a controlled setting before applying those skills at customer sites.

The stations will support live demonstrations and hands-on technical instruction, while an 80-person event room will accommodate onboarding, business training, and franchise meetings. The facility also includes a podcast studio and recreation area.

"EverHUB shows a real commitment to helping franchise owners succeed," said Brian Marra, owner of 1-Tom-Plumber Pittsburgh and the brand's 2026 Franchisee of the Year. "I'm excited for our team to get more hands-on training, explore new technology, and learn from other owners across the EverSmith Brands network. For us, that means better-prepared technicians, stronger service for our customers, and more opportunities to grow."

Bringing AI Into Everyday Operations

A dedicated AI lab will introduce franchise owners to tools for daily operations and technician training through live demonstrations and case studies.

Equipped with computers, workstations, and virtual reality equipment, the lab will support the development and training of AI agents built using Claude, with a focus on helping franchisees support their teams and improve customer service.

Keeping Franchise Owners at the Center of Growth

EverHUB's "Voice of the Franchisee" theme recognizes leading owners throughout the facility and highlights their role in shaping the platform's direction.

"Our franchise owners' perspectives must remain at the center of every strategic initiative," Ghadery said. "Every decision we make must consider the impact on their businesses."

"Having a dedicated facility where owners and team members can train on the equipment, processes and service standards we use every day will help create greater consistency across the system," said Chris Kushmaul, owner of MilliCare in Ann Arbor, Michigan. "For MilliCare, that means better-trained teams, stronger execution in the field and more confidence as we continue to grow."

A private grand opening celebration will include a ribbon-cutting, tours, and entertainment, bringing together franchisees from all seven brands, strategic partners, platform leadership, Riverside representatives, franchise brokers, IFA partners, and local officials.

EverSmith Brands is actively seeking franchise owners across its portfolio, with territory available nationwide. Learn more at www.eversmithbrands.com/franchise-support/.

About EverSmith Brands

Formed by The Riverside Company in 2020, EverSmith Brands brings together seven essential commercial facility services franchises: 1-Tom-Plumber, Clintar, Kitchen Guard, MilliCare, Prism Specialties, The Seals and U.S. Lawns. Its portfolio spans approximately 800 territories and more than 340 ownership groups across seven countries. The platform supports franchisees through centralized sales resources, national accounts, business coaching, vendor partnerships, and hands-on training. Franchise opportunities are available nationwide. Learn more at www.eversmithbrands.com.

SOURCE EverSmith Brands

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Bolt picks NVIDIA Alpamayo Stack to drive its autonomous vehicles across Europe

NVIDIA software to power Bolt's European autonomous programme, beginning in Madrid in 2027 and supporting the rollout of at least 25,000 Lucid vehicles, as Bolt targets 100,000 AVs by 2035

BERLIN, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Bolt has selected NVIDIA Alpamayo Stack, NVIDIA's full-stack autonomous-driving software, to drive vehicles in its European autonomous ride-hailing programme, beginning with Lucid.

With the core technology now in place, Bolt is preparing to bring its autonomous driving programme onto European roads. The programme will start in Madrid during 2027 while Germany and France are identified as key markets for future deployment. The programme will lay the foundations for a rollout of at least 25,000 Level 4-ready Lucid vehicles equipped with NVIDIA Hyperion.

The programme forms a major part of Bolt's wider plan to deploy 100,000 autonomous vehicles across Europe and the wider UNECE region by 2035.

Together, Bolt, NVIDIA and Lucid are turning a global technology supply chain into one product for European cities. The aim is to build an autonomous ride-hailing service that can expand beyond individual programmes, across multiple vehicle manufacturers and markets.

The programme in Madrid is expected to begin with Lucid vehicles in 2027, initially gathering real-world driving data to support the development and validation of the autonomous driving technology, subject to regulatory approval.

The programme pairs Lucid's software-defined vehicles with NVIDIA Hyperion and Alpamayo Stack. Bolt and NVIDIA will work together to adapt the driving software for European roads and integrate it into vehicles from multiple manufacturers, beginning with Lucid. Running on NVIDIA Hyperion, Alpamayo Stack combines reasoning AI with classical perception and planning, supported by NVIDIA Halos safety capabilities.

Bolt Autonomous Driving Solutions will lead the development and commercialisation of the autonomous ride-hailing service in Europe, bringing its fleet-management infrastructure, regulatory expertise and local market knowledge to the programme, alongside its experience operating a global mobility platform serving more than 200 million customers.

"Autonomous driving will change how people move around cities, and Europe should play a major role in how that future is built," said Jevgeni Kabanov, President and Head of Autonomous Driving at Bolt.

"Our ambition isn't to bring autonomous driving to just a handful of cities. We want to make autonomous ride-hailing available at scale across Europe, with 100,000 vehicles on our platform by 2035. We're bringing together some of the best technologies in the world to make that possible. Following our first autonomous mobility launch in Luxembourg, our next step with NVIDIA and Lucid is to begin a programme in Madrid in 2027. The Region of Madrid is pioneering a structured framework for commercial autonomous mobility in coordination with national authorities. Germany will also be a priority for what comes next, with cities already setting out clear ambitions for autonomous mobility."

"Robotaxis will scale when every vehicle is built on a common, safety-engineered foundation," said Rishi Dhall, vice president of automotive at NVIDIA. "NVIDIA Hyperion standardizes the compute and sensor architecture across vehicle platforms, while NVIDIA Alpamayo Stack and Halos provide the driving intelligence and safety foundation. Bolt's European platform, operational experience and work with cities and regulators make it a strong partner to bring autonomous ride-hailing to market at scale in Europe."

"Lucid's advanced vehicle architecture provides an ideal foundation for integrating NVIDIA Alpamayo technology with Bolt's mobility platform," said Kay Stepper, President of Lucid Technologies and Chief Digital Officer at Lucid. "Our close collaboration to date, and launch of data collection next year, mark the first steps toward bringing scalable, software-defined autonomous mobility in Europe."

The NVIDIA and Lucid programme forms part of Bolt's wider autonomous driving strategy, alongside its work with Pony.ai and Stellantis, bringing together multiple vehicle manufacturers and technology partners to develop and deploy autonomous mobility across European markets.

NOTES TO EDITORS

- Alpamayo Stack is full-stack driving software that combines reasoning AI, classical perception and planning, and safety guardrails to navigate complex traffic. Running on NVIDIA Hyperion, it will provide a common software foundation for Bolt's planned expansion across vehicle platforms and European markets.

- The programme will be built with NVIDIA Halos, NVIDIA's safety system bringing together safety-engineered computing, system software, AI guardrails and validation tools. Halos supports safety throughout development and operation, with capabilities for monitoring system behaviour and evaluating driving performance through simulation and real-world testing. These capabilities help teams build evidence that the integrated vehicle and driving software perform as intended across the conditions they are designed to encounter.

- Press images are available here.

About Bolt Autonomous Driving Solutions

Bolt Autonomous Driving Solutions is Bolt's dedicated autonomous-driving unit, working with vehicle manufacturers, autonomous-driving technology providers, cities and regulators to co-design, integrate and scale human-centric Level 4 autonomous mobility in Europe. It combines Bolt's platform scale and European city experience with expertise in product integration, safety, fleet technology, driving data and regulation to bring autonomous mobility to market on European terms.

About Bolt

Bolt is a European shared mobility platform that has operations in over 50 countries and 850 cities and provides shared mobility services, including ride-hailing, scooter and e-bike rental and car rental to over 200 million customers. More than 4.5 million drivers and couriers use the Bolt platform around the world. The company seeks to accelerate the transition from owned cars to shared mobility, offering better alternatives for every use case.

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