OEE Measures the Machine. Innovapptive Launches Frontline Execution Effectiveness (FEE) to Measure the Response.

New Frontline Execution Effectiveness score arrives with a ~120-plant benchmark finding that problems wait weeks, not hours, before they are fixed; introduced at Connected Worker Manufacturing Summit 2026

HOUSTON, Oct. 13, 2026/PRNewswire/ -- Every plant leader can see their OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness). Few can say how quickly their plant responds when a problem is found, or whether the fix held. Innovapptive, a leading provider of AI-powered industrial execution platforms for asset-intensive industries, today launched Frontline Execution Effectiveness (FEE), a single score from 0 to 100% for how quickly and how well a plant responds to every problem it detects. FEE is introduced in The Frontline Execution Benchmark 2026, drawn from operational walkthroughs of approximately 120 plants and sites across 22 organizations and seven industries.

In the plants studied, the response ran in weeks, not hours. Among plants that reported the measure, median maintenance backlog was 12.1 weeks against a 2–4 week norm, and nearly every plant that reported a measure fell outside its reference band on at least one of five standard indicators: OEE, wrench time, preventive maintenance compliance, reactive share and backlog.

Closing the gap pays. At Indorama Ventures' Port Neches, Texas site, a single execution layer from Innovapptive delivered $19M in savings, about a 17% cost take-out on the site's $112M budget, with contractors cut from 140 to 83, average overtime down from 24% to 10% and inventory accuracy at 99.5%.

How FEE Works

OEE shows how a machine performed. FEE shows how quickly and how well the plant responded, and is designed to complement, not replace, OEE. It averages two measures across every valid problem a plant detects:

- Latency: the share of a problem's closure window the plant kept, from detection to verified closure.

- Resolution: whether the fix held, with no repeat failure on the same asset within 90 days.

Scores map to five proposed bands, from unacceptable (below 25%) to world class (70% and above). This first edition reports the observable response chain across the plants studied, not measured FEE scores.

"Plant leaders have OEE dashboards and still cannot answer how long a known problem waits before it is fixed, or whether the fix holds. FEE puts one number, and a clock, on that response. A plant manager can estimate it in ten minutes from their last 20 problems."

— Sundeep Ravande, Co-Founder and CEO, Innovapptive

What the Benchmark Found

The data comes from anonymized Margin Walkthrough diagnostics at plants that engaged in a diagnostic, not a random sample.

- Among plants that reported them, median OEE was 62.7% against an 85% reference, and median reactive share of work was 52% against a reference below 20%.

- Notifications waited a median of 21 days at one polymer plant, and corrective work took about 100 days from creation to completion at two chemicals plants.

- At one polymer plant, availability fell from 99.6% to 82.7% over four months while maintenance cost per ton rose 2.6 times, an illustration of how lost availability spreads fixed cost over fewer tons.

"The missing layer is not insight. It is execution. A signal is only worth something if it becomes a decision, a ready job, a finished repair and a fix that holds."

— Peter Gibbons, Board Member, Innovapptive, and former Group President, Enterprise Supply Chain, 3M

Join Innovapptive at the Summit

Innovapptive will introduce FEE on stage at the 5th Annual Connected Worker Manufacturing Summit, October 13–15 at the Westin Chicago North Shore. A main-stage keynote panel on October 15 from 8:40 to 9:10 a.m. will bring together Rebecca Teeters, SVP of Business Supply Chain and President of Chemical Operations at 3M; Jim Graves, Global Digital Manufacturing Head at Indorama Ventures; Natalie Thompson, Vice President of Reliability and Maintenance at bp; and Vish Palekar, Head of Automotive and Manufacturing Industry and Solutions at AWS. Attendees can get the benchmark and estimate their own FEE at Booth 30.

Find Your FEE. Find the Margin.

Estimate your FEE in about ten minutes with the worksheet in the report. No data leaves your plant. Get the benchmark report for free at Booth 30 or on the summit page. Book a Margin Walkthrough, a two-day on-site assessment that measures your FEE and quantifies what closing the gaps is worth.

Summit page: innovapptive.com/event/connected-worker-manufacturing-summit-2026 Learn more about FEE: innovapptive.com/frontline-execution-effectiveness

About Innovapptive

Innovapptive is a leading provider of an AI-powered Industrial Execution Platform for asset-intensive industries, serving 50+ customers, including Shell, Indorama, Goodyear, and Kimberly-Clark. Its platform brings operators, planners, schedulers, technicians, and supervisors into a unified workflow on top of existing systems of record. Innovapptive was named 2026 Company of the Year by Frost & Sullivan and recognized as a Leader in the Frost Radar™ for Augmented Connected Worker Platforms, 2025.

Media Contact

Innovapptive, Inc.

[email protected]

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Nel ASA: Partners with Rheinmetall on its Giga PtX project for decentralized synthetic fuel production

OSLO, Norway, Oct. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Nel ASA and Rheinmetall AG have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore joint opportunities in decentralised renewable fuel production, supporting critical infrastructure and energy security. The collaboration will combine Nel's electrolyser technology with Rheinmetall's Giga PtX concept and systems-integration expertise to assess scalable, modular solutions for the localised production of low-carbon synthetic fuels for defence and critical infrastructure applications.

For the Giga PtX project, Rheinmetall has been seeking and announcing strategic tie-ups with local champions for specific markets. Building on this great progress, Rheinmetall is expanding its strong partner network with Nel for the Norwegian market.

The parties will explore the deployment of decentralised synthetic fuel production based on renewable hydrogen produced through electrolysis, enabling the production of synthetic fuels that can substitute conventional fuels without requiring changes to end-use applications. Produced closer to where they are needed, these fuels can reduce reliance on centralised production and long, vulnerable supply chains. By deploying modular fuel production nearer to demand centres, the collaboration aims to strengthen energy security and preparedness through a more decentralised fuel supply system.

Nel will contribute its electrolyser technology for renewable hydrogen production, while Rheinmetall will contribute its Giga PtX concept, systems-integration capabilities and experience in strategic infrastructure.

In a period of heightened geopolitical tension, secure access to fuels is becoming an increasingly important part of national preparedness. Many countries remain dependent on imported fuels or refined products supplied through long, centralised logistics chains. Producing fuels closer to where they are consumed can reduce exposure to disruption and strengthen national and regional energy security. This challenge is particularly evident in Norway. With only one oil refinery in operation, the country exports significant volumes of crude oil to Europe for refining before refined products are transported back for domestic use. In times of disruption, this can leave parts of the fuel supply chain dependent on infrastructure beyond national control.

"Countries that depend on long and vulnerable fuel supply chains face increasing uncertainty. We believe renewable hydrogen can play an important role in enabling more resilient fuel systems while reducing emissions," said Kjell Christian Bjørnsen, CFO of Nel. "Through this collaboration with Rheinmetall, we are exploring how our technology can be integrated into new value chains for synthetic fuels."

Rheinmetall brings extensive industrial expertise in defence, advanced systems engineering and infrastructure development, and sees strong potential in next-generation fuel ecosystems.

"The transformation of energy systems requires new partnerships across industries," said Shena Britzen, Head of Hydrogen Program of Rheinmetall AG. "By working with Nel, we are exploring decentralised synthetic fuel solutions that can support both civilian and defence-related needs. We see localised synthetic fuel production, enabled by electrolysis, as an important element in strengthening energy security and future fuel supply chains."

Norway represents a natural starting point given its strong renewable power base, industrial capabilities, and ongoing development of carbon capture and utilisation value chains, although the scope of the cooperation is not limited geographically. Norway's energy system is characterised less by a shortage of electricity generation than by constraints in transmission and distribution. Decentralised fuel production can enable renewable energy to be converted and used closer to the source, creating additional flexibility in how renewable power resources are utilised while potentially reducing pressure on existing infrastructure.

Under the MoU, Nel and Rheinmetall will jointly assess technical and commercial feasibility, including potential sites, infrastructure requirements, renewable power access, sustainable carbon sources and priority use cases. The cooperation may include pilot projects to validate modular concepts and demonstrate the viability of decentralised fuel ecosystems. The MoU is non-binding, and any further steps will be subject to mutual agreement and ongoing assessments.

About Nel ASA |www.nelhydrogen.com

Nel has a history tracing back to 1927 and is today a leading pure play hydrogen technology company with a global presence. The company specializes in PEM and Alkaline electrolyser technology for production of renewable hydrogen. Nel's product offerings are key enablers for the energy transition, making it possible to decarbonize various industries such as transportation, refining, steel, and ammonia.

About Rheinmetall AG | www.rheinmetall.com

Rheinmetall was founded in 1889 as "Rheinische Metallwaaren- und Maschinenfabrik Actiengesellschaft". Today, the listed company Rheinmetall AG, headquartered in Düsseldorf, stands for a company that is as strong in substance as it is successful internationally, and that is active in various markets with an innovative range of products and services. Rheinmetall is a leading international systems supplier in the defence industry. The focus on sustainability is an integral part of Rheinmetall's strategy.

Rheinmetall is reducing its Scope 1 and 2 CO₂ emissions (market-based). The CO₂ emissions in the supply chain and during the products' use phase account for a significant proportion of the Group's emissions. Reducing CO₂ emissions in the supply chain will form part of the procurement strategy in future. A transition plan is currently being drawn up.

For additional information, please contact:

Kjell Christian Bjørnsen, CFO, +47 917 02 097

Wilhelm Flinder, Head of IR, Communications & Marketing +47 936 11 350

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

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CHENGDU, China, Oct. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Tongwei Solar has introduced the TNC 2.0 FULLX G12R-48, a 48-cell residential solar module delivering up to 490 W at 24.5% efficiency in a compact 1,762 × 1,134 × 30 mm format. Available in Full Black and Black Frame versions, it combines high power output with strong energy generation, installation flexibility and a design suited to modern homes. Zander Yuan, Director of Product & Technology at Tongwei Solar, explains how the module helps homeowners get more from their available roof space.

What makes the TNC 2.0 FULLX G12R-48 stand out from other rooftop solar modules?

Residential rooftops often have limited space, so every module needs to deliver more. The TNC 2.0 FULLX G12R-48 reaches 490 W, around 30 W more than conventional TOPCon modules of a comparable format, helping homeowners install more capacity without increasing the number of modules.

A module's rated power is only one measure of its performance. Under Tongwei's test conditions, the module achieved an average 3.3% higher per-watt energy generation than copper-plated back-contact (BC) modules. This advantage is supported by lower leakage current and stronger low-light performance. Comparative testing shows that at an irradiance of 200 W/m², a TNC module retains 19.42 W of an initial 100 W, compared with 18.60 W for a copper-plated BC module. By reducing leakage-related losses and performing better under weak sunlight, the module can make more effective use of available sunlight, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon.

How do these performance advantages translate into real value for homeowners?

What matters to homeowners is how much electricity their system generates over time, not just the power rating on the module. In tests conducted in Yancheng, the TNC module achieved 447.56 equivalent full-load hours, compared with 433.27 for copper-plated BC modules. Its generation advantage reached up to 12.32% during early morning and late afternoon under the tested conditions.

These gains can help households make better use of their rooftop systems, including during periods when electricity prices are higher. Higher generation per watt can also create opportunities to reduce upfront costs. Based on specific pricing assumptions, a 485 W TNC module could deliver comparable energy output to a 500 W copper-plated BC module, potentially saving more than €400 in module costs for a 12-module system. Actual results and savings will depend on installation conditions, local electricity tariffs and product pricing.

How does the module adapt to different rooftops, and what about its appearance and durability?

Not every rooftop has an ideal orientation or remains free of dust. German-condition simulations showed lower low-light generation losses for the TNC module across different orientations than for the copper-plated BC module tested. It also recorded smaller power losses under light, moderate and heavy soiling conditions, helping maintain energy output when conditions are less than ideal.

Appearance matters too, particularly for residential installations. The TNC 2.0 FULLX G12R-48 comes in Full Black and Black Frame versions to suit different roof designs. Its zero-cell-gap layout and concealed current-collection features create a clean, uniform look without sacrificing performance. The dual-glass construction and protective sealing are designed to support long-term reliability in outdoor environments.

How does the TNC 2.0 FULLX G12R-48 fit into Tongwei's vision for residential solar?

Residential solar needs to balance power, energy generation, installation flexibility and appearance. A module that performs well on paper must also make sense for the roof it goes on and the people who live beneath it.

The TNC 2.0 FULLX G12R-48 brings these priorities together in a compact format. Its high power output helps maximise installed capacity, its energy-generation performance supports better use of available sunlight, and its two design options give homeowners greater choice.

Ultimately, the goal is to make residential solar more practical and valuable, helping homeowners get more from every rooftop.

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5.18 introduces Draft Mode, enabling teams to capture and refine issues and markups privately before publishing them. The release also adds bulk import and export of custom model data, redesigned 2D navigation and four times faster model loading.

LAUSANNE, Switzerland, Oct. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Revizto, the leading Collaboration Hub for the AECO industry, has launched 5.18, introducing a draft-first approach to technical review across 2D drawings and 3D models. Draft Mode leads the release, supported by new ways to connect project data, streamline review and improve performance across complex projects.

Points raised on site or in coordination meetings are often discussed and refined on whiteboards, in PDFs and across email threads, then pieced together afterwards before anyone decides what needs formal action.

Revizto 5.18 closes this review-to-decision gap between project discussions and the project record.

With Draft Mode, users can now capture feedback and decide what to do with it later. They can create issue drafts in 2D or 3D, alongside markup drafts on drawings, and privately edit existing issues and their annotations before publishing changes.

Drafts save locally and remain private to the author until they are ready to share or turn the work into a tracked issue. They can also be exported to PDF for meetings or review. The drawing, model location and surrounding project context stay connected throughout. Users can build on that thinking as the review progresses, iterate and then formalize what needs action without recreating it somewhere else.

Keep project data in context

5.18 also introduces Custom Property CSV Export/Import, giving teams an easier way to update project information across multiple model objects without changing the source BIM files.

This is particularly valuable for organizations that may not create the model themselves but still need to maintain their own project data on top of it. Installation status, contractor details, work packages, inspection information and other project-specific data can stay connected to the model context where teams plan, coordinate and deliver.

Once updated, those properties can be used across Search Sets, filters and visual workflows, giving teams more ways to organize project information, understand progress and bring the data that matters into technical review and risk management.

Speed you'll notice on the heaviest projects

Complex models now load four times faster than in Revizto 5.17, helping teams move into review more quickly. Meanwhile, redesigned 2D navigation keeps common review tools and relevant project information closer to the work itself, helping teams move between sheets, issues and annotations with less switching and more context. Pins and markups can be viewed together, and markups can move between sheets and projects.

Marc Schütz, Chief Product Officer at Revizto, said: "Technical reviews are where critical project decisions start, but the process has never been as linear as the tools around it often expect. A problem gets spotted, the team works through it, context builds and only a fraction of those become formal actions. Draft Mode changes the dynamic, giving users the freedom to think, refine and collaborate directly alongside the drawings and models before deciding what needs to enter the project record. Combined with improved navigation and faster performance, 5.18 brings digital review even closer to the way ambitious project teams need to work: flexible, informed and built for the pace and pressure of major projects."

What's new in Revizto 5.18

- Draft Mode – Create markup drafts in 2D and issue drafts in 2D or 3D, and privately edit existing issues and their markups before publishing. Drafts auto-save locally.

- Custom Property CSV Export/Import – Export object properties, update Custom Property values in external tools and bring those changes back into Revizto in bulk, while leaving the source BIM files unchanged.

- Redesigned 2D navigation – Grouped tools, contextual menus and direct sheet movement bring common review actions closer to the drawing. On-sheet filtering keeps relevant issues in focus, while pins and markups appear together in the same view.

- Markups that travel – Copy, cut and paste annotations between sheets and across projects, carrying useful review detail forward without having to recreate it.

- Revit title-block alignment – Keep sheet numbers, titles and revisions aligned with what appears on the Revit drawing, reducing manual corrections after publishing and supporting detailed identification conventions, including ISO 19650 naming practices.

- Scaled sheet comparison – Adjust sheet scale by percentage around a fixed anchor point, allowing drawings created at different scales to be accurately aligned, overlaid and compared.

- Faster model performance – Models load four times faster across demanding project environments.

5.18 is available now to download through Revizto Workspace as part of existing subscriptions. Find out more here.

About Revizto

Revizto enables the people behind the world's most important structures to do their best work. We connect architects, engineers, contractors and owners to deliver projects on time and on budget. By uniting teams in one shared 2D/3D space across the entire building lifecycle, we drive maximum collaboration and results. From airports to hospitals to data centers, Revizto empowers clients like Jacobs, AECOM, AtkinsRéalis, Skanska, and Stantec to deliver critical infrastructure without risk or waste, for a world that's built to last.

Built on a gaming engine, Revizto is unbreakable for construction's toughest conditions and most complex projects. It works everywhere teams need it—in the office or on-site, across all devices. Backed by Summit Partners, Revizto is headquartered in Switzerland, where it has been recognized by Deloitte among Switzerland's Best Managed Companies in 2024, 2025 and 2026. Revizto has also been named among the FT1000: Europe's Fastest-Growing Companies 2025. The company has team members across the globe.

SOURCE Revizto

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Dream Vacations Wins Five 2026 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards, Including Three Gold and Two Silver

Awards recognize Dream Vacations' innovation in

travel advisor education, AI, search visibility and business growth

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Oct. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Dream Vacations won five 2026 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards, including three Gold and two Silver honors, recognizing the travel agency franchise's work in advisor education, innovation, business growth, and community engagement.

Presented annually by Travel Weekly, the Magellan Awards recognize outstanding design, marketing, and services across the travel industry. This year's winners represent some of the industry's most innovative programs, technologies, and business initiatives.

"What makes these awards so meaningful is that each one represents a different way we're helping advisors build and grow their business," said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager for Dream Vacations. "From industry-leading training and destination education to AI innovation, marketing tools, and opportunities for advisors to connect with and learn from one another, these initiatives are all focused on giving our network a competitive advantage. We're incredibly proud of our teams and honored to be recognized by Travel Weekly."

Dream Vacations' 2026 Magellan Awards at a Glance

- Gold | Web Marketing/Advertising: Dream Vacations Agent Directory

- Gold | Business Strategy: Turning Destination Knowledge Into Advisor Confidence

- Gold | Training Program: Building Advisor Confidence Through CLIA-Recognized Training

- Silver | Travel Agent Innovation: Helping Travel Advisors Thrive in the Age of AI

- Silver | Virtual Experiences/Events: Travel Book Club: Turning Stories Into Travel Inspiration

Gold Magellan Award Winners

Dream Vacations Agent Directory. The enhanced platform helps advisors showcase their expertise, improve online visibility, and connect with high-intent travelers. Through integration with TravelLeaders.com and optimization for both traditional and AI-powered search experiences, the directory has become a powerful lead-generation and business-growth tool.

Turning Destination Knowledge Into Advisor Confidence. This initiative recognizes Dream Vacations' destination certification programs focused on Alaska, the Caribbean, and Hawaii, helping advisors deepen their expertise, strengthen client recommendations, and deliver more personalized vacation planning experiences.

Building Advisor Confidence Through CLIA-Recognized. Dream Vacations became the first CLIA Premier Agency Member to earn CLIA elective credits for its franchise training program, creating a stronger pathway for advisors pursuing professional certification and industry credentials.

Silver Magellan Award Winners

Helping Travel Advisors Thrive in the Age of AI. This initiative highlights the organization's integration of artificial intelligence across marketing, advisor education, search visibility, and business operations, helping advisors save time, increase efficiency, and remain competitive in an evolving marketplace.

Travel Book Club: Turning Stories Into Travel Inspiration. The program combines destination storytelling, cultural exploration, and community engagement to help advisors broaden their travel knowledge while discovering new ways to inspire clients through meaningful travel conversations.

The Magellan Awards are judged by a panel of experienced travel professionals and recognize excellence across a broad range of travel industry categories. Entries are evaluated against a standard of excellence established by Travel Weekly and its judging panel.

For a complete list of winners, visit Travel Weekly Magellan Awards.

Those passionate about travel and entrepreneurship who would like to learn more about franchise ownership opportunities with Dream Vacations can visit DreamVacationsFranchise.com.

About Dream Vacations

Dream Vacations is a home-based travel agency franchise that gives its advisors everything they need to plan smooth and memorable vacations for their clients— all while delivering great value. As part of World Travel Holdings and a proud member of the International Franchise Association, Dream Vacations has earned top honors, including franchise partner of the year from major cruise lines. The franchise is also nationally recognized for its strong commitment to supporting military veterans. For more details, visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com. You can also connect with Dream Vacations on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

About Travel Weekly

Travel Weekly is the most influential provider of news, research, opinion, and analysis to the North American travel trade marketplace. It reaches a broad industry audience in print, online, and through live events throughout the year.

About Northstar Travel Group

Northstar Travel Group is the leading business-to-business information and marketing solutions company serving all segments of the global travel industry. For more information, visit NorthstarTravelGroup.com.

Media Contact:

Michael Cadigan

Manager, Public Relations & Corporate Communications

1-877-958-7447

[email protected]

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Nordic commits to bringing technology and engineers closer to children and students, as the Micro:bit Educational Foundation calls for industry and education to work together

OSLO, Norway, Oct. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Nordic Semiconductor (OSE: NOD), a global leader in low-power wireless IoT solutions, this month celebrates 10 years of its ultra-low-power wireless technology at the heart of the BBC micro:bit, the pocket-sized educational development board that has helped an estimated 73.5 million young people in more than 85 countries learn coding and digital creativity, according to the Micro:bit Educational Foundation.

The milestone follows the Foundation's call for industry and education to work together so that children can understand, question, and create with technology. When launched back in in 2016, up to one million micro:bit boards powered by Nordic wireless technology were distributed to school-children across the UK through the BBC Make it Digital campaign. Today, it has become one of the world's most widely used tools for introducing young people to programming, electronics, and digital creativity. The Foundation aims to reach 100 million young people by 2028.

"Nordic Semiconductor has been with us from the very beginning. In 2016, they supplied a million components for the original BBC micro:bit, which was given to every Year 7 student across the UK," says Gareth Stockdale, CEO of Micro:bit Educational Foundation. "That was an extraordinary commitment to a new idea, and it helped put a real computer into the hands of a whole generation of young people."

The original board was built around the Nordic nRF51822 Bluetoothâ Low Energy SoC, while the current micro:bit v2 uses the nRF52833 multiprotocol SoC, providing world-class Bluetooth LE wireless connectivity and ultra-low-power edge AI capabilities. This means students are learning on proven low-power wireless technology from the same family used by professional engineers in connected products across consumer, industrial, and healthcare applications. For many developers, the micro:bit is the first step on a path from the classroom to professional wireless development.

"Nordic has remained one of our longest-standing and most active partners, with their technology at the heart of every micro:bit," continues Gareth Stockdale,. "We're very grateful for their generosity and their belief in what we do. As we look to the next decade, we're excited to keep working together to help even more children discover what they can create with technology."

"The micro:bit has shown what happens when technology is made accessible, practical, and fun. Interest in technology is often decided early, long before anyone chooses a subject or a career," said Vegard Wollan, CEO of Nordic Semiconductor. "We want children to discover what they can build, and to see technology and electronics as a real option for their education. Many of tomorrow's developers will first encounter wireless technology in the classroom with the micro:bit. We will keep supporting that, through our technology and through collaboration with the schools and communities closest to us."

Nordic's commitment to educating young minds continues this month, closer to home. On October 15, Nordic will join Electronic Coast at the Horten Tech Festival in Norway, where local school pupils and university students can meet Nordic's technology experts and pitch ideas for what they would like to build with micro:bit. Nordic will demonstrate BBC micro:bits alongside a selection of its wider wireless IoT technologies. The aim is to make Nordic visible and accessible to young people, including those considering careers in engineering and technology, while strengthening the company's presence in one of Norway's important electronics communities.

By combining classroom-friendly hardware with industrial-grade wireless technology, the micro:bit has helped close the gap between education and engineering practice. For Nordic, the program is a natural extension of its broader mission: to provide the complete wireless solution for designing, deploying, and maintaining the world's IoT devices securely, reliably, and sustainably.

About Nordic Semiconductor

Nordic Semiconductor is a leading low-power wireless IoT company, providing the essential platform and wireless technologies that connect the world's IoT devices. By offering world-class hardware, embedded software, development tools, and cloud lifecycle services, the company simplifies the development and maintenance of secure, reliable, and scalable connected products.

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SoftAtHome powers Orange's new "Reconnexion Flash" Service with Always'ON to Keep French Homes Online During Fiber Outages

The Livebox switches the whole household to the customer's smartphone hotspot. No app, no VPN, no extra hardware.

PARIS, Oct. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- SoftAtHome, an independent software provider for broadband, Wi-Fi, video, and analytics, today announces that its cutting edge Always'ON product powers Orange's new "Reconnexion Flash" service for customers in France. When a fiber line goes down, the service running on the Livebox automatically routes the connection through the customer's own smartphone. Every device in the home stays online without any reconfiguration.

A fiber cut or routine maintenance usually causes significant disruption to end users. The fallback has usually been dedicated backup hardware such as a 4G dongle or mobile router. Always'ON removes that step. The Livebox detects the outage, connects to the smartphone's hotspot and continues to serve the home network. Laptops, tablets, smart TVs, and connected devices continue as before, over Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

Orange activated the service remotely for customers equipped with the latest Wi-Fi 7 Livebox: Livebox 7 Wi-Fi 7 and Livebox S. There is no hardware to ship and no time wasted on complex set-up.

Simple by design

The customer does not install a mobile app, configure a VPN, or depend on a dedicated server. Setup takes a few minutes :

- The Livebox screen shows a QR code as soon as the outage is detected.

- Scanning the code opens a short web tutorial. It explains how to turn on the smartphone's hotspot and set the password the Livebox provides.

- The Livebox detects the nearby smartphone and connects automatically. The customer does not need to pick a network name.

Once this is set up, during the outage, connection to the smartphone's hotspot is fast. When fiber service is restored, the Livebox redirects traffic back to the fixed line and closes the mobile link automatically.

Internet services, including streaming video apps, run over the backup connection. Services tied to the fixed network, such as the Livebox landline phone and Orange's multicast TV channels, resume when the fiber line is restored.

Simpler and faster reconnection

"With Reconnexion Flash, we are simplifying our customers' lives at a key moment by offering them a fast and autonomous solution to maintain their internet connection in the event of an outage. This unprecedented technological breakthrough on the French market illustrates Orange's commitment to strengthening network resilience and delivering an optimal customer experience." Laurence Thouveny, Customer Experience EVP, Orange

"An outage is a sensitive moment when a broadband customer judges their operator. With Always'ON, the home stays online via the customer's smartphone, and the operator maintains control of the experience. It is a real value-added service designed to run on different gateway software environments, including prpl." Arnaud Bellivier de Prin, CEO, SoftAtHome

About SoftAtHome

SoftAtHome is an independent software provider with eight critical solutions for: broadband (Connect'ON), Wi-Fi (Wifi'ON), security (Secure'ON), video (Watch'ON), analytics and QoE monitoring (Eyes'ON), reduced environmental footprint (Green'ON), a new gateway Appstore environment (Orchestr'ON), and a new seamless WAN failover via smartphone (Always'ON). With its products deployed in over 30 million Wi-Fi homes and millions of mobile devices, SoftAtHome helps telecom and network operators deliver enhanced digital home experiences. The company's 300+ employees, mainly software engineers, are committed to innovation and actively contribute to open-source communities like prpl. SoftAtHome's hybrid solutions leverage cloud-based components and software embedded in multiple mobile and fixed devices. For more information: www.softathome.com or [email protected]

For Press Information Contact:

Marta Twardowska-Rienks for SoftAtHome

E: [email protected] - LI: SoftAtHome

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Kholo Capital provides R275 million (US$17 million) mezzanine debt funding to DCC Holdings to support refinancing and future growth

The funding will refinance existing debt and support DCC's long-term growth strategy

JOHANNESBURG, Oct. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Kholo Capital Mezzanine Debt Fund I ("Kholo Capital") (www.KholoCapital.com) today announced the provision of R275 million (US$17 million) in mezzanine debt funding to DCC Holdings Proprietary Limited ("DCC"), a leading South African information and communications technology ("ICT") distributor with an established presence across Southern Africa. The funding will refinance existing debt and support DCC's long-term growth strategy.

DCC is a leading South African distributor of ICT products and solutions, offering a comprehensive portfolio of products across personal computing, printing, enterprise infrastructure and software. The business distributes products from leading global technology manufacturers, including HP, Dell and Lenovo, to an extensive network of resellers, system integrators and retailers across Southern Africa.

Founded in 1988, DCC has grown into an established participant in the Southern African ICT distribution market, with a distribution network and logistics infrastructure serving customers across the region. The business plays an important role in the ICT supply chain, connecting international technology manufacturers with local resellers and retailers.

Mokgome Mogoba, Managing Partner and Founder of Kholo Capital, commented: "We are delighted to support DCC's highly experienced management team as the business enters its next phase of growth. The business is backed by Kleoss Capital, a highly competent private equity investor. This transaction demonstrates how structured mezzanine debt capital can be used to optimise a company's capital structure, refinance existing debt and provide the financial flexibility required to support sustainable growth. DCC has established itself as one of South Africa's leading ICT distributors, with a strong market position underpinned by longstanding relationships with leading global technology manufacturers, an extensive reseller network and well-established logistics and distribution capabilities."

Zaheer Cassim, Managing Partner and Founder of Kholo Capital, added: "Over nearly four decades, DCC has built a formidable distribution platform, combining extensive market reach, strong logistics capabilities and a deep understanding of its channel partners' needs. Beyond its commercial strengths, DCC's investment in youth employment, support for learners with disabilities and SME reseller development reflects a commitment to inclusive growth. Its adoption of solar energy and water-saving measures further demonstrates a practical approach to responsible business. We believe DCC is well positioned to capitalise on opportunities across the Southern African ICT market, and we are pleased to partner with management in advancing growth that delivers both commercial value and meaningful social impact."

Hale Matsipa, Managing Partner of Kleoss, said: "Kleoss Capital has valued the opportunity to work with Kholo Capital on this transaction, which positions DCC for its next phase of growth. It also reflects the positive momentum in South Africa's private markets and marks another successful collaboration between Kleoss Capital and a fellow private markets investor. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Kholo Capital team."

Carlos Ferreira, CEO of DCC, added: "DCC's shareholders, comprising senior management and Kleoss Capital, are pleased to introduce Kholo Capital into the capital structure of the DCC group. DCC has been growing steadily over the years with the addition of certain key brands and the expansion of our existing footprint within our established vendor relationships. Together with our capital partners, we look forward to the next chapter in the evolution of the business with continued optimism."

Deneys acted as legal counsel to Kholo Capital.

Webber Wentzel acted as legal counsel to DCC.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kholo Capital.

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For more information contact:

Zaheer Cassim

Managing Partner – Kholo Capital Mezzanine Debt Fund I

[email protected]

Tel: +27-83-786-0845

Mokgome Mogoba

Managing Partner – Kholo Capital Mezzanine Debt Fund I

[email protected]

Tel: +27-79-631-5860

Kholo Capital Mezzanine Debt Fund I

34 Melrose Boulevard

Melrose Arch

2076 

South Africa

About Kholo Capital Mezzanine Debt Fund I:

Kholo Capital Mezzanine Debt Fund I is a R1.4 billion specialist fund providing flexible mezzanine debt solutions to mid-market businesses across Southern Africa. The fund is designed to bridge the gap between senior debt and equity, enabling companies to access growth and acquisition capital while minimising equity dilution for shareholders.

The fund typically provides investments ranging from R70 million to R205 million to businesses generating a minimum of R25 million in EBITDA per annum. Kholo Capital invests in sectors with high social impact including infrastructure, financial services, healthcare, education, telecommunications, renewable energy, food and services. The investment mandate excludes primary mining, primary agriculture, micro-lending, gambling, ammunition, tobacco, hard liquor and government-related businesses. Larger transactions can be supported through co-investment from limited partners or through syndicated structures.

Kholo Capital provides tailored funding solutions for a variety of transaction types, including growth capital, acquisitions, management buy-outs, leveraged buy-outs, private equity transactions, share buybacks, refinancing of shareholder loans and dividend recapitalisations. The fund also partners with businesses to optimise their capital structures, including refinancing portions of senior bank debt to improve cash flow and create additional headroom for reinvestment and expansion.

Mezzanine debt funding is typically structured as a 4- to 7-year instrument with flexible, bullet repayment profiles, allowing companies to service interest during the term while deferring capital repayment to maturity. This structure supports stronger cash flow management and enables businesses to reinvest in growth initiatives. The fund targets returns of more than 17%, combining yield with potential equity upside.

Kholo Capital adopts a disciplined investment approach, with leverage typically capped at 3.5x to 4.0x total debt to EBITDA and up to 80% loan-to-value, ensuring a minimum 20% equity buffer. Investments are made in established, cash-generative businesses, and the fund does not invest in distressed situations or standalone greenfield projects without appropriate guarantees from qualifying operating entities.

Founded in 2020 by Mokgome Mogoba and Zaheer Cassim, Kholo Capital is a specialist alternative investment manager with deep expertise across senior debt, mezzanine debt and private equity. The investment team has more than 100 years of combined experience and has collectively deployed over R50 billion across more than 90 transactions in over 10 African countries. The firm is led by a cohesive and experienced team with a long-standing track record of working together over two decades.

Website: www.KholoCapital.com

SOURCE Kholo Capital

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Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners acquires 25% stake in Five Estuaries Offshore Wind Farm

The acquisition, made through its fifth flagship fund, strengthens Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners' UK energy infrastructure portfolio and supports delivery of the up to 1,080MW project off the Essex and Suffolk coast.

COPENHAGEN, Denmark, 13 October 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), through its fifth flagship fund, Copenhagen Infrastructure V (CI V), has acquired the 25% share previously held by the Macquarie-led consortium in the Five Estuaries Offshore Wind Farm project. CIP joins EDF power solutions (33.33%), ESB (20.83%), and Sumitomo Corporation (20.83%) to take the project forward.

Five Estuaries Offshore Wind Farm is located approximately 40km off the north Essex and south Suffolk coast. The up to 1,080MW project received development consent in December 2025 following over four years of development. Once operational, it is expected to generate enough electricity to meet the equivalent needs of approximately one million average UK homes annually.

This updated partnership structure marks a significant milestone for the Five Estuaries project, bringing together a wealth of expertise in developing, financing, and operating large-scale offshore wind farms globally. CIP, which continues to expand its portfolio of UK energy infrastructure investments, will work closely with all project partners as a long-term investor in the project.

Kunal Patel, Partner at Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, said: "Offshore wind offers the UK a golden opportunity to deploy clean, home-grown energy at scale, to lower and stabilise electricity bills, create highly skilled jobs as well as bolster energy security and deliver economic growth. CIP is delighted to be further expanding our UK investment portfolio through acquiring a stake in Five Estuaries Offshore Wind Farm, and we look forward to working with partners to deliver the project."

Matthieu Hue, CEO of EDF power solutions UK and Ireland, said: "We are delighted to join our partners in the Five Estuaries Offshore Wind Farm project. This project perfectly complements our existing portfolio in the UK and Ireland. We look forward to working closely with our partners and local stakeholders to bring the project online and support the UK's energy independence and security."

Since the project received development consent, work has been ongoing to further the project design, start early procurement work, and continue engagement with landowners, communities, and other stakeholders.

Notes to Editors

For more information about the Five Estuaries project, please visit fiveestuaries.co.uk.

About CIP

Founded in 2012, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners P/S (CIP) is a global fund manager and leading investor in energy infrastructure. CIP builds value that matters by developing and constructing critical infrastructure projects that shape the future of energy.

Through its funds, CIP invests in power generation (solar and wind), energy storage, transmission and distribution, advanced bioenergy, low-carbon fuels and carbon capture.

With 15 funds currently under management, CIP is trusted by over 200 of the world's largest and most sophisticated institutions, having raised EUR ~43 billion to date. CIP has projects in more than 30 countries, with presence on the ground through a network of +2,300 professionals.

For more information, visit cip.com.

About EDF power solutions

EDF power solutions UK and Ireland (www.edf-re.uk) is a subsidiary of EDF Group, one of the world's largest low carbon electricity companies, and our investment and innovation is reducing costs for consumers and bringing significant benefits for communities.

With our operating portfolio of 50 renewable energy sites including battery, onshore and offshore wind we are providing much needed affordable, low carbon electricity. We have an expanding portfolio of wind, battery and solar projects in planning, development and construction with plans to reach 10 GW by 2035.

About ESB

ESB was established in 1927 as a statutory body under the Electricity (Supply) Act, 1927. With a holding of 97.1%, ESB is majority owned by the Irish Government. The remaining 2.9% is held by the trustees of an Employee Share Ownership Plan. As a strong, diversified utility, ESB operates across the electricity market, from generation through transmission and distribution, to supply of customers in addition to using our networks to carry fibre for telecommunications.

Visit esb.ie to learn more about ESB.

About Sumitomo Corporation

Sumitomo Corporation (TYO: 8053) is an integrated trading and business investment company with a strong global network comprising offices in over 60 countries and regions. The Sumitomo Corporation Group consists of approximately 500 companies and 80,000 employees on a consolidated basis. The Group's business activities are spread across the following ten groups: Steel, Automotive, Transportation & Construction Systems, Diverse Urban Development, Communication Services, Digital AI, Lifestyle Business, Mineral Resources, Chemicals Solutions and Energy Transformation Business. Sumitomo Corporation is committed to creating greater value for society under the corporate message of "Enriching lives and the world," based on Sumitomo's business philosophy passed down for over 400 years.

Media Contact

E-mail: [email protected] / Mobile: +45 2844 7756

Visit www.sumitomocorp.com/en/global to learn more.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

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BingX Launches U.S. Stock Trading Through Alpaca, Offering Multi-Asset Access to 7,000+ U.S. Stocks and ETFs

PANAMA CITY, Oct. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- BingX, the world's leading multi-asset trading platform, today launched U.S. stock trading through an integration with Alpaca, a global provider of brokerage infrastructure and APIs. The new offering gives eligible users access to more than 7,000 U.S. stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs), expanding the range of traditional financial assets available on BingX and advancing its multi-asset strategy.

Through Alpaca's brokerage infrastructure, eligible BingX users can access U.S. stocks and ETFs directly through the platform, using their existing crypto assets to fund trades without the need for fiat deposits or a separate brokerage account managed directly by the user.

Unlike tokenized instruments that track stock prices, the offering provides access to U.S. securities through brokerage infrastructure, including the associated custody, clearing, and settlement processes. It marks another step in bringing digital assets and traditional financial markets together with a unified trading experience.

Key features include:

- Trade Stocks with USDT and USDC: Put your assets to work with no fiat, no wire transfers, and no additional brokerage accounts.

- Explore 7,000+ Stocks and ETFs: From established market leaders to companies shaping emerging market trends, diversify your portfolio on one unified platform.

- Get Started With Just $5: Access leading U.S. stocks and ETFs for as little as $5.

- Trade 24/5: Stay connected to the U.S. markets with trading access 24 hours a day, five days a week.

- Choose How You Trade: Place market or limit orders for greater flexibility in how you enter and exit positions.

"Expanding access to U.S. stocks is another step in making global market opportunities more accessible to BingX users," said Kevin Lee, Chief Strategy Officer at BingX. "As markets become increasingly interconnected, developments across equities, commodities, currencies and digital assets can influence one another. By extending access to U.S. stocks through Alpaca's brokerage infrastructure, we're giving users more ways to engage with these markets within a unified multi-asset platform."

"BingX has built a global community that is looking to access several markets and asset classes from one platform," said Yoshi Yokokawa, Co-Founder and CEO of Alpaca. "Our infrastructure and APIs are designed so partners like BingX can add U.S. equities alongside their existing offerings through Alpaca. We're pleased to support BingX as they bring U.S. stock trading to their users around the world."

To celebrate the launch, BingX is hosting a limited-time $200,000 Stocks Mystery Box, running from October 9 to 23. Eligible users can receive $10 in Tesla (TSLA) stock upon completing their first U.S. stock trade. The launch reinforces BingX's broader ambition to connect digital assets with traditional financial markets, giving traders more ways to navigate an increasingly interconnected global economy.

About BingX

Founded in 2018, BingX is the world's leading multi-asset trading platform, serving more than 40 million users worldwide. From crypto to traditional markets, BingX connects users with a broad range of assets and opportunities across global markets through one unified platform.

With perpetual futures, TradFi offerings, spot trading and copy trading, alongside AI-powered innovations, BingX delivers a reliable, intelligent, and responsive trading experience designed to help traders navigate evolving markets and act on opportunities with greater confidence and efficiency.

BingX has been the Principal Partner of Chelsea FC since 2024 and became the Official Team Partner of Scuderia Ferrari HP in 2026.

For more information, please visit: https://bingx.com/

About Alpaca

Alpaca is a global agent-first brokerage and clearing infrastructure that powers access to traditional and on-chain asset classes. Today, Alpaca supports over 10 million brokerage accounts across hundreds of fintechs and institutions in more than 50 countries, backed by $400 million in funding. For more information, visit https://alpaca.markets/.

SOURCE BingX

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