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Seef Properties has signed a lease agreement with UAE-based D’lish Café to open the brand’s first outlet in Bahrain at Al Liwan, adding a new premium food and beverage concept to the mixed-use destination in the Seef District of Manama. The deal underscores continued demand for curated dining experiences within lifestyle-led developments and reflects a broader push by property owners to anchor retail assets with recognisable regional brands.

The café, known for its contemporary menu and design-led spaces, is expected to occupy a prominent location within Al Liwan, a development that blends retail, leisure, dining, and community spaces. Executives involved in the agreement said the move aligns with Al Liwan’s positioning as a social hub rather than a conventional shopping centre, where food-led concepts play a central role in footfall generation and dwell time.

Seef Properties described the agreement as part of a wider strategy to deepen its portfolio of lifestyle tenants that appeal to both residents and visitors. The company has been recalibrating its leasing mix across assets to prioritise experiential retail, particularly dining formats that combine casual accessibility with premium presentation. Al Liwan, which hosts a range of cafés, restaurants, and entertainment offerings, has emerged as a flagship for that approach.

For D’lish Café, the Bahrain opening marks its first international expansion, signalling confidence in the kingdom’s dining market and its ability to support differentiated concepts. The brand has built a following in the UAE by focusing on high-quality ingredients, visually distinctive interiors, and menus designed to cater to breakfast, lunch, and evening socialising. Industry observers note that such all-day dining formats have gained traction across Gulf cities as consumer preferences shift towards flexible, experience-driven venues.

Executives familiar with the project said the Bahrain outlet will mirror the brand’s core identity while incorporating local design cues to resonate with the Al Liwan setting. Fit-out work is expected to proceed in line with Seef Properties’ guidelines for sustainability, accessibility, and integration with surrounding public spaces. While an opening date has not been formally announced, preparations are under way to align the launch with peak seasonal footfall at the destination.

The agreement comes at a time when Bahrain’s retail real estate sector is navigating structural changes driven by evolving consumer behaviour. Traditional mall formats have faced pressure from e-commerce and shifting spending patterns, prompting developers to emphasise food, leisure, and community experiences that cannot be replicated online. Analysts tracking the sector say developments that successfully curate strong dining line-ups are better positioned to maintain occupancy levels and rental stability.

Al Liwan’s tenant mix reflects that strategy, with food and beverage outlets accounting for a significant share of leasable space. The addition of D’lish Café is expected to complement existing concepts by targeting a demographic that values premium yet approachable dining. Seef Properties executives have previously indicated that tenant selection is guided by brand strength, operational track record, and the ability to contribute to a cohesive destination experience rather than standalone retail performance.

For D’lish Café, the Bahrain market offers exposure to a consumer base known for high per-capita spending on dining and a strong café culture. Manama’s Seef District, in particular, attracts a mix of residents, office workers, and visitors, providing a diversified customer base. Market analysts note that UAE-based brands expanding into Bahrain often view the kingdom as a strategic entry point for broader regional growth due to regulatory familiarity and cultural alignment.

The partnership also highlights increasing cross-border collaboration within the Gulf’s retail and hospitality sectors. As regional brands mature, developers are leveraging these names to differentiate projects and reinforce destination branding. At the same time, café and restaurant operators are seeking locations that offer built-in footfall and a lifestyle context aligned with their brand positioning.

IBM has set out an ambitious plan to equip five million people across India with skills in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and quantum computing by 2030, deepening its long-running SkillsBuild programme and expanding partnerships with governments, universities and employers to address widening technology talent gaps.

The initiative, led by IBM, centres on scaling IBM SkillsBuild, a free digital learning platform that blends online courses, project-based learning and industry-recognised credentials. The company said the expansion will prioritise job-ready capabilities aligned with fast-evolving enterprise demand, including generative AI applications, cloud security and the foundations of quantum information science.

IBM executives framed the move as a response to structural shifts in the labour market, where automation and AI adoption are reshaping roles faster than traditional education systems can adapt. India’s large and youthful workforce, combined with rapid digitalisation across banking, healthcare, manufacturing and public services, has made skills development a policy and business imperative. Government estimates show millions of new digital roles emerging this decade even as legacy jobs are redefined.

The company plans to deepen curriculum integration with higher education institutions, vocational colleges and secondary schools, embedding SkillsBuild content into coursework while expanding teacher training so faculty can deliver updated material. IBM also intends to widen collaborations with state governments and industry bodies to tailor programmes for local employment needs, particularly in tier-two and tier-three cities where access to advanced training has lagged.

SkillsBuild offers modular pathways that range from introductory digital literacy to advanced certifications, with content developed by IBM practitioners and academic partners. Learners can earn digital badges in areas such as data analysis, AI ethics, cybersecurity fundamentals and cloud computing, alongside exposure to quantum concepts through simulations and guided labs. IBM said it will add more experiential components, including hackathons, internships and employer-linked projects, to strengthen transitions from learning to work.

Cybersecurity has been highlighted as a priority track, reflecting persistent shortages of security professionals and rising risks to critical infrastructure and enterprises. Courses will cover threat analysis, incident response and secure system design, with an emphasis on practical skills that align with global frameworks. In AI, the focus extends beyond coding to include responsible deployment, model governance and sector-specific use cases, areas that employers increasingly cite as gaps among graduates.

Quantum computing, still an emerging field, forms the third pillar of the programme. IBM operates one of the world’s largest fleets of quantum systems accessible via the cloud, and the curriculum introduces learners to quantum mechanics, algorithms and programming tools. While near-term job creation in quantum remains limited, IBM argues that early exposure will build a pipeline of talent capable of supporting research, hardware development and future commercial applications.

The scale of the target reflects IBM’s broader workforce strategy, which has shifted towards skills-based hiring and continuous learning. The company has previously said that formal degrees are no longer the sole proxy for capability, particularly in fast-moving technology domains. By expanding free access to training and credentials, IBM aims to widen participation among women, underrepresented communities and learners from non-traditional backgrounds.

Industry analysts view the plan as part of a competitive race among global technology firms to cultivate ecosystems of skilled users and developers. Cloud providers, software companies and chipmakers have all launched large-scale training commitments, seeking both social impact and long-term commercial benefits as trained professionals tend to adopt familiar platforms. For India, such programmes complement national efforts to boost digital skills and attract high-value investment, though experts caution that quality, relevance and job linkage will determine outcomes.

DraftKings has entered the fast-growing arena of regulated prediction markets with the launch of a new app offering event-based contracts tied to real-world outcomes, marking a notable expansion beyond its core sports-betting business. The company said its CFTC-approved platform, DraftKings Predictions, is live in 38 states, positioning the sports-wagering giant at the intersection of finance, forecasting and gaming at a time of heightened scrutiny over how Americans bet on non-sporting events.

The move places DraftKings alongside a small but expanding group of firms offering event contracts overseen by the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission, a regulatory route that differs from state-by-state gambling laws governing sports betting. Through DraftKings Predictions, users can take positions on outcomes ranging from economic indicators to political and cultural events, structured as contracts rather than traditional wagers. The company argues the model emphasises price discovery and market participation rather than gambling, a distinction that has been central to regulatory debates.

DraftKings said the new product operates through a CFTC-registered entity and complies with federal commodities law, allowing it to reach customers in states where sports betting remains restricted. The company framed the launch as a response to consumer demand for alternative ways to express views on real-world outcomes, while maintaining that safeguards are in place to limit misuse and ensure transparency. Executives have also pointed to risk-management tools and customer-verification standards similar to those used in its sportsbook operations.

The expansion comes as prediction markets gain renewed attention in the United States. Platforms offering event contracts have existed for years, often used by academics and traders to forecast elections or economic trends, but broader public adoption has accelerated as digital platforms have simplified access. Supporters argue these markets aggregate information efficiently and can produce forecasts that rival traditional polling or expert analysis. Critics counter that they blur the line between informed trading and speculative betting, particularly when contracts reference sensitive political events.

Regulators have taken a cautious but engaged stance. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission has emphasised that event contracts must meet standards designed to prevent market manipulation and protect the public interest. Questions over which types of events are permissible have led to consultations and, in some cases, requests for platforms to pause or modify offerings. DraftKings’ entry suggests confidence that its structure aligns with federal expectations, though the space remains under active review.

For DraftKings, the strategic rationale extends beyond regulatory arbitrage. The company has spent the past decade building a large, data-rich user base through daily fantasy sports and online sportsbooks. Prediction markets offer a way to diversify revenue streams and engage customers outside traditional sports calendars, potentially smoothing seasonal fluctuations. Analysts note that margins and customer behaviour in event-contract trading differ from sports betting, with pricing dynamics closer to financial markets than odds-making.

Competition is intensifying. Smaller, specialist platforms pioneered the sector, while mainstream financial apps have shown interest in integrating event contracts as a form of alternative asset. Kalshi, one of the most prominent CFTC-regulated prediction exchanges, has argued that clear federal oversight provides legitimacy and scalability. The arrival of a household name such as DraftKings is likely to increase public awareness and could accelerate policy discussions about the boundaries of the market.

The launch also raises political and ethical considerations. Event contracts linked to elections or public policy outcomes have drawn criticism from lawmakers who worry about perceptions of profiting from democracy or crises. DraftKings has indicated it will curate offerings carefully and comply with any guidance restricting certain categories. The company has previously faced regulatory challenges in the evolution of daily fantasy sports and sports betting, experience that may inform its approach to navigating this new terrain.

Investors are watching closely. DraftKings’ shares have historically been sensitive to regulatory signals and product expansion news, reflecting the company’s reliance on favourable legal frameworks. Entering prediction markets could bolster its growth narrative, but it also exposes the firm to federal-level policy shifts rather than the patchwork of state decisions that shaped sports betting’s rollout. The cost of compliance, technology build-out and potential legal challenges will influence how quickly the segment contributes to earnings.

Netskope has unveiled a new data centre in Malaysia, sharpening its expansion across Southeast Asia as governments and enterprises tighten rules on data residency and demand greater control over cloud security. The move places the US-based cybersecurity firm closer to customers in regulated industries that are accelerating cloud adoption while seeking assurances on where sensitive information is processed and stored.

The Malaysia facility, located to serve customers across the country and neighbouring markets, extends Netskope’s NewEdge network, the company’s global security infrastructure that underpins its secure access service edge offerings. By processing traffic locally, the firm says it can reduce latency, improve performance for cloud applications, and help organisations meet domestic compliance obligations without fragmenting their security architecture.

This expansion reflects a broader shift in Southeast Asia, where data protection regimes have become more explicit and enforcement has intensified. Malaysia’s Personal Data Protection Act, alongside sector-specific requirements for finance, healthcare and telecommunications, has pushed multinational firms to re-evaluate cross-border data flows. Similar pressures are evident in Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand, creating demand for security platforms that combine global reach with local presence.

Netskope’s regional strategy has focused on building infrastructure rather than relying solely on partner facilities. The Malaysia data centre complements existing points of presence across Asia Pacific and is designed to support services such as cloud access security brokerage, secure web gateways and zero trust network access. Company executives have said that proximity is increasingly critical as enterprises migrate mission-critical workloads to software-as-a-service platforms and public clouds.

Industry analysts note that the competitive landscape in cloud security has intensified as vendors race to offer compliant, low-latency services. Global rivals including Zscaler, Palo Alto Networks and Cisco have all invested in regional infrastructure to address sovereignty concerns. What differentiates players, analysts argue, is the ability to deliver consistent policy enforcement across geographies while adapting to local legal frameworks.

Malaysia has emerged as an attractive hub for such investments due to its growing digital economy, improving connectivity and government incentives aimed at data centre development. The country has positioned itself as a neutral base for regional operations, with policymakers encouraging foreign technology firms to establish infrastructure that supports domestic innovation and cross-border trade.

For enterprises, the presence of a local Netskope facility may ease long-standing concerns about routing traffic through distant jurisdictions. Financial institutions, in particular, have faced scrutiny over outsourcing arrangements and third-party risk management. Local processing can simplify audits and reporting while maintaining alignment with global security standards.

The expansion also speaks to changing threat dynamics. Cyber risk in Southeast Asia has risen alongside digitalisation, with ransomware, phishing and cloud misconfigurations posing persistent challenges. Security teams are under pressure to gain visibility across hybrid environments that span on-premise systems, multiple cloud providers and a distributed workforce. Vendors that can aggregate telemetry and enforce zero-trust principles close to the user are gaining traction.

Netskope has invested heavily in research and development to support this approach, including machine learning models that analyse cloud usage patterns and detect anomalous behaviour. The Malaysia data centre will feed into these capabilities, enabling faster inspection and response times for regional customers.

Beyond compliance and security, performance considerations are becoming a board-level issue. Latency can directly affect user productivity and customer experience, particularly for real-time collaboration tools and data-intensive applications. By shortening network paths, local infrastructure can deliver measurable gains, strengthening the business case for in-country deployments.

The move is expected to bolster Netskope’s channel ecosystem in Southeast Asia, where managed security service providers and systems integrators play a central role in enterprise adoption. Local infrastructure allows partners to offer services tailored to national requirements while leveraging a globally recognised platform.

Host Arabia has closed its first edition in Riyadh, positioning the Saudi capital as an emerging focal point for the hospitality and foodservice supply chain at a time when the kingdom is accelerating investment in tourism, leisure and urban development. The three-day event brought together hotel operators, restaurant groups, suppliers and policymakers, underlining the scale of demand being created by new resorts, giga-projects and a fast-expanding domestic dining market.

Held at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Centre, the inaugural edition drew exhibitors and visitors from across the Middle East, Europe and Asia, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s growing pull as a commercial hub for hospitality equipment, food and beverage solutions, technology and design services. Organisers said the turnout exceeded initial expectations, with strong participation from both international brands seeking market entry and local firms aiming to scale alongside national development plans.

The exhibition opened against the backdrop of an ambitious tourism strategy that targets a sharp rise in annual visitors by the end of the decade, supported by large-scale projects such as Diriyah, Qiddiya, NEOM and the Red Sea destination. These developments are reshaping procurement needs for hotels, resorts, serviced apartments and entertainment venues, driving demand for kitchen equipment, sustainable packaging, digital ordering systems and energy-efficient infrastructure. Host Arabia sought to position itself as a platform where these needs could be matched with suppliers and service providers in a single marketplace.

Industry executives attending the event highlighted Riyadh’s transformation into a year-round destination for conferences, sports and entertainment as a key factor behind the exhibition’s timing. International hotel groups are expanding their presence in the capital, while domestic restaurant concepts are scaling rapidly, supported by a young population and rising disposable incomes. This combination has intensified competition and raised standards, placing greater emphasis on quality, efficiency and sustainability across the hospitality value chain.

The programme featured live culinary demonstrations, equipment showcases and panel discussions focused on workforce development, localisation of supply chains and the adoption of smart technologies. Speakers addressed challenges such as staff training, cost pressures and the integration of sustainability targets into daily operations, themes that resonate strongly with operators navigating rapid expansion. Discussions also touched on regulatory alignment and the role of public-private partnerships in supporting sector growth.

Exhibitors ranged from global manufacturers of commercial kitchen equipment and refrigeration systems to regional producers of food ingredients, tableware and interior solutions. Technology providers showcased point-of-sale platforms, inventory management tools and data analytics designed to help operators manage margins and customer experience more effectively. Several participants noted growing interest in solutions that reduce water and energy consumption, reflecting both regulatory expectations and cost considerations in a desert climate.

Government and industry representatives used the gathering to underline the hospitality sector’s contribution to economic diversification and job creation. Training institutions and recruitment firms reported strong engagement from operators seeking to build local talent pipelines, an area seen as critical to sustaining long-term growth. The emphasis on skills development aligned with broader national objectives to increase private-sector employment and reduce reliance on imported labour over time.

Organisers described the Riyadh edition as a strategic step in establishing Host Arabia as an annual fixture, with plans to expand floor space and content in future editions. Feedback from exhibitors pointed to strong deal-making potential, with several reporting on-site negotiations and follow-up meetings scheduled with hotel developers and restaurant groups. The presence of decision-makers from major projects was cited as a key differentiator compared with more mature regional trade shows.

By Nitya Chakraborty Something incredible is happening in Beijing as also in other cities of China in the last five days. The cinema halls showing the American animation film “Zootopia 2” produced by the famous Disney studio are full and the Chinese cine lovers who have not yet seen the film are going mad online […]

The article How A Disney Studio Animation Film “Zootopia 2” Is Boosting China-US Trade Agenda? appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

The United Arab Emirates has consolidated its standing in 2025 as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, underpinned by a surge in non-oil activity, sustained investment inflows and a regulatory framework designed to attract capital and talent. Data released through the year point to broad-based expansion across trade, manufacturing, logistics, tourism, finance and technology, reinforcing a shift away from hydrocarbons as the primary engine of growth.

Non-oil foreign trade climbed 24.5 per cent in the first half of 2025 to AED1.7 trillion, a pace that far exceeds the prevailing global trade growth rate. The increase reflects rising re-exports, stronger demand from Asia, Europe and Africa, and the UAE’s role as a commercial bridge linking major markets. Officials have highlighted gains in machinery, electronics, precious metals, food products and pharmaceuticals, supported by expanded port capacity, faster customs procedures and new trade agreements.

Investment indicators have moved in tandem with trade. The UN Conference on Trade and Development’s World Investment Report 2025 ranked the UAE 10th globally for inbound foreign direct investment in 2024, with inflows of AED167.6 billion. That placing keeps the country among the world’s most attractive destinations for capital, alongside much larger economies, and underscores confidence in the policy environment, infrastructure and legal protections available to investors.

Economic planners attribute the momentum to a combination of structural reforms and targeted incentives. Liberalised ownership rules, long-term residency options for professionals and entrepreneurs, and streamlined licensing have lowered barriers for international firms. Specialised free zones continue to draw companies in logistics, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, fintech and digital services, while onshore jurisdictions have simplified company formation and compliance.

Non-oil GDP growth has been supported by strong domestic demand and an expanding population of skilled workers. Tourism has posted record levels of hotel occupancy and visitor spending, aided by expanded air connectivity and major events that have kept demand resilient across seasons. Retail and hospitality have benefited from rising consumer confidence, while real estate transactions have remained active across residential, commercial and industrial segments.

Manufacturing has emerged as a key contributor, with investments flowing into metals, food processing, pharmaceuticals and building materials. The push to localise supply chains and boost exports has been reinforced by incentives for advanced manufacturing and the adoption of automation and artificial intelligence. Renewable energy and clean technology projects have also attracted capital, aligning economic growth with climate commitments.

The financial sector has played a central role in channelling investment. Banks have reported healthy credit growth to businesses, while capital markets have seen new listings and debt issuance that broaden funding options. Asset managers and private equity firms have expanded regional operations, using the UAE as a base for Middle East, Africa and South Asia strategies. Regulatory clarity in digital assets and fintech has further widened the investor base.

Trade policy has complemented domestic reforms. Comprehensive economic partnership agreements have reduced tariffs and opened access to fast-growing markets, supporting exporters and logistics providers. Improved customs digitisation has shortened clearance times, enhancing the country’s competitiveness as a trans-shipment hub. The scale of non-oil trade growth indicates that these measures are translating into higher volumes rather than merely price effects.

• Chee Choong Ng is appointed as Senior Vice President, Human Resources for Asia Pacific
• Samuel Lee is named Managing Director for Taiwan

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 December 2025 – DHL Express has made two key leadership appointments in Asia Pacific: Chee Choong Ng as Senior Vice President of Human Resources (HR) for Asia Pacific, and Samuel Lee as Managing Director for Taiwan. These appointments, which take effect on January 1, 2026, underscore DHL’s commitment to strengthening its people strategy and accelerating growth in one of the region’s most dynamic markets.

Ken Lee, CEO for Asia Pacific, DHL Express, said, “Finding the right talent is more critical than ever, particularly in today’s volatile environment, where we need to balance the demands of a changing workforce with business priorities. Offering our people pathways to growth also makes us a Great Place to Work, which is why I am proud to see two crucial roles within the region taken up by Chee Choong and Samuel, both with extensive experience in the business.

Chee Choong’s experience in operations and country leadership, combined with his strong focus on people development, makes him the ideal choice to lead our HR strategy. At the same time, Samuel’s track record proves that he will further strengthen our position in Taiwan, a market that is vital to our regional network and global trade.”

Chee Choong Ng is Asia Pacific’s new HR head

Previously the Managing Director for Taiwan, Chee Choong, takes over the Asia Pacific region’s HR portfolio from Mateen Thiruselvaam, who has retired after many years of dedication at DHL Express. Chee Choong brings over two decades of experience within DHL Group and the logistics industry. He first joined DHL in 2004, holding various operational roles before becoming Hong Kong’s Vice President for Operations in 2017. In the last few years, he was tasked to lead Hong Kong and Taiwan, respectively, in 2020 and 2024, where he achieved a record employee engagement rate, and improvements in customer satisfaction and operational excellence levels.

In his new role, Chee Choong will lead strategic initiatives to position DHL Express as the employer of choice in a rapidly evolving workplace landscape. With emerging technologies, changing labor patterns and segment sizes shaping the future of work, Chee Choong’s achievements in people development and engagement will be instrumental in driving HR transformation across the region.

Chee Choong Ng said, “I am honored to take on this role at such a pivotal time. The workplace is undergoing profound changes. We need to remain close to our employees to ensure their needs are met. I look forward to aligning our people strategy and creating an environment where our people can thrive, innovate, and feel valued so that we can better support business goals.”

Samuel Lee as new leader for DHL Express Taiwan

Following Chee Choong’s move, Samuel Lee will take over the role of Managing Director for DHL Express in Taiwan. He has been a seasoned DHL Express leader since 1998. He has an impressive career spanning Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Shanghai, where he played a key role in building and expanding DHL’s strategic hubs in those territories. He was most recently the General Manager of the Central Asia Hub in Hong Kong, achieving record-breaking performance, exceptional employee engagement scores, and the seamless completion of a EUR376 million expansion project in 2023.

Taiwan’s robust technology sector, thriving e-commerce industry, and strong export-oriented economy make it a critical market for DHL Express. Samuel’s deep operational expertise and years of leadership will ensure DHL continues to deliver world-class service and support the growth of businesses in this dynamic market.

Samuel Lee said, “Taiwan is a vibrant market with immense potential, and it holds a unique position in global trade, particularly as a hub for technology and innovation. The team has established a remarkable reputation in Taiwan, and I am proud to be working alongside them. Our focus remains on delivering exceptional service and creating new opportunities for growth to better enhance Taiwan’s role in global supply chains.”

Asia Pacific continues to grow as a powerhouse in global trade, driven by strong manufacturing bases, booming e-commerce, and rapid digitalization. These leadership appointments reaffirm DHL Express’s commitment to delivering excellence and enabling businesses to connect seamlessly across borders.
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DHL – The logistics company for the world

DHL is the leading global brand in the logistics industry. Our DHL divisions offer an unrivalled portfolio of logistics services ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management. With approximately 400,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling global sustainable trade flows. With specialized solutions for growth markets and industries including technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing & energy, auto-mobility and retail, DHL is decisively positioned as “The logistics company for the world”.

DHL is part of DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of approximately 84.2 billion euros in 2024. With sustainable business practices and a commitment to society and the environment, the Group makes a positive contribution to the world. DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics by 2050.

Active Apparel Group Strengthens Lever Style’s Activewear Capabilities

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 December 2025 – Lever Style Corporation (HKEX: 1346, “Lever Style”), has acquired designated assets from Active Apparel Group (“AAG”) through an asset purchase agreement. This marks Lever Style’s seventh acquisition since its initial public offering in 2019. This transaction strengthens Lever Style’s activewear expertise.

Active Apparel Group is a well-established apparel specialist with 38 years of experience serving premium global brands, and deep expertise across activewear, outerwear, and swimwear. AAG’s activewear segment is the fastest growing one in the apparel industry, and it complements Lever Style’s existing strength in the fashion segment. AAG’s product sophistication and customer tier are also on par with Lever Style’s premium positioning, enabling cross-selling opportunities in other product categories and enhancing operating leverage.

Lever Style already has a strong foundation in activewear and performance apparel, serving leading global brands such as Arc’teryx, Columbia Sportswear, Helly Hansen, Spanx, Skims, and J.Lindeberg. The Group also works with a broad portfolio of premium and contemporary brands including Alexander Wang, Theory, Todd Snyder, and others, as well as digitally native brands such as Bonobos and Ministry of Supply.

Active Apparel Group is a production partner for leading technical and lifestyle apparel brands, including Greyson, Johnnie-O, Sun Day Red, Boggi, and Bandit Running.

With the US market rocked by tariffs and Europe still mired in war, 2025 has become a challenging year for the apparel industry. Given the increasing risk of a tariff-induced US recession in 2026, the Group has put more focus on pursuing inorganic growth.

“Bad times are the best times to buy” said Stanley Szeto, Executive Chairman of Lever Style. “This acquisition strengthens our activewear expertise and enables us to deliver greater value to our clients across an even broader range of product categories.”

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About Lever Style

Listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, Lever Style (HKEX 1346) is the world’s premier apparel production platform for premium contemporary and designer brands such as Alexander Wang, Theory, Todd Snyder, and Aimé Leon Dore; active and performance brands such as Arc’teryx, Columbia Sportswear, Helly Hansen, Spanx, Skims, and J.Lindeberg; and digitally native brands and platforms such as Bonobos and Ministry of Supply.

Our supply chain solutions encompass fashion design, prototype development, raw material procurement, production, quality control, and logistics. Our innovative, modularized multi-country platform delivers high-mix, low-volume orders and reduces excess inventory and stockouts. Our versatile approach is rooted in decades of technical expertise gained from working with many of the world’s highest-quality and most demanding brands. We support production for more than 150 brands through a network of more than 100 factories across seven countries: Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and India. A certified B Corp, Lever Style is a committed ESG leader in the apparel production sector.

Learn more at www.leverstyle.com