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Basic-Fit Aims High with Record Club Openings and Ambitious Growth Targets

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – Basic-Fit, the renowned low-cost fitness chain, is on a trajectory of unprecedented growth, surpassing four million members and launching a record number of clubs in the first half of 2024. The company's ambitious expansion plans and commitment to sustainability were highlighted by CEO Rene Moos, who reaffirmed the company's target of achieving a 30% return on invested capital (ROIC) for each new club at maturity.

Record-Breaking Expansion and Financial Performance

Basic-Fit's impressive expansion has seen the opening of 135 clubs in the first six months of 2024, bringing the total number of clubs to 1,537. Moos stated, "For each new club, a return on invested capital (ROIC) of at least 30% is expected at maturity." This ambitious goal aligns with the growing trend in the fitness sector, with other major players also aiming for higher ROIC.

Lactalis Group Pledges to Nourish the World and Nurture a Sustainable Future

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – Lactalis Group, the global leader in dairy, today reiterated its steadfast commitment to providing nutritious dairy products while actively contributing to a more sustainable future. With a legacy spanning over nine decades, the company champions dairy's vital role in balanced diets, recognizing the increasing challenges of population growth, health concerns, and environmental impact.

"Since 1933, we have chosen dairy products – the choice for the future," states Lactalis, underscoring its enduring belief in the value of dairy. This core conviction has propelled the company to its position as the world's foremost dairy expert, developing and perfecting products to meet the evolving needs of diverse communities worldwide.

A Vision for a Responsible and Resilient Dairy Industry

S&P Global Ratings Elevates Outlook for Gothaer Insurance Group Amidst Strategic Merger

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – S&P Global Ratings (S&P) has revised its outlook for the Gothaer Insurance Group from "stable" to "positive" in light of the group's proposed merger with Barmenia. The 'A' financial strength ratings for Gothaer Allgemeine Versicherung AG, Gothaer Lebensversicherung AG, and Gothaer Krankenversicherung AG have been affirmed, reflecting the group's robust capitalization and earnings.

Merger to Drive Enhanced Competitive Positioning

UNWTO Invests in Africa's Tourism Future with Launch of Specialized Academies in Zambia and Zimbabwe

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has announced a significant investment in the future of African tourism through the establishment of two pioneering Academies in collaboration with the governments of Zambia and Zimbabwe. This strategic initiative aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in the burgeoning African tourism sector and promote sustainable growth within the industry.

ZITHS Mukuni International Academy for Tourism and Hospitality

UNWTO Illuminates Path for Sustainable Tourism Investment in Zambia

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has released a comprehensive investment guide, titled "Tourism Doing Business—Investing in Zambia," aimed at showcasing the nation's burgeoning potential as a prime destination for sustainable tourism investments. This timely publication comes amidst growing international interest in Zambia's unique blend of economic stability, natural beauty, and cultural richness.

Zambia: A Rising Star in African Tourism

"This guide is not just a document; it's a catalyst for transformation," stated UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili. "It's an open invitation to investors worldwide to discover the exceptional opportunities that Zambia's tourism sector holds – opportunities that promise not only financial returns but also contribute to sustainable development, job creation, and community empowerment."

UNWTO Champions "Brand Africa" to Stimulate Investment and Sustainable Tourism Growth

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is spearheading a transformative initiative to amplify "Brand Africa" and drive sustainable tourism development across the continent. The recent high-level forum, "Promoting Africa to Unlock Tourism Investments and the Sector's Growth Potential," held under the auspices of the Regional Commission for Africa, convened public and private sector leaders to identify emerging opportunities and collaboratively address critical challenges facing the African tourism sector.

Empowering Member States and Fostering Collaboration

UN Tourism's Inaugural Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa Sets Course for Sustainable Development

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) successfully convened its first Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The event, held under the patronage of Zimbabwe's First Lady, Dr. Auxillia C. Mnangagwa, and in partnership with the Basque Culinary Center, marked a significant milestone in advancing sustainable tourism and culinary development throughout the continent.

Elevating Africa's Culinary Heritage

The forum brought together a diverse assembly of over 200 delegates from 33 countries, including government officials, representatives from international organizations, chefs, entrepreneurs, and industry experts. The discussions centered on harnessing the power of gastronomy tourism to drive economic growth, empower local communities, and showcase Africa's rich culinary heritage to the world.

CARAVAN SALON 2024: Full Program for the Caravanning Community

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 25, 2024 – Düsseldorf is set to become the epicenter of mobile leisure as it hosts CARAVAN SALON 2024 from August 30 to September 8. This annual event is a celebration of self-determined and independent travel, offering visitors an unparalleled experience of freedom and individuality.

For ten days, Düsseldorf will be the international capital of mobile leisure, featuring an extensive program, special shows, and a plethora of attractions. Spread over 250,000 square meters, more than 750 exhibitors will present the latest caravans, motorhomes, campervans, accessories, expansion parts, tents, mobile homes, vacation destinations, and camping pitches.

Planet Fitness Flexes Global Muscle with First European Gym in Spain

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 24, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 24, 2024 – Planet Fitness, a leading global fitness franchise renowned for its inclusive Judgement Free Zone®, today announced the grand opening of its first European club in Sabadell, Spain. This milestone represents a significant step in the company's international expansion strategy and underscores its commitment to making fitness accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Expanding the Judgement Free Zone®

Planet Fitness has garnered a loyal following with its non-intimidating atmosphere, affordable memberships, and top-tier amenities. With a proven track record of success in the United States, Canada, Latin America, and Australia, the company is now bringing its unique brand of fitness to Spain, where it aims to tap into the growing demand for accessible and welcoming fitness facilities.

Planet Fitness Price Increase Signals Shift in Fitness Industry Landscape

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 24, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 24, 2024 – Planet Fitness, a prominent player in the high-value, low-price (HVLP) gym segment, has recently implemented a significant price increase for its Classic Membership, marking the first such change in nearly three decades. The move, which elevates the monthly fee from $10 to $15, is garnering attention from industry analysts who predict that this strategic decision could reshape the pricing dynamics of the fitness landscape.

A Year of Transformation and Resilience

The past year has presented Planet Fitness with several challenges, including a change in leadership, macroeconomic pressures, and a social media-induced controversy. Despite these hurdles, the company's membership base has continued to grow, approaching an impressive 20 million members, underscoring its resilience and market dominance in the HVLP sector.