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– The Brand Offers Guests a Wide Variety of Seven-Day Europe Cruises with No Sea Days Along with Longer Voyages Visiting Ports Nearly Every Day –   

– Norwegian Sun^® Will Offer a Full Baltic Season with Seven- and Nine-Day Open-Jaw Sailings from Copenhagen, Denmark, and for the First-Time Helsinki, as a New Homeport for NCL – 

– Among the 225 New Voyages, Featuring 150 Unique Ports of Call, NCL^® Will Make its Debut in Portree, Scotland; Leirvik (Stord), Norway; and Palamós, Spain – 

MIAMI, Aug. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Norwegian Cruise Line^® (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, has open for sale additional cruises for its 2026 spring/summer season with more port-immersive Europe sailings across Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and Greek Isles across eight ships providing cruisers a variety of sailing lengths and embarkation ports to plan their dream European vacation; in addition to bucket-list itineraries through the South Pacific, warm weather summer voyages through the Western Caribbean, journeys to Canada and New England for the fall season, among other fascinating destinations. 

As part of NCL’s guest-centric itinerary planning, the Brand is offering more seven-day itineraries throughout Europe with many voyages that include limited or no sea days, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves into each destination. Select seven-to-14-day sailings also offer overnight stays in Reykjavik, Iceland; Copenhagen, Denmark; Istanbul, Turkey and more. There are a total of 22 overnights in Europe this season, where cruisers can choose to enjoy late night dinners and nightlife on shore. With 11 unique embarkation ports offering voyages across 10 different European countries, including Helsinki –  a brand-new homeport for NCL – the company is providing travelers the opportunity to begin and end their vacation in the destination that best fulfils their European travel desires. Among the newly open for sale Europe cruises, NCL will call to Portree, Scotland; Leirvik (Stord), Norway; and Palamós, Spain for the very first time.  

“At NCL, we take pride in offering our guests various options to plan where they want to vacation,” said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Whether they choose our seven-day sailings, longer immersive voyages, or cruises that begin and end in a new destination, we make it so our guests can vacation with ease with us from start to finish. From transportation, air programming and so much more, we strive to offer the best service all around.”

Additional highlights from the 225 new and available sailings include:

NORTHERN EUROPE

From June through October 2026, Norwegian Sun will offer a full Baltic season with seven- to 10-day sailings where guests can embark in Copenhagen, Denmark or Helsinki, and visit a port nearly every day including towns in Norway, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Sweden and more. On select nine-day voyages from Helsinki, Norwegian Sun’s itinerary includes an overnight stay in Copenhagen, Denmark where guests can explore the history of the city, visit the famous entertainment district of Nyhavn; or stroll down Stroget, one of the longest pedestrian shopping streets in Europe.

Norwegian Sky^® will commence her second full Europe season on April 19, 2026 with four unique seven-day open-jaw sailings to the Northern Capitals embarking in Le Havre, France and Copenhagen, Denmark, offering an overnight stay in Hamburg, Germany and visiting Zeebruge, Belgium; Tilbury, United Kingdom; and Ijmuiden, Netherlands. The vessel will then cruise a series of 10- and 11-day British Isles voyages from May through Sept. 2026 where NCL will make its debut in Portree, Scotland on its May 17, 2026 sailing.

Travelers looking to take advantage of the long hours of summer daylight in Iceland can embark on one of Norwegian Star’s^® 10- or 11-day Extraordinary Journeys between May and September 2026 embarking in Reykjavik, Iceland or Southampton, UK. With these open-jaw sailings, guests can choose to extend their vacation on land pre- or post-cruise. During the May 21, 2026 voyage, NCL will cruise to Leirvik (Stord), Norway for the very first time, and revisit the port on select 10-day cruises. Known for its attractive harbor, travelers can explore Leirvik’s Sunnhordlandstunet, an open-air museum featuring several historical courtyards, and much more. Norwegian Star’s 11-day Iceland sailings also offer a unique opportunity – an overnight stay in Reykjavik, Iceland – providing more time in destination to explore nature’s wonders.

MEDITERRANEAN AND GREEK ISLES

Beginning April 2026 and through October 2026, NCL’s newest ship, Norwegian Viva^®, will cruise nine and 10-day Western Mediterranean and Greek Isles voyages. To further provide guests with more port time, a selection of the Greek Isles voyages will also include an overnight stay in Istanbul, Turkey for guests to discover the city late into the night. Perfect for those searching for a warm European escape, the itineraries visit popular towns in Turkey, Malta, Italy, Greece, Montenegro and Croatia. These unique open-jaw cruises provide travelers more embarkation and disembarkation port options to choose from including Barcelona, Spain; Venice (Ravenna), Italy; Istanbul, Turkey; and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, allowing them the opportunity to continue their vacation with loved ones on land.

Amongst the new seven-day Western Mediterranean sailings are:

• Norwegian Epic^®: Sailing a variety of open-jaw voyages to and from Barcelona, Spain and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy between May 2026 and October 2026, with calls to Nice/Monaco (Villefranche) and Marseille, France; as well as Messina, Salerno and late-night departures from Livorno, Italy, offering between 10 to 17 hours in port to enjoy a longer shore excursion day trip into a nearby town such as Florence or Pisa, Italy.
• Norwegian Dawn^®: These port-intensive open-jaw cruises between April 2026 and October 2026 offer no sea days and embark and disembark in Barcelona, Spain and Lisbon, Portugal. Ports of call include late departures from Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza, Spain allowing more time for guests to enjoy popular beach clubs on these Mediterranean islands; as well as visits to Portimao, Portugal; Gibraltar; and more.
• Norwegian Gem^®: On May 10, 2026, the ship will start her Europe season with a sailing from Barcelona, Spain where NCL will make its debut in Palamós, Spain, known for scenic hiking paths and beautiful beaches, during the ship’s voyage. Norwegian Gem will also call for the first time in Salerno, Italy and Nice/Monaco (Villefranche), France. Following this sailing, the ship will then embark on a series of cruises to and from Venice (Ravenna) and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy with no sea days calling to Greece; Montenegro; and Croatia, where guests can fully enjoy Dubrovnik, Croatia as select itineraries offer a departure late into the evening.

Norwegian Pearl’s^® seven-day Greek Isles voyages from May 2026 through October 2026 is the ideal cruise for guests looking to island hop through picturesque Greece. Cruisers have the option to choose from varied itineraries with late departures in Santorini and Mykonos, Greece; as well as Dubrovnik, Croatia; to fully immerse themselves in the destination to enjoy a beautiful sunset, indulge in a lively evening dinner, and more. Embarkation and disembarking ports for these voyages alternate between Venice (Ravenna), Italy and Athens (Piraeus), Greece providing guests greater vacation choices.

WESTERN CARIBBEAN, AND CANADA & NEW ENGLAND

Norwegian Escape^® will offer guests seven-day roundtrip sailings to the Western Caribbean from New Orleans between April 12, 2026 through May 10, 2026, followed by seven-day roundtrip sailings from Miami between May 24, 2026 and Aug. 9, 2026. Both itineraries will visit Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatán (Bay Islands), Honduras; and Harvest Caye, NCL’s 75-acre resort-style destination in Southern Belize.

To kick off her fall season, Norwegian Escape will offer a selection of seven-day roundtrip Canada & New England voyages from New York City between August 2026 and October 2026. During her Aug. 28, 2026 sailing, the ship will call to Boston for the very first time, making it the first Breakaway Plus class ship to visit the city. The itinerary takes guests through a journey to Portland, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick and Halifax, Nova Scotia in Canada; to enjoy the fall foliage and bask in the cool fall weather.

IMMERSIVE VOYAGES WITH NORWEGIAN SPIRIT^®

From April 22, 2026 through July 3, 2026 and Sept. 17, 2026 through Nov. 17, 2026, Norwegian Spirit^® will offer a variety of open-jaw South Pacific sailings between 11- and 13-day voyages calling to New Caledonia; Fiji; Samoa Islands; French Polynesia and the Hawaii islands. Guests have a variety of embarkation ports to choose from including Sydney; Papeete, French Polynesia; Honolulu; and Lautoka, Fiji – a brand new embarkation port for Norwegian Spirit.

For travelers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime cruising experience to explore Alaska and Hawaii, affectionately named NCL’s “Fire and Ice” voyages, Norwegian Spirit will offer four unique 16-day sailings starting July 15, 2026 through Sept. 1, 2026. The voyages offer embarkation in Honolulu or Vancouver, Canada and visit bucket-list destinations such as the dreamlike and warm-weather islands of Kahului (Maui), Hilo and Nawiliwili (Kauai), Hawaii; as well as the majestic and cool-weather towns of Ketchikan, Skagway and Juneau, Alaska.

For B-roll of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, please click here.

For full details about the Company’s spring and summer 2026 worldwide itineraries and its award-winning 19-ship fleet, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.

About Norwegian Cruise Line

As the innovator in global cruise travel, Norwegian Cruise Line^® has been breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising for 57 years. Most notably, the cruise line revolutionized the industry by offering guests the freedom and flexibility to design their ideal vacation on their preferred schedule with no assigned dining and entertainment times and no formal dress codes. Today, its fleet of 19 contemporary ships sail to 450 of the world’s most desirable destinations, including Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island in the Bahamas and its resort destination Harvest Caye in Belize. Norwegian Cruise Line not only provides superior guest service from land to sea, but also offers a wide variety of award-winning entertainment and dining options as well as a range of accommodations across the fleet, including solo-traveler staterooms, club balcony suites, and The Haven by Norwegian^®, the company’s ship-within-a-ship concept. For additional information or to book a cruise, contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com. For the latest news and exclusive content, visit the NCL Newsroom and follow Norwegian Cruise Line on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok and YouTube @NorwegianCruiseLine; and Twitter @CruiseNorwegian.

Norwegian Cruise Line is a wholly owned subsidiary of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH). To learn more, visit www.nclhltd.com.

SOURCE Norwegian Cruise Line

West Hollywood Makes It Easy To Discover What’s New and Next in Wellness This September With More Than 50 Venues Offering Something Special

WEST HOLLYWOOD, Calif., Aug. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Nestled at the heart of cutting-edge wellness and fitness innovation, West Hollywood proudly announces the launch of West Hollywood Mind + Body Month, 30-days of special offers during September 2024. West Hollywood Mind + Body Month marks a perfect opportunity to book your next visit to West Hollywood to experience special offers surrounding fitness studios, rest + recovery amenities, mindfulness, and wellness retail.

The month-long program aims to not only attract attention from wellness-seeking travelers but also to reacquaint local and regional markets to the variety of West Hollywood’s dynamic wellness offerings, packed within the city’s 1.9 square miles and available year-round. West Hollywood Mind + Body Month solidifies the city’s established reputation as the epicenter for tried and true wellness, as well as new experiences, where fitness brands are often launched and tested before hitting the mainstream. West Hollywood stands as a leader among United States destinations able to offer such a densely packed punch of wellness offerings, and where health and overall well-being are a priority for both visitors and locals.

West Hollywood Mind + Body Month will have something for everyone. Participating businesses range from luxurious West Hollywood hotels and serene spas to energetic yoga studios and state-of-the-art fitness centers. All special offers featured during September 2024 are aimed to entice wellness-seeking newcomers and welcome back locals, many of which turn to many signature West Hollywood wellness offerings for the same benefits of rejuvenation, beauty, fitness and clarity of mind.

Create your own journey through West Hollywood Mind + Body Month promotional offers, events and special wellness packages wrapped in signature West Hollywood-fashion, including fitness classes, mindfulness sessions, rest & relaxation in California’s most walkable city and the ultimate destination for mind and body rejuvenation.

“We are thrilled to launch West Hollywood Mind + Body Month, highlighting West Hollywood as the premier destination for wellness and fitness,” states Tom Kiely, President and CEO of West Hollywood Travel + Tourism. “West Hollywood Mind + Body Month not only celebrates our community’s commitment to health but also showcases West Hollywood’s vibrant spirit and innovative offerings in the wellness industry.”

For more information on participating in West Hollywood Mind + Body Month visit WehoWellness.com. Join in celebrating wellness, fitness, and the vibrant spirit of West Hollywood throughout September 2024.

About West Hollywood Travel + Tourism Board
West Hollywood Travel + Tourism Board is the official marketing organization that invites visitors to West Hollywood, California, a walkable, 1.9-square-mile city in the heart of Los Angeles. Located at the base of the Hollywood Hills and adjacent to Beverly Hills, West Hollywood is a creative and progressive city that embodies the quintessential L.A. lifestyle. West Hollywood is home to 20 hotels and comprises three main districts: the world-famous Sunset Strip with unparalleled nightlife, eclectic and LGBTQ-friendly Santa Monica Boulevard, and the Design District known for its sought-after shopping and dining. West Hollywood enjoys a year-round moderate climate and thanks to its prime location and hip atmosphere, West Hollywood serves as home and playground to many celebrities. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@visitweho). For more information, please visit www.visitwesthollywood.com.

Media Contact:
Ballantines PR
[email protected]

SOURCE Visit West Hollywood

Betr bolsters its content and technology capabilities and fully vertically integrates product

MIAMI, Aug. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Betr Holdings, Inc. (Betr), a leading sports gaming and media company, announced today that it has acquired a license to Huddle Tech’s sports gaming technology, allowing Betr to utilize and build upon the IP to power the company’s sports gaming platform. This license allows Betr to fully leverage Huddle Tech’s advanced technology stack which includes best-in-class odds-making, risk and trading tooling, and content that spans Same Game Parlays (SGP), Same Game Parlays Plus (SGP+), micro-markets, player props, futures, exotics, and traditional markets like moneyline, point spread, and over/unders – with all capabilities spanning both pre-match and in-play.

Betr has already integrated Huddle Tech’s software in its new sportsbook platform, which remains on track to launch ahead of the 2024 NFL season. The new Betr Sportsbook will initially launch in Ohio and Virginia, where the company had been operating its beta sportsbook product. Betr has received temporary sports wagering licenses in Indiana and Maryland, and has secured market access for sports wagering in Pennsylvania, Colorado, and Kentucky.

“We expect this transaction to be transformative for Betr, as we now have accelerated our product roadmap by years, have vertically integrated our product and therefore have further improved an already strong gross margin profile for our business, and will be more advanced or at least on par from a sports gaming content standpoint than our competitors,” said Joey Levy, Founder and CEO of Betr. “We now have the capability to build our own product and technology and are no longer reliant on third parties in a significant way.”

“We are thrilled to see Betr utilize our software technology to enhance their sports gaming offerings,” said Francesco Borgosano, CEO of Huddle. “Betr’s vision aligns perfectly with our commitment to innovation and excellence in the iGaming sector, and we look forward to supporting their growth and success in the U.S. market.”

About Huddle

Huddle is a next-generation technology provider building advanced, proprietary data-driven solutions designed to transform the user experience and unlock the true potential of iGaming operators. By combining infrastructure that collects and organizes disparate data sets in near real-time and proprietary algorithms developed by some of the brightest minds in the industry, Huddle provides best-in-class solutions for gaming operators while creating cost-saving operational efficiencies. Huddle’s solution provides the automated pricing of basketball, football, tennis, ice hockey, and baseball, both pre-match and in-play.

About Betr

Founded in 2022 by Joey Levy and Jake Paul, Betr is a leading sports gaming and sports media company focused on enhancing the consumption of sports through entertainment. Betr’s gaming products are differentiated through a unique product experience with a simplified user interface that is catered to the casual sports fan, enabling Betr to capture more of the underpenetrated online gaming addressable market. Betr began with a beta version of its Online Sports Betting (OSB) product, which only offered microbetting markets such as the next play in a football game or the next pitch in a baseball game, before launching its real-money Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) product, Betr Picks, in 24 states. Betr plans on launching its V1 Sportsbook product with full sportsbook capabilities ahead of the 2024 NFL season, as well as its iGaming vertical with the launch of Betr Casino by the end of 2024. Betr’s media division, Betr Media, is the fastest growing sports betting media brand in the United States that has grown to over 7.3 million followers, 4 billion impressions, and 209 million engagements across its social channels since publicly launching in August 2022. Betr Media is able to effectively reach and engage its audience at scale given its large social following coupled with its unique combination of in-house media talent and production, with an emphasis on original short-form video content.

For more information on Betr, visit betr.app or follow @betr on TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter. To learn more about responsible play, please visit betr.app/responsibility.

SOURCE Betr Holdings, Inc.

• Airline adds nonstop international service between Nashville and both Punta Cana and Cabo San Lucas/Los Cabos and between Sacramento and Puerto Vallarta beginning March 8, 2025*
• Increases flights to support fans traveling for fall football matchups
• Continues strengthening network with new seasonal and redeye service 

DALLAS, Aug. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) extended its flight schedule today, allowing Customers to book travel through April 7, 2025. The airline is offering Customers new flight options including more international service and additional flights to get Customers to their favorite football games. The extended schedule also includes additional seasonal and redeye flying.

“With kids returning to school across the country, there’s no better time for parents to show off their Big Flex and book an incredible spring break trip,” said Jennifer Bridie, Vice President of Marketing at Southwest Airlines^®. “Thanks to our world-renowned flexibility, two free checked bags**, and a schedule that flexes with travelers’ demands, Customers can book their flights today and secure their spring getaway.”

Swimsuits and Passports Required
As Nashville’s largest airline, Southwest^® expands its offerings with new weekly international service. Beginning March 8, 2025, Southwest will offer Saturday service between:

Nashville and Cabo San Lucas/Los Cabos, Mexico*
Nashville and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic*

The international routes complement the existing service between Nashville and Cancun. Southwest also announced it will begin Saturday service between Sacramento and Puerto Vallarta* on March 8, 2025.

New Nonstop Routes 
Southwest also announced nonstop service beginning March 6, 2025, between:

Austin and Milwaukee (Weekdays)
Austin and Reno, Nev. (Less than daily)
Nashville and Indianapolis (Daily)
Sacramento, Calif. and Tucson, Ariz. (Weekends)

More Flights for Fall Fun 
As the official airline of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), Southwest is proud to offer even more service so that SEC fans can cheer on their favorite teams on the road. In addition to previously announced flights to support football fans, the airline today added service between Florida and Austin for an anticipated key SEC matchup. These extra flights are now available for booking between Tampa, Fla., and Austin on Nov. 7 and Nov. 10.

Responding to Customer demand, the airline is adding more service for fall college and professional football matchups with service between:

Dallas and Lubbock, Texas (Game is on Nov. 9)
Omaha, Neb., and Los Angeles (LAX) (Game is on Nov. 16)
Columbus, Ohio, and Chicago (Midway) (Game is on Nov. 16)
Cleveland and New Orleans for a Sunday matchup on Nov. 17

Southwest is also gearing up to support one of the world’s largest rodeos, which takes place annually in Las Vegas. The carrier is adding seven flights to get rodeo fans to and from the big event between Dec. 5 and Dec. 15. Customers can visit Southwest.com to find the itinerary that works best for them on the days they wish to travel.

Flying Overnight 
With the airline launching overnight flying on Feb. 13, 2025, today’s schedule extension brings more redeye flying options for travelers. Beginning March 6, 2025, travelers can travel on overnight flights departing from Denver, San Diego, and Sacramento in addition to previously announced service from Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. Customers are encouraged to visit Southwest.com to check itineraries.

These flights and the carrier’s full schedule through April 7, 2025, are available for booking at Southwest.com.

*Subject to government approvals.
**First and second checked bags. Weight and size limits apply.

ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO.     
Southwest Airlines Co. operates one of the world’s most admired and awarded airlines, offering its one-of-a-kind value and Hospitality at 117 airports across 11 countries. Southwest took flight in 1971 to democratize the sky through friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel and now carries more air travelers flying nonstop within the United States than any other airline¹. Based in Dallas and famous for an Employee-first corporate Culture, Southwest maintains an unprecedented record of no involuntary furloughs or layoffs in its history. By empowering its more than 74,000² People to deliver unparalleled Hospitality, the maverick airline cherishes a passionate loyalty among more than 137 million Customers carried in 2023. That formula for success brought industry-leading prosperity and 47 consecutive years³ of profitability for Southwest Shareholders (NYSE: LUV). Southwest leverages a unique legacy and mission to serve communities around the world including harnessing the power of its People and Purpose to put communities at the Heart of its success. Learn more by visiting Southwest.com/citizenship. As the airline with Heart, Southwest has set a goal to work toward achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050⁴. Southwest has also set near-term targets and a three-pillar strategy to achieve its environmental goals. Learn more by visiting Southwest.com/planet.   

¹Based on U.S. Dept. of Transportation quarterly Airline Origin & Destination Survey since Q1 2021  
²Fulltime-equivalent active Employees       
³1973-2019 annual profitability     
⁴Our net zero by 2050 goal includes Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 Category 3 emissions only and excludes any emissions associated with non-fuel products and services, such as inflight service items. 

SOURCE Southwest Airlines Co.

Data also shows that frontline hospitality managers face high stress levels, understaffing and long working hours, severely impacting employee engagement

WATERLOO, ON, Aug. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The hospitality industry is a rapidly changing environment, and managers are facing multiple challenges in their daily work, from dealing with burnout and higher guest expectations to low tips and outdated training.

In a recent survey of 500 U.S. hospitality frontline managers, Axonify found that nearly half (47%) are experiencing burnout from the demands of their jobs. Additionally, 68% of managers say members of their teams have also expressed burnout and 64% reveal that workers have left their roles expressly due to burnout.

“Hospitality has seen its ups and downs over the last decade, often hit hard by varying socioeconomic factors like worker shortages and increased cost of living,” said Carol Leaman, CEO and Co-Founder at Axonify. “Our data highlights the urgent need for companies to take a modern and agile approach to training that provides workers with the knowledge and skills to successfully handle the tasks and challenges of their jobs today while also keeping them engaged and motivated at work.”

According to managers, some of the main factors contributing to increased burnout include high stress levels (73%), understaffing (70%), long working hours (67%), customer/guest volatility or escalations (53%), lack of stress management support/well-being support initiatives (52%) and changing guest expectations (52%). To make matters worse, more than half (54%) of frontline managers say their company doesn’t currently offer workers training around mental health and well-being.

Nearly a third (61%) of frontline hospitality managers also say they’ve noticed guests leaving lower tips on average this year. According to managers, lower tips are increasing frustration among workers, causing them to lash out in a variety of ways, including quitting (49%), leaving their shift early (47%), having an emotional reaction like crying or yelling (46%) and posting about their experience on social media (41%).

Axonify’s survey also found that hospitality workers need stronger training. More than a third (38%) of managers say they and their staff frequently encounter situations at work that they feel unprepared to handle or inadequately trained to navigate. Also, 19% of frontline hospitality managers say their company’s current training programs don’t help their employees stay engaged and motivated in their roles or within the company.

To help hospitality workers have a better, long-lasting learning experience, employers should prioritize training programs that help boost employee engagement as 17% of managers say more engaged workers would be the best benefit for their staff when it comes to overall worker well-being.

Additional findings from Axonify’s 2024 frontline hospitality survey reveal:

• More than half (54%) of frontline hospitality managers believe “unskilling” (i.e., when the skills required for a worker to complete a particular job/task are reduced or eliminated as a result of technological advancement) is happening in the hospitality/food & beverage industry.
• Despite the challenges, a third (66%) are optimistic about the future of the hospitality/food & beverage industry in terms of workforce satisfaction and stability.
• Nearly half (48%) of frontline hospitality managers have had to ask a guest to leave or ban a guest from returning within the last year due to their poor treatment of workers.
• More than a quarter (28%) are concerned they and their teams are unable to meet customer/guests’ expectations today.
• On average, managers ranked “labor shortages/lack of talent/overworked staff” as the top challenges creating the most negative impact on the hospitality industry.

“These findings show that traditional approaches to training and employee engagement are no longer sufficient,” said Leaman. “Companies must rethink how they train and support frontline teams and make a shift to dynamic, continuous learning programs that allow them to stay ahead of the continuously evolving nature of many industries like hospitality. At Axonify, we’re committed to empowering the frontline workforce with the tools and resources they need to meet the demands of their job and customers while also thriving in their roles and being actively engaged.”

For additional survey findings from Axonify, visit https://axonify.com/blog/hospitality-survey/. 

Survey methodology: Axonify surveyed 500 frontline hospitality managers above the age of 18 in the U.S. using the online insights platform Pollfish. This survey was completed in Q3 2024.

About Axonify
Axonify is the proven frontline enablement solution that gives employees everything they need to learn, connect and get things done. It starts with brain science and AI to drive knowledge retention through bite-sized microlearning and daily intelligent reinforcement. Embedded two-way communication and feedback ensure your staff is engaged and informed, no matter the scale of your organization and guided task management shows employees exactly how to put their training to use, every single day. With an industry-leading 80% user engagement rate, companies use Axonify to deliver next-level CX, higher sales, improved workplace safety and lower turnover. Axonify enables over 3.5 million frontline workers in 160+ countries, with over 250 customers including Lowe’s, Kroger, Walmart and Citizens Bank. Founded in 2011, Axonify is headquartered in Waterloo, ON Canada. For more information, visit axonify.com. 

Media Contact:
SHIFT Communications for Axonify
[email protected] 

SOURCE Axonify

MIAMI, Aug. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Dive into the inspiring world of global entrepreneurship with “How to Build a Billion Dollar Brand,” a full feature documentary that chronicles the remarkable journey of Naked Diablo, a premium tequila brand. The film follows the Fitzpatrick family and their strategic partners as they navigate the complex global markets, from Dubai to the Bahamas, revealing the relentless spirit and dedication required to create a billion-dollar brand.

From the opulent settings of Dubai and the pristine beaches of the Bahamas to the vibrant scenes of Mykonos, Santorini and the dynamic U.S. market, the Fitzpatrick family works tirelessly to spread brand awareness, secure distribution opportunities, and establish new partnerships. The film also explores their efforts to penetrate whisky-dominated Scotland and the cultural markets of Spain, all while maintaining their commitment to quality and innovation.

Through a blend of stunning, intimate interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage visuals produced by the international award-winning producer Nathan Taupez Scinto “How to Build a Billion Dollar Brand” reveals the challenges and rewards of balancing family dynamics and Christian faith with ambitious business goals. It offers an inspiring narrative of perseverance, strategic acumen, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.

Key Characters in the documentary include:

• Rob Fitzpatrick: The visionary founder and driving force behind Naked Diablo.
• Simon Tolan: Strategic partner and business strategist.
• Lee Fitzpatrick: Co-founder, pivotal in global expansion efforts.
• Dion Fitzpatrick: Head of Brand Development & Global Expansion.
• Carla Fitzpatrick: Public relations and communications specialist.
• Claudia Fitzpatrick: Operations and logistics expert.
• Mia Fitzpatrick: Emerging talent and future face of the brand.
• Michelle Fitzpatrick: Mother of five, the glue that holds the family together.

Film Locations include:

• Dubai: Penetrating the luxury market.
• Bahamas: Leveraging tourism for brand visibility.
• Santorini: Tapping into luxury travel and tourism.
• Mykonos: Exploring brand presence in a vibrant nightlife destination.
• United States: Establishing a strong distribution network.
• UK: Strengthening the home market.
• Scotland: Spending time with extended family and business partners
• Spain: Exploring new markets and cultural synergies.

The documentary’s themes of entrepreneurship, luxury travel, global expansion, innovation, and cultural adaptation are visually emphasized through dynamic aerial shots, intimate interviews, and vibrant on-location footage. The film offers valuable insights into the dedication, innovation, and strategic planning necessary to build a billion-dollar brand from the ground up.

“How to Build a Billion Dollar Brand” is a must-watch for entrepreneurs, business students, those who love high end lifestyle, luxury travel, and anyone interested in the tequila and alcohol industry. It provides an inspirational and educational look at the strategies, challenges, and triumphs involved in taking a family-owned brand to global prominence.

Production by:
Think Global Media Group
Dba Global Filmz
Producer: Nathan Taupez Scinto
Camera: Geoffrey “Tokyo” Benston

For media inquiries, please contact:
Dan Hannay
President of Logistics Naked Diablo International
Phone: 973-270-3111
[email protected]
Press Release – Naked Diablo Tequila

SOURCE Naked Diablo

Two Venom champions crowned, with Faraz Jaka claiming the top $500K Mystery Bounty prize

 SAN JOSE, Costa Rica, Aug. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — ACR Poker’s biggest Mystery Bounty and PLO tourneys to date have ended on a high note, delivering big poker action and surpassing guarantees to award a combined total of more than $10 million.

Boasting a huge $8 million guarantee, the Mystery Bounty Venom attracted an incredible 3,234 entries, boosting the total prize pool to $8,085,000. The tourney concluded with 30-year-old poker pro Ivan ‘chickenpastry’ Limeira from Brazil winning the coveted title and a total payout of $617,333. The champion eliminated ‘im_so_sh0rt’ from Hungary, winning a life-changing prize of $572,333 plus a $45,000 bounty.

Reflecting on his win, Limeira said: “I’m so grateful and relieved that all the hard work actually paid off. I always dreamt of winning big prizes and actually realizing this dream felt so good.”

“The Venom is one of the world’s best poker tournaments. And playing in the Mystery Bounty format is extra exciting with the huge bounties,” Limeira continued.

Adding to the excitement, popular poker coach and WSOP bracelet winner Faraz ‘The-Toilet 0’ Jaka claimed the top bounty prize of $500,000 in his first-ever Mystery Bounty tourney. The top three mystery bounties were awarded to Jaka ($515,000), ‘provideordivide’ ($158,750), and ‘!Alexyo’ ($153,750).

Among those competing in the Mystery Bounty Venom were ACR Pros Chris Moneymaker, Drew Gonzalez, Jon Pardy, and Michael Loncar. Moneymaker (who finished in 302nd for $3,039) and Pardy both live streamed their Day 2 journey on ACR’s Twitch channel, giving fans a front row seat to the action. 

Meanwhile, ACR Poker’s largest PLO tourney of all time, which offered a $2 million guarantee, drew 914 entries, resulting in a final prize pool of $2,332,500. Among the field was poker legend and ACR Pro Tom Dwan, with winner ‘omahafyrarolls’ ultimately securing the first-place prize of $471,378. 

“It was great to see such a solid turnout and fun atmosphere in the dual Venom tourneys,” said Moneymaker. “Congratulations to all the winners and those who hit those life-changing bounties.”

To watch the Mystery Bounty Venom Final Table action on ACR’s Twitch stream, visit www.twitch.tv/acr_pkr.

ACR Poker is also ensuring the action continues with their $5 million GTD Supersized Tourney Week, leading into the Online Super Series XL on Sunday, September 8th, offering over $40 million in guarantees.

For more information on ACR Poker’s upcoming promotions, visit ACRPoker.eu.

About ACR Poker
Formerly known as Americas Cardroom, ACR Poker joined the Winning Poker Network in 2011. The Winning Poker Network has been dealing cards since 2001 and continues to be one of the most trusted names in the industry. Rated first place for payment processing and cashout reliability repeatedly over the last few years, ACR Poker offers outstanding customer service and a friendly environment for all poker players around the world.

Media Contact:
Adam Neal
+447845582487

SOURCE ACR Poker

VERNON, BC, Aug. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ – Lynn Henderson Public Relations (LHPR) is proud to announce its new partnership with Destination Silver Star, one of British Columbia’s premier year-round mountain resorts. As the new PR Agency of Record, LHPR aims to enhance Silver Star’s brand presence and promote its unique offerings to a broader audience.

“We are thrilled to represent Destination Silver Star, a destination that perfectly embodies adventure, culture, and community. LHPR is dedicated to showcasing the vibrant experiences and unmatched natural beauty that Silver Star offers,” stated Lynn Henderson, LHPR Founder.

Located in the heart of BC’s Okanagan Valley, Silver Star is a beacon for adventure enthusiasts and families alike. Renowned for its extensive winter sports terrain and summer activities, Destination Silver Star offers:

• Winter Sports Paradise: With 3,282 acres of skiable terrain, Silver Star features 132 powder runs and Canada’s largest continuously groomed network of cross-country ski trails.
• Summer Thrills: Home to Canada’s second-largest bike park, Silver Star provides over 139 kilometers of trails, 400+ jumps, and 870+ berms for mountain biking aficionados.
• Cultural and Family-Friendly Events: Hosting events like the Crankworx Summer Series, the Summer Music Series, and the Beer and Cider Fest, Silver Star brings together the community and visitors alike with a lively spirit and authentic sense of place.
• Greater Vernon Winter Carnival: The second largest winter festival in North America, the Greater Vernon Winter Carnival is held every February and provides fun-filled parades, ice sculpture competitions, and live performances.
• Unique Dining and Art: From high-elevation dining via snow cat at Paradise Camp to contemporary art exhibits, Silver Star offers rich cultural experiences.
• Improved Access: With the introduction of new flights into Kelowna International Airport (YLW) from Los Angeles (LAX) and Seattle (SEA), reaching Silver Star is now more convenient for travelers.

This announcement marks an exciting new chapter for Destination Silver Star and Lynn Henderson Public Relations, promising a fruitful collaboration that will elevate Silver Star’s profile as a top destination in British Columbia.

About Lynn Henderson Public Relations: 
LHPR is a boutique PR agency specializing in travel, lifestyle, and hospitality. Founded by Lynn Henderson, a PR professional with over two decades of experience, LHPR is known for creating compelling narratives that resonate with media and consumers alike. Its client roster includes renowned brands in Tofino, Whistler, Vancouver and now Vernon.

SOURCE Lynn Henderson Public Relations

Each masterclass will highlight the campaign as well as the Union des Vins doux de Bordeaux and its territory through food and wine pairings

NEW YORK, Aug. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — “The Charming Taste of Europe” continues to support its initiatives in the US by promoting Wines of Bordeaux and its territory with multiple masterclasses throughout the month of August 2024, each taking place in major US cities.

The Union des Vins Doux de Bordeaux is an organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the late harvest wine producers of the Bordeaux region. For centuries, the favorable microclimate in southern Bordeaux has made this region home to some of the world’s most beloved vineyards. The golden wines of Bordeaux are crafted from a unique combination of soils, gentle slopes, and a terroir featuring varying degrees of gravel, clay, different types of sand and limestone, all resting on an alluvial bed. This exceptional terrain gives birth to outstanding wines produced in 8 appellations of the Bordeaux region: Bordeaux Moelleux, Bordeaux Supérieur, Cadillac, Cérons, Côtes de Bordeaux Saint-Macaire, Loupiac, Premières Côtes de Bordeaux and Sainte-Croix-Du-Mont. This region covers 1,800 hectares of vines on both sides of the Garonne River (2% of Bordeaux’s total surface area). With more than 350 estates, Bordeaux produces 9 million bottles of white wine annually, of which 38% is exported. 

The white wines of Bordeaux are characterized by their varietal aromas from Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle, creating a complex and intriguing bouquet. On the palate, these wines have a harmonious balance between freshness and richness. These wines are suitable for any occasion, from the most relaxed to the most elegant receptions. They are perfect for aperitifs pairing with canapés of duck foie gras and Roquefort shortbread slices. For those moments of pure indulgence, these wines are also a delightful match with Moist Chocolate Cake—perfect for satisfying your sweet desire. If you want to add a festive touch to cocktails, try “On the Rocks”, take a glass, add some ice, and pour in a Sweet Bordeaux for an effortlessly elegant and divine natural cocktail.

Beginning in Houston, TX on August 22nd, participants will discover the beauty of the Bordeaux region and its long winemaking tradition through tasting various wines.  A cocktail party lunch will take place at El Meson restaurant, a spanish and latin american restaurant, from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM. The luncheon masterclass will be led by Guy Stout, a Master Sommelier and Certified Wine Educator (CWE) known for his extensive expertise in the wine industry. As a Master Sommelier, he holds one of the highest credentials in the field, demonstrating exceptional skill in wine knowledge and tasting.

Following the Houston event, two events will be held in Dallas at the TEXSOM conference, hosted at the Irving Convention Center. The aim of these events is to showcase the top grape varieties used in Bordeaux: Sauvignon Blanc, known for its vibrant aromatic profile with notes of boxwood, citrus, and tropical fruits, and Sémillon, which adds smoothness and flavors of almond, hazelnut, and white peach.

The schedule is as follows:

• August 23rd: Luncheon with 55 wine professionals from 11:45 AM to 2:00 PM. Discover Semillon and Sauvignon From Bordeaux
• August 25th: Cocktail experience with 100 wine professionals at 6:00 PM

The US tour continues in Atlanta on August 28th at the Vino Venue where participants can enjoy bistro-style cuisine from 11:30 AM. The masterclass will be led by Ophelia Santos, a veteran in the food and beverage industry and a highly regarded educator. She is the founder and director of WineWise, Atlanta’s first Approved Program Provider for WSET certification classes. She holds a Master of Arts Degree in Law & Diplomacy from Tufts University and a level 4 Diploma with Merit from WSET.

The final masterclass will be held in Orlando on August 29th at the Digress Wine, a casual neighborhood wine bar from 12:30 PM to 2 PM. The masterclass will be conducted by Sylvain Boulet CSW, US National Sales Manager for Wine Partner and Director of Bordeaux

For more information about the Charming Taste of Europe campaign, please visit: https://www.charmingtasteofeurope.eu/en/

About The Charming Taste of Europe
Europe, a place with timeless charm, is the birthplace of some of the highest-quality products in the world. The Charming Taste of Europe is a special project that introduces exquisite specialties to the United States and Canada, such as Italian and French wines, and fresh kiwis from Greece, that showcase Europe’s charm, beauty, culture, history, art, heritage and unmistakable tastes.
The mission of the Charming Taste of Europe, co-funded by the European Union, is to increase awareness of the merits and quality standards of select European wines and fresh fruits with promotional activities in the competitive markets of the U.S. and Canada. The Charming Taste of Europe is promoted by the Consortium for the Protection of Wines of Abruzzo, the Association of Imathia’s Agricultural Cooperatives and the Union of Sweet Bordeaux Wines. These European agricultural products, famous around the world for their outstanding qualities, will continue to be promoted with initiatives and events for consumers, journalists and trade professionals. For more information visit charmingtasteofeurope.eu

To Follow The Charming Taste of Europe Campaign:  

Website: charmingtasteofeurope.eu
Facebook: @CharmingTasteofEU
Instagram: @charmeu_usa
YouTube: The Charming Taste of Europe
Hashtags: #thecharmingtasteofeu and #charmeu

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European union or the European research executive agency (Rea). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

SOURCE The Charming Taste of Europe

 Private Groups Offered a Head Start on Booking Adventures in Portugal, Croatia to Montenegro, Basque Country, Dolomites, Scottish Highlands and More

BERKELEY, Calif., Aug. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Backroads, the leader in active travel, today announced the release of Private Reserve, a collection of trips and dates available exclusively for private bookings for a limited time, through December 31. These hand-picked Biking, Walking & Hiking and Multi-Adventure trips offer departures for the company’s most sought-after European locations during the highly requested travel months in the fall. Destinations include Portugal’s Algarve & Alentejo, Spanish Pyrenees to Costa Brava, German & Austrian Alps, Scottish Highlands, the Dolomites and Basque Country.

Backroads Private Reserve caters to the unique needs of private groups, giving them first access to some of the company’s most popular European trips before opening the dates to the public. With competition for travel dates—especially in September—at an all-time high, Backroads decided to offer a block of departures solely for private bookings. The company has been running trips for private groups for over four decades and recognizes the logistics involved in coordinating and booking a trip for multiple people with different schedules. Private Reserve gives private groups more options for active travel and more time to get members onboard, and offers a remarkable experience for groups, including smaller parties. While Backroads has over 6,000 dates available for booking, more people than ever are choosing to go private and these new dates are expected to fill fast.    

Private Reserve trips for 2025 are available for booking now through December 31, 2024; on January 1, 2025, any unreserved dates will open to the general public.

Biking

Walking & Hiking

Multi-Adventure

“We know the effort it takes to corral your private group, choose a destination and settle on a workable date. We also know what it feels like when everything finally comes together, only to fall apart when you discover that trip has been booked by someone else in the meantime,” said Backroads Founder, President and CEO, Tom Hale.  “We created Private Reserve to give private groups first crack at those hard-to-get locations and dates—especially those coveted September departures—giving organizers a little more breathing room and less competition for preferred dates. And with our online private trips search tool, reserving that ideal date for your group is a snap.”

For more information on Backroads’ Private Reserve trips, visit Backroads.com or call 800-GO-ACTIVE.

About Backroads

Backroads was founded in 1979 by Tom Hale and has been a leading innovator in active and adventure travel for over 45 years. Guests join Backroads to bike, hike and so much more—on expertly planned active adventures highlighting the unique character of each destination. The company offers multiple ways to go active: Biking, Walking & Hiking and Multi-Adventure tours; Private Trips, Women’s Adventures and Family Trips designed for three distinct age groups: Families with Kids & Teens (best for ages 7–17; all kids 4+ welcome); Families with Older Teens & 20s (for ages 17+; younger siblings 14+ welcome); and Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond (for ages 20+; younger siblings 17+ welcome), plus Active Ocean & River Cruises and Dolce Tempo trips for travel at a more relaxed pace but still decidedly active. Backroads also offers Safari, Culinary, Home Base and Snow Adventures. Repeat guests and referrals from past guests make up many of the travelers that Backroads hosts each year in hundreds of locations across the globe. For more information, please visit backroads.com or call 800-462-2848.

Backroads Media Contact    
Liz Einbinder     
[email protected]     
510-292-2753      

SOURCE Backroads