• Broadens ABB’s Electrification Service portfolio with industrial asset management and advisory services in the US, adding 3,000 additional customer sites
• Enables ABB to meet the increasing demand to modernize and optimize assets for safer, smarter and more sustainable operations
ABB announced today that it has entered into an agreement to acquire SEAM Group, a major provider of energized asset management and advisory services to clients across industrial and commercial building markets.
The acquisition will complement ABB’s Electrification Service offering, bringing significant additional expertise to customers in the areas of predictive, preventive and corrective maintenance, electrical safety, renewables and asset management advisory services. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and expected to close in Q3 2024. Financial terms were not disclosed.
SEAM Group offers a suite of services including strategic advisory, custom training, advanced technology and data management solutions to help clients improve their safety and operational performance by securing asset uptime and improving productivity.
The Company has nearly 250 employees and supports more than 1 million energized assets for over 800 active clients operating across 50 US states, as well as in the Americas, EMEA and Asia. With its presence at around 3,000 customer sites and a strong foothold in fast-growing segments such as commercial buildings, data centers, healthcare, manufacturing and renewables including EV charging infrastructure, SEAM Group will extend ABB’s low- and medium-voltage services where reliable and available power is critical.
“For many industries, every minute of production time counts. Proactive asset management is now a priority for industrial companies to guarantee peak performance of electrical systems and overall operational efficiency, safety and sustainability,” said Stuart Thompson, Division President, ABB Electrification Service.
“This acquisition is part of our ongoing strategy to create a new force in electrification service, broadening our offering and footprint in the US. By sharpening our approach in one of our key markets, we will be able to offer customers complete asset lifecycle management services, while expanding our field service coverage across North America.”
Colin Duncan, Chief Executive Officer for SEAM Group said: “The synergies between SEAM Group and ABB are clear. From our shared values of customer focus, collaboration and enabling a more sustainable future, to our complementary portfolios, together we will deliver new levels of operational performance while supporting companies in their energy transition. We look forward to becoming part of ABB and the opportunity to bring the best of SEAM Group and ABB to our customers.”
Danish multinational engineering group, Danfoss, has unveiled Asia Pacific’s first Sustainability Technology Center (STC) in Singapore today at the Nordic European Center, International Business Park, Singapore.
Supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board, the STC is set to become a prime gateway for introducing global decarbonization solutions to bolster the region’s sustainability efforts through technological development and strategic partnerships.
As a hub for competence development, the Center will also help to localize tried and tested solutions Danfoss has to offer to the Asia Pacific region, empowering local partners with the knowledge and skills for effective implementation of sustainable technologies.
The launch event was graced by Her Excellency, Ms. Tan Poh Hong, Singapore Ambassador to Denmark; Ms. Birgit Dohmann Chang, Deputy Head of Mission at Danish Embassy; Mr. Soh Wai Wah, Principal and CEO of Singapore Polytechnic; Mr. Kim Fausing, President and CEO of Danfoss; together with Mr. Jan Schoemaker, Regional President of Danfoss Asia Pacific Region; and Astrid Mozes, President Regions of Danfoss, commemorating Danfoss’ work and commitment to the green initiatives globally. Over 80 esteemed partners including business leaders, government embassies, agencies and institutions of higher learning were also in attendance.
Interchanging Ideas and Innovation
The STC will showcase live demonstrations of Danfoss’ global decarbonization solutions, where visitors get to witness groundbreaking technologies that underpin some of Singapore’s key sustainability projects. This includes the Electric Dream Ferry and Keppel Bay Tower, Singapore’s first BCA Green Mark Platinum Zero Energy commercial building. Apart from showcasing Danfoss’ novel marine electrification solutions, the STC will double up as a training, pre-testing and commissioning ground for future adopters.
Kim Fausing, President and CEO, Danfoss commented on the opening of the STC:
“Today marks another significant milestone for Danfoss. The Sustainability Technology Center will be a gateway for collaboration, partnerships, innovation, development, and elevating skills in sustainability solutions through training and application development. Seeing is believing, and this Center will serve as a platform for showcasing live decarbonization solutions to our customers and partners. Singapore’s sustainability initiatives and infrastructure make it a prime location to drive decarbonization efforts across the region and beyond. Personally, I am thrilled to witness the Sustainability Technology Center taking off successfully and accelerating the implementation of sustainability initiatives in Singapore and the wider Asia Pacific region. Being part of the solution to build a better future is what our purpose in Danfoss is all about.”
Situated at the central location of Asia Pacific, Singapore is easily accessible for various customers in the region, making this STC geographically strategic to support the different sustainability goals across the Asia Pacific countries. In addition, this STC is an expansion from the previous Green Building Training Center, that was launched in 2020, and the Marine Electrification Application Development Center (ADC) which was previously housed in the Danfoss Singapore Office. With a bigger space, we are now capable of showcasing more energy-efficient innovations for various megatrends.
Technologies That Drive A Sustainable Change Across Industries
With a specialization in Buildings, Food & Beverage, Land & Marine Electrification, and Industrial green technologies, the STC will showcase technologies to decarbonize cities and improve energy efficiency across various sectors. These solutions aim to play a pivotal role in Singapore’s roadmap to reach its sustainability commitments made at COP28, as well as its Green Plan 2030 goals. Its proprietary district cooling method alone saves up to 50 per cent of energy compared to conventional cooling systems.
Danfoss’ past projects in Singapore, such as the retrofitted Keppel Bay Tower that validates over 45 per cent energy savings, and its first plug-in parallel hybrid-electric fast launch vessel powered by Danfoss Editron – which saves between 10 to 20 per cent in emissions compared to traditional vessels, will also be spotlighted at the STC. Danfoss’ advanced heat exchangers, sensors, direct current (DC) charging panel technologies that serve as the foundation of Shell’s electric dream ferry design, Singapore’s first fully electric ferry service, will also be displayed live.
In line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and Singapore’s 30-by-30 goals, Danfoss looks to safeguard food security and lower energy consumption across Food and Beverage partners across the region with the introduction of its vertical farming and CO2 cold room technologies. Leveraging thermo-physical properties of CO2 and expansion energy ejectors, these technologies help refrigerants scale at greater temperatures, while increasing overall system efficiency.
Forging Partnerships With Eyes Towards The Future
The STC will also foster the collaborative development of innovative sustainable solutions for traditional industries such as mining, palm oil, and construction. Specialized training to harness application of technologies will form the bedrock of the STC, as it works together with local partners and industries that are moving towards an environmentally conscious future.
Danfoss is also taking active steps to support Singapore Polytechnic (SP) in its efforts to make the entire educational campus CO2 neutral by 2030, as Singapore gears towards having at least one in five educational institutions reach carbon neutrality by 2030. The blueprint for SP comes from the ProjectZero model based on the town of Sønderborg, Denmark which is on track to be CO2 neutral in its energy system by 2029.
Danfoss is joining ProjectZero in assisting the polytechnic with knowledge, concepts, implementation models, and cost-effective solutions for decarbonizing the campus. Being Singapore’s first and oldest polytechnic in 2023 to achieve carbon neutrality campus wide, more than 12,800 SP students have set out to contribute to the goal. Housed in the STC, the ProjectZero model was also recognised by the World Economic Forum and UN Habitat as a “replicable, adaptable and scalable” decarbonization model for cities worldwide, effectively reducing the costs of the green transition by up to 50 per cent.
Noting the significance of this project, Soh Wai Wah, Principal and CEO of Singapore Polytechnic shares:
“Singapore is the nerve center of the region’s sustainable technology development, and the sentiments resonate with students as well. Danfoss’ pioneering technologies are inspiring the next generation of changemakers to a suite of world-class sustainability technologies, and it has become a stimulus to embrace the challenges that can be seen as a roadblock to meeting the 2030 goals. We are excited about our plans of incorporating Danfoss’ STC into Singapore Polytechnic’s Sustainability Learning Journey, offering SMEs the opportunity to explore a range of decarbonisation solutions for their environments.”
The partnership between the institution and Danfoss marks the beginning of a long-term commitment towards developing state-of-the-art technologies that will accelerate Singapore’s efforts for energy efficiency and carbon neutrality.
Dino Tan, Head of Region (Designate), International Operations, Europe, Singapore Economic Development Board also shared his sentiments and support:
“We are excited by Danfoss’ decision to establish its Sustainability Technology Centre in Singapore. The facility is a valuable addition to our ecosystem and reinforces our strength as a location for innovation and partnerships. We look forward to seeing the company develop new sustainability solutions with its local and regional partners and contribute to our sustainability goals.”
Working towards its mission “To help the world build a better future”, the STC aims to bring greater value and transformation to partners across the Asia-Pacific region through the most relevant technological application portfolios. By empowering changemakers with the knowledge and capabilities necessary for navigating and implementing sustainable practices effectively, Danfoss looks to enable a greener tomorrow for all.
In a significant stride towards global sustainability, the Green Economy Partnership (GEP) headquarters will be domiciled in in Doha, Qatar, furthering its commitment to fostering international collaborations under the Country’s far reaching sustainability vision.
Under the leadership of HE Sheikh Mansoor Jabor Al Thani, GEP aims to amplify its impact on global climate initiatives, emphasizing collaboration with governments and the implementation of CO2 removal projects that fall under article 6 of the Paris Agreement.
“The Green Economy Partnership was established to create global collaborations that exceed the nominal value of the transactions. We actively work with governments, advising and driving the development of ARR projects that reduce NetZero global climate impact. Our mission also focuses on bolstering social and economic well-beingThe alignment with Qatar is meant to create the blueprints for the implementation of a robust framework for the hard to abate sector in utilizing Internationally Transferable Mitigation Outcomes (ITMOs) in alignment with countries’ Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs),” said HE Sheikh Mansoor Jabor Al Thani, Chairman of GEP.
The establishment of GEP’s new headquarters in Doha signals a commitment towards operationalizing Net Zero strategies in the private sector on an economically viable way. GEP’s global stature as a pioneering organization in establishing a carbon elimination standard for carbon removals aligns with the framework under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.
With the planet’s future at stake, GEP calls on global corporations and government departments to join in taking decisive action to reverse climate change by reducing carbon levels worldwide.
“Qatar’s rapid strides in sustainability are commendable, and GEP’s presence in Doha is a testament to the country’s dedication to achieving its sustainability plans. The international office in Qatar will serve as a hub for collaborative efforts, bringing together diverse stakeholders to address the pressing challenges of our time,” said Arthur Chirkinien, CEO of Green Economy Partnership.
GEP supports and aligns with the Paris Agreement, advocating for comprehensive strategies beyond offsets alone. In line with the Oxford Principles for Net Zero Aligned Carbon Offsetting and other international initiatives, GEP actively advises companies to include Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) in their net-zero strategies.
“We identify carbon removal suppliers from various methodologies and provide them with certification, assuring buyers that they meet our rigorous standards,” said Chirkinien. “Our innovative approach empowers businesses, including hard-to-abate industries, and individuals to take meaningful, measurable action against climate change. Together, we can create a sustainable, resilient future for generations to come.”
Caption: Representatives from Cleantech Solar, Pan-United and Shell Singapore at the signing ceremony on 2 February 2024. (L-R: Pan-United’s Chief Executive Officer May Ng, Shell’s Senior Vice President for Distribution Operations & Midstream Trading and Supply Richard Jory, Pan-United’s Chief Operating Officer Ken Loh, Cleantech Solar’s Chief Financial Officer Brian Tan, Cleantech Solar’s Corporate Financing & Treasury Director Clara Lim, and Chairman of Shell Companies in Singapore Aw Kah Peng)
Singapore-listed concrete innovation leader Pan-United Corporation Ltd (“Pan-United”) is partnering with Cleantech Solar, a Singapore-headquartered renewable energy development company, to provide turnkey solar solutions. The project will consist of about 900 solar panels on the rooftops of its operational headquarters in Kaki Bukit, Singapore, and its slag grinding plant in Johor, Malaysia. Cleantech Solar is backed by Keppel Ltd., Keppel Asia Infrastructure Fund and Shell Singapore Pte. Ltd. (formerly known as Shell Eastern Petroleum (Pte) Ltd).
When installation by Cleantech Solar is completed in 1Q 2024, Pan-United will be a frontrunner in Singapore’s concrete industry to reduce carbon emissions through the adoption of solar energy. This project is part of an ongoing three-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in 2022 with Shell Singapore Pte. Ltd. to explore decarbonisation solutions in the construction and urban solutions industries. Embracing solar solutions marks a major step for Pan-United in integrating renewable energy into its operations.
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Cleantech Solar has been leading the way in providing clean, sustainable and economically efficient renewable energy to some of the world’s top corporations, and is committed towards aiding and accelerating the energy transition. The company has a portfolio of 1.2 gigawatt-peak (GWp) across seven countries and is scaling up deployment of renewable energy projects at a significant pace, solidifying its position as a key provider of green power in the distributed energy segment in the region.
Ms May Ng, Chief Executive Officer of Pan-United, commented: “We are delighted that our partnership with Shell has advanced our efforts to adopt renewable energy solutions, which are crucial in reducing our operational carbon emissions. Industry partnerships to leverage collective strengths is a sure way to decarbonisation.
“Solar deployment in collaboration with Cleantech Solar supports our efforts in contributing to the sustainability goals under the ‘Energy Reset’ pillar of the Singapore Green Plan 2030 and brings us closer to our sustainability target of becoming a carbon-neutral ready-mix concrete company by 2050.”
Mr Sachin Jain, Chief Executive Officer at Cleantech Solar, said: “It is heartening to see industry leaders like Pan-United taking the lead in embracing cost-effective clean energy to power their operations and contribute to both their own and the nation’s sustainability efforts. We are excited to work with Pan United to advance their decarbonisation journey, and we look forward to the successful delivery of this green partnership.”
As part of the MOU signed in 2022, Pan-United and Shell will continue to identify opportunities in areas such as electric mobility solutions, circular use of materials, and other fleet management digitalisation enabled solutions.
Mr Tan Yew Chong, General Manager, Commercial Fuels East at Shell, said: “This collaboration is a significant step forward in our shared commitment to explore decarbonisation solutions in the construction industry with the objective to build an environmentally sustainable solution for urban cities. We are also exploring solutions with Pan-United to electrify its trucking fleet and are studying the potential of repurposing used industrial materials from Shell’s local facilities as alternative raw materials in the production of low-carbon concrete at Pan-United’s facilities.”
Hillhaven and Lumina Grand, the first major new condominium and executive condominium (EC) launches in 2024, are set to be fitted with approximately 3,500 smart home and kitchen solutions by City Energy.
Located at Hillview Rise, the 341-unit Hillhaven condominium by Far East Organization will feature a range of appliances from City Energy’s brand, Küche, including smart gas hobs, smart hoods, smart ovens and smart gas water heaters which emit less carbon compared to electric storage water heaters.
All 512 units at Lumina Grand will be equipped with Küche’s smart gas hobs, smart hoods and smart ovens. The development will also be fitted with Macro smart gas water heaters. Located in the heart of the tranquil Bukit Batok West neighbourhood, the luxury EC is being developed by City Developments Limited (CDL) and is within proximity to the upcoming Tengah Town, Singapore’s first smart and sustainable precinct.
Perry Ong, CEO of City Energy, said, “Our partnership with Far East Organization and CDL marks a significant milestone in our mission to provide smarter home and kitchen solutions that enhance the overall quality of life for homeowners.
“We look forward to working with more homeowners and property developers in Singapore to deliver cutting-edge solutions that elevate the standard of living in condominium developments.”
All the appliances will be fully interoperable and can be controlled remotely through a mobile application, providing homeowners with complete control wherever they are. Besides monitoring their gas consumption, users will be able to pre-set the temperature of their water heater or pre-heat their oven for greater convenience. Homeowners with elderly family members will also benefit from safety features such as the built-in timer and alert notification functions to warn of unattended cooking.
Sales bookings for Hillhaven and Lumina Grand commenced on 21 January and 27 January, respectively. Prospective buyers can visit the showrooms to find out more about the home and kitchen solutions by City Energy.
Big 5 Construct Saudi co-locates with four specialized events, namely, HVAC R Expo Saudi, FM Expo Saudi, Stone & Surface Saudi Arabia and Windows, Doors & Facades Event Saudi
The event to spotlight more than 20,000 products & solutions under nine product sectors
Egypt, Jordan, Spain and India join the lineup of 20 country pavilions for the first time
Saudi Arabia’s construction sector is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 4% between 2024 and 2027, driven by strategic initiatives focused on economic diversification in alignment with Vision 2030 (Source: JLL). Building on this momentum, the largest construction event in the Kingdom, Big 5 Construct Saudi, returns for its 12th edition to the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Centre from 26 to 29 February in 2024, doubling in size and capacity covering an area of 70,000sqm.
As it brings together 1,300+ exhibitors, recording a strong 55% percent increase compared to last year’s edition, from 40+ countries to connect with 55,000+ construction professionals, Big 5 Construct Saudi co-locates with four specialized events: HVAC R Expo Saudi, FM Expo Saudi, Stone & Surface Saudi Arabia and Windows, Doors & Facades Event Saudi.
“Doubling in size to match the colossal developments in the Kingdom’s construction industry, Big 5 Construct Saudi enhances the diversity of offerings with the participation of local and international exhibitors bringing together groundbreaking ideas, innovative technologies and unparalleled expertise,” said Muhammed Kazi, Vice President – Construction at dmg events, the organizers of Big 5 Construct Saudi.
With a strong pipeline of projects worth $2.1 trillion for the next eight years, according to Jerry Todd, Head of the National Development Division at the Public Investment Fund (Source: Arab News), Saudi Arabia stands at the threshold of a transformative era marked by momentous growth.
“At a time when Saudi Arabia won the bid to host the Riyadh Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034, our event continues to bridge international collaborations as stakeholders gear up to deliver the requirements stemming from the multi-billion-dollar ongoing and upcoming mega and giga projects in the Kingdom,” added Kazi.
Diverse product sectors and exhibitors under one roof
As it contributes to the future of the Kingdom’s construction sector, Big 5 Construct Saudi showcases more than 20,000 products & services under nine product sectors in 2024. These include building envelope & construction, building interiors & finishes, building materials & tools, building security & access control, intelligent buildings, offsite & modular construction, kitchen & bathroom, plant machinery & vehicles, and solar & MEP.
Supporting product sectorization, the four-day event also focuses on four new sectors such as Concrete, Construction Technologies and Steel and Urban Design & Landscape, which together with the existing product sectors cover the entire construction value chain.
This year the trade exhibition hosts 20 country pavilions such as Germany, China, Greece, Italy, Türkiye, the UAE, the US and Qatar, with Egypt, Jordan, Spain and India joining the lineup for the first time. “As international presence grows at Big 5 Construct Saudi bringing together prominent industry players, it provides a collaborative platform for stakeholders to build new partnerships boosting the growth of the Kingdom’s construction sector,” added Kazi.
The growth of international presence also comes on the back of strong local support for the event as the nation’s leading construction players join the exhibitor lineup. Some of these include Al Zamil Group, a diversified company; Al Bawani, a contracting giant; Samnan Holding, a water solutions provider and Construction Product Company (CPC), a renowned supplier of finished products.
Hussein and Al-Hassan G. Shaker Bros. Company, a leading HVAC company, is also exhibiting this year and supporting the event as the Diamond Sponsor. Commenting on their participation, Khaled Jiz, Marketing Manager said: “At HH-Shaker, our mission is to provide the Saudi market with high-quality air-conditioning solutions and establish as a leader among competitors in our industry. This year, we are proud to participate in the Big 5 Construct along with our trusted partner Midea A/C. We will be showcasing our latest energy efficient technologies to be introduced to the Saudi market in 2024. We are looking forward to another successful event.”
Also supporting the HVAC R Expo as the Platinum Sponsor is American multinational HVAC, refrigeration, and fire and security equipment giant Carrier. “It’s a tremendous opportunity for us at Carrier to be a part of Big 5 Construct Saudi and the co-located HVAC R Expo to showcase our cutting-edge, innovative, reliable and sustainable solutions. We look forward to engaging with industry leaders, experts and construction professionals once again at this event. We believe in the power of innovation and quality, and our presence at HVAC R Expo is a testament to our commitment to advancing the construction industry,” said Salman Zebian, General Manager, Carrier Saudi Arabia
Some of the new-to-show brands exhibiting this year are British multinational manufacturer of construction equipment JCB; UAE-based SKM Air Conditioning; US-headquartered Stanley & Black Decker, a manufacturer of industrial tools and hardware; Kingspan, a premier manufacturer of insulation solutions for building envelope; KNEST, an aluminium formwork company from India; and Sphinx Glass, a glass, ceramics and concrete manufacturing company in Egypt.
Promoting thought leadership and practical learning
Big 5 Construct Saudi will be bustling with industry networking opportunities providing attendees the chance to make the most of the 60+ free-to-attend CPD (Continuous Professional Development) certified Big 5 Talks. The talks programme provides professionals with a chance to collect CPD points, an industry-wide requirement to build on practical knowledge applied to the construction profession.
From construction leaders to innovators, architects to project and facilities management practitioners as well as technologists, the talks provide insightful takeaways under 13 streams. These include concrete, sustainability, technology innovations and digital transformation in construction, contracting strategies, risk management and legal, decarbonization, HVAC R, architecture & design, facilities management, giga project updates, intelligent buildings, project management and leadership.
Meet the sponsors and partners supporting Big 5 Construct Saudi and co-located events:
Exclusive Diamond, Big 5 Construct Saudi: Hussein and Al-Hassan G. Shaker Bros. Company and Midea
Diamond Sponsor, WDF Event Saudi: Schuco
Platinum Sponsor, Big 5 Construct Saudi: Construction Products Holding Company (CPC)
Platinum Sponsor, WDF Event Saudi: Alumil Middle East DMCC
Platinum Sponsor, HVAC R Expo Saudi: Carrier
Gold Sponsors HVAC R Expo Saudi: Haier and Aljabr Saudi Electronics Company
Silver Sponsor, Big 5 Construct Saudi: Masdar
The exhibition is free to attend for industry professionals. Visitor registrations are open at www.big5constructsaudi.com.
IWG, the world’s leading provider of hybrid work solutions, today announced the appointment of Elizabeth Laws Fuller as Country Head for Singapore and Regional Director of Growth for APAC West. This appointment comes as IWG eyes further acceleration of its capital light growth strategy in the region, fuelled by the rising demand for flexible workspaces and increasing adoption of hybrid working solutions.
Based in Singapore, Elizabeth will oversee the expansion of the business in Singapore and build on the success of IWG’s 25 locations across four leading workspace brands – Regus, Spaces, Signature and No.18. As Regional Director of Growth for APAC West, she will spearhead growth in the region including Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia and South Korea, through strategic franchising and partnerships. Under Elizabeth’s leadership, IWG is set to launch over 1,000 new centres across Asia Pacific in the next three years, encompassing a diverse portfolio of CBD and decentralised locations to meet the growing demand for flexible workspaces in both gateway and emerging cities.
Elizabeth brings a wealth of experience from over 20 years in real estate, finance, and strategic consulting in Asia Pacific, Europe, and the United States. Notably, she has been a real estate investment and strategy advisor for businesses of all sizes – MNCs, SMEs, and startups – across the technology, hospitality, and workspace sectors, including working with CBRE as an investment consultant. Previously, Elizabeth was Head of Growth, Southeast Asia, and Head of Sales Transactions Services, Pacific, at WeWork, looking after Singapore, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Korea, and Australia.
“I am thrilled to join IWG at this pivotal time, as the rise in hybrid working solutions presents a wealth of opportunities in Singapore and across Asia Pacific as businesses of all sizes permanently embrace the model. My role will focus on harnessing these emerging trends to unlock new business avenues and expand IWG’s reach in the region through strategic partnerships,” commented Elizabeth Laws Fuller. “I look forward to continuing and accelerating the growth of the IWG network in Asia Pacific and driving success for our partners through IWG’s robust platform and expertise, delivering profitable, flexible workspaces that yield significant revenue opportunities for them.”
In 2023, IWG significantly expanded its global footprint by adding 867 new locations with 95% of these locations in the partnership model, while also enhancing its presence in the Asia Pacific region with 163 new centres – a testament to the accelerated demand of hybrid working in the region and beyond.
The 29th edition of Guangzhou International Lighting Exhibition (GILE) and 21st edition of Guangzhou Electrical Building Technology (GEBT) will be held concurrently from 9 – 12 June 2024 in areas A and B at the China Import and Export Fair Complex. The shows will expand to occupy over 230,000 sqm and cover 23 exhibition halls. Human-centric spatial design and city planning will become a core focus to deeply connect people with art, technology and business. Innovations in interior design and advances in LED technology will provide exciting opportunities for the industry. Under the concept of “Light – The Power of Infinity”, GILE 2024 will continue to provide participants a platform for broadening their horizons and gaining inspiration, developing new techniques, technologies and applications with the quality of light and digitalisation in mind.
As the world moves from traditional manufacturing to a new era where advances in technology, reliance on the internet and new lifestyle trends all play a major role in the economy, the lighting industry has emerged as one of the leading adopters of innovation. In the future, the use of light will be more efficient and the full-spectrum of light will be widely applied. Meanwhile, driven by China’s dual carbon policy, product design and manufacturing are moving towards low energy consumption. Virtual reality technology will also be applied to large-scale light shows, while smart lighting and home appliances will have more applications, with luminaires becoming integrated with household furniture and decorations. Human-centric lighting will therefore become an important trend of the lighting industry’s future development.
On the industry’s development and the fair’s theme, Ms Lucia Wong, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd said: “Stepping into the age of ‘data technology’, AIoT technology has made significant breakthroughs, becoming more streamlined, sophisticated and wide ranging in its applications. New consumption patterns are shaping lifestyle trends while personal health and environmental impacts are also affecting individual purchasing decisions and behaviour. The lighting industry is developing from standalone LED products to an interconnected system, from display stores to immersive experience stores, and from traditional sales to a unified marketing strategy integrating all sales channels. There are infinite possibilities for the lighting industry right now, so that’s why the show is building on the previous theme of ‘Light +’, with the concept of ‘Infinity’ to encourage industry players to bring about improved spatial experience, better quality of life and a zero-carbon future.”
The Power of Infinity: Evolution of Light + In the era of “Light +”, the lighting industry will develop to encompass more and more new applications. “Infinity” therefore aptly represents the future roadmap of the industry, helping to inject cities with lighting that improves people’s living and working conditions and provides entertainment for residents and tourists alike.
The infinite applications of light include AIoT, optical communication, big data, healthcare, cosmetics, lifestyle, low carbon and new energy solutions, aquaculture, new media arts, extended reality and much more. To better represent the wide range of new applications for lighting, the show will present eight concepts, each corresponding to a letter in the word “Infinity”:
I: Intelligent solutions for new challenges The lighting industry has long been at the forefront of the research and design of smart technology, especially in AIoT. Looking forward, smart lighting is poised to evolve further through making use of self-learning algorithms based on individual user habits. These advances in technology add additional value to products, turning them from simple light fixtures into smart products that manage and regulate our environments.
N: Net-zero future In response to the “dual carbon” goals of carbon peak and carbon neutrality by 2030 and 2060 respectively outlined by the Chinese government, sustainable lighting presents more value to the industry. In recent years, alongside the rapid development of LED technology, minimising energy consumption and emissions has become one of the key objectives of the industry. LEDs, smart technology and new energy have together contributed to achieving these goals across a variety of fields.
Highly efficient lighting products that make use of both green and smart technology are set to become predominant. These can then be applied towards many applications including the arts, tourism, cities, buildings, roads, car parks and other areas. The combination of advanced energy storage solutions with net-zero carbon smart lighting systems will increase the adoption of renewable energy in cities. Building streetlamps that also function as EV charging piles to cater for roadside charging has potential to further this trend.
Smart lighting technology also has a role in agriculture and horticulture, helping to improve crop quality and yields, and the efficient use of resources such as water can reduce energy consumption. This leads to lower emissions and water consumption.
F: Five senses experience By integrating sound, light, shadow, AI, VR, new visual media and haptic technology with the tourism industry, immersive experiences for tourists can be created using all of the five senses. This represents a significant upgrade to lighting technology serving the tourism industry.
I: Individualism and customisation As personalisation continues to permeate all aspects of daily life, people’s physical and emotional needs will become the main focus of indoor lighting. At present, mainless lighting and smart home lighting can adapt to individualised needs and apply to different lighting scenarios.
N: New business models The “Light +” era has also given rise to new business models, transitioning from the sale of standalone lighting products to delivering a comprehensive lighting service. The twin pillars of this model are design and after-sales service. With a clear service target, the industry needs to design lighting applications using smart and human-centric technology to gain increased customer recognition and demand, and replace existing services in the market.
I: Industry 4.0 leads the intelligent manufacturing future Industry 4.0 combines the development of automation and informatisation, utilising advanced technologies such as cloud factories, AI, IoT and big data to improve production efficiency. Industrial lighting is evolving to support these integrated systems, incorporating smart and energy saving lighting technologies to ensure safe and healthy working environments in factory settings.
T: Technological innovation Over the last century, the lighting industry has developed rapidly, evolving from the simplicity of artificial light to the use of advanced technologies including IoT, optical communication and big data analysis and from incandescent bulbs to LEDs and interconnected lighting systems. Throughout this process, industry players have continuously improved the quality of light, aligning their technologies with the needs of the time. Stepping into the era of “Light +”, the role of LEDs has transitioned from a replacement for traditional light sources to an integral role in human-centric lighting, which takes into account people’s physiological and psychological needs. Combining smart technologies with lighting can also improve the interaction between light, spaces, and people, offering increased adaptability to the needs and preferences of individuals.
Y: Yielding infinite possibilities The future is full of uncertainties, with infinite possibilities and room for imagination. As an industry that is continually on the rise, lighting continues to inspire industry players to strive for innovation despite the ever-changing circumstances.
Ms Lucia Wong continued: “Every industry player strives to improve people’s quality of life. In the ‘Light +’ era, the integration of lighting with other technologies will provide users with more comprehensive targeted services. GILE, together with the industry players, will continue to move towards the infinite possibilities of light.”
The next editions of Guangzhou International Lighting Exhibition and Guangzhou Electrical Building Technology will be held from 9 – 12 June 2024. Both shows are part of Messe Frankfurt’s Light + Building Technology fairs headed by the biennial Light + Building event. The next edition will be held from 3 – 8 March 2024 in Frankfurt, Germany.
Messe Frankfurt organises several trade fairs for the light and building technology sectors in Asia, including Shanghai Intelligent Building Technology, Shanghai Smart Home Technology and Parking China. The company’s lighting and building technology trade fairs also cover the markets in Argentina, India, Thailand and the UAE.
LG Electronics is set to unveil its innovative cloud solution platform, LG Business Cloud, at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2024. The convenient, new platform allows business customers to browse and subscribe to LG digital signage cloud solutions and manage them all remotely. LG Business Cloud is compatible with multiple LG digital signage lineups including Micro LED displays, commercial TVs, Transparent OLED Signage and LED displays1.
LG Business Cloud enables customers to establish a commercial cloud solution for their LG digital signage with a straightforward, one-time sign-up process. Along with eliminating the need to browse several different pages, submit inquiries and engage with sales representatives, the new platform offers educational videos (from beginner to expert level) catering to diverse business needs and explaining how to get the most out of LG’s specialised cloud offerings. Additionally, the structure of LG Business Cloud enhances user convenience, allowing for customer inquiries to be addressed directly on the website.
The platform includes the LG SuperSign Cloud digital signage content management solution (CMS) and LG Pro:Centric Cloud, the company’s hotel TV-focused CMS. These solutions give users the flexibility to customise content (e.g., welcome messages, facility information, and promotions) displayed on their LG digital signage and to set up display
schedules. Also on LG Business Cloud is the LG ConnectedCare remote management solution, which actively monitors the performance/ condition of LG signage and promptly sends email notifications if unexpected events are detected. Additionally, LG ConnectedCare lets users remotely adjust various signage settings, such as screen brightness and volume.
The versatile Business Cloud platform enables users to explore all of LG’s cloud solutions and experience them firsthand by taking advantage of the trial licenses on offer. Once customers have selected the LG cloud solution they wish to subscribe to, they can configure the duration of the relevant license agreement and easily activate the license post-purchase. What’s more, LG Business Cloud places no restrictions on the number of devices that customers can use to access it; empowering businesses of all sizes, from small enterprises to corporate giants, to manage their signage displays more efficiently.
Furthermore, LG Business Cloud boasts a user-friendly interface that makes it accessible to users of all levels. Users can monitor the status of connected LG digital signage in real time, and enjoy the efficiency of effortless remote control. Customers can take advantage of remote-control functions such as on/off and reboot, as well as a dashboard feature that enables them to easily check signage operating status.
In addition, the partner solutions offered through LG Business Cloud also include media art applications that grant users access to a variety of dynamic artwork, and service applications that deliver real-time weather, flight and local tourism information.
A valuable tool for retail, corporate, and public sector clients, LG Business Cloud is a one-stop solution for comparing, subscribing to, and managing LG digital signage cloud solutions. It consolidates an array of related services and functionalities to elevate the overall customer experience, and will eventually encompass additional product categories to deliver even greater value and convenience.
At CES 2024, LG CEO William Cho highlighted the B2B business as LG’s new growth engine, noting that the company will expand its product portfolio to include even more innovative, customer-driven solutions. Following last year’s successful launch of the home solutions business, which combines subscription services with smart home appliances, LG plansto use the same model (seamlessly integrated services and hardware) to grow its B2B solutions business.
“LG Business Cloud is a dedicated platform that simplifies the management of LG digital signage cloud solutions for businesses of all sizes,” said Paik Ki-Mun, senior vice president and head of the Information Display business unit of LG Business Solutions Company. “LG is a total solutions provider, offering innovative commercial signage displays and convenient, time-saving management software that enhance the customer experience.”
LG Business Cloud will be on show at ISE 2024 in Hall 3 (Stand 3K 100) of Fira Barcelona’s Gran Via conference centre from 30 January to 2 February 2024 and is scheduled to launch in the first quarter of this year. The ability to purchase solutions from within LG Business Cloud will be available initially in North America before expanding to other markets around the globe, including South Korea and Europe.
1 Applicable to digital signage products equipped with LG webOS version 6.0 or above.
Crowne Plaza Changi Airport proudly announces the successful completion of its S$22 million asset enhancement, breathing new life into the iconic hotel and reaffirming its status as the World’s Best Airport Hotel for the eighth consecutive year.
Completed in January 2024, the asset enhancement initiative (AEI) includes the addition of 12 new guest rooms, comprising 10 Premier Rooms and two Suites, designed for families and long-stay guests. Strategically located on the same level as the hotel’s tropical resort outdoor pool which offers a stunning view of the iconic Changi Airport control tower, three of the new rooms will have direct pool access which is highly sought-after. The hotel’s refreshed design enhances the appeal for both business and leisure travellers, unveiling new and noteworthy features such as Allora, an all-day dining destination delivering an authentic Italian culinary experience, an additional function room with state-of-the-art meeting facilities, a chic Club Lounge and a revitalised Fitness Centre.
Inspired by the serene charm of Changi Beach, the design concept for the AEI by Park + Associates is meticulously crafted to bring a tranquil oceanic atmosphere to the space. Drawing inspiration from the rhythmic patterns of the waves, the newly refurbished rooms and meeting spaces feature carefully chosen design elements. The furniture, crafted from a mix of natural wood finishes, brings a sense of warmth and cosiness to the room, complemented by a carefully curated colour palette that blends beachy tones with ocean shades. The addition of curves to the walls mirrors the natural flow of the waves, contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal. Light grey sofas and vibrant navy blue and yellow accents create a contemporary and inviting atmosphere, while the sky-blue headboard serves as a statement piece, aligning with the modern and refreshing theme. This thoughtful design not only enhances the visual appeal of the hotel but also fosters a meaningful connection between hotel guests and the calming elements of nature.
“We embrace the evolving trend of blended travel. In anticipation of a notable increase in corporate and leisure travellers in 2024 and beyond, the AEI aims to cater to the needs of the modern business traveller, whose concept of business travel extends beyond work to encompass a blend of work and life. As the world’s leading airport hotel, it’s vital that we continue to adapt and elevate the guest experience. We look forward to maintaining our best-in class position and welcoming guests from around the world,” said Bruno Cristol, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Changi Airport and Area General Manager, IHG Hotels & Resorts in Singapore.
Key Features of the Transformation: Additional Premier Rooms and Suites: The 12 new guest rooms, elevating the room inventory to 575, introduce a distinctive touch to the accommodation options. Among these, three rooms, featuring highly sought-after direct pool access, provide a delightful stay experience for both families and long-stay guests. The suites are outfitted with carefully chosen amenities, featuring a walk-in wardrobe, spacious living and dining areas, a convenient kitchenette with an induction stove and a stylish bathroom. The bathroom is generously sized, complete with a bathtub, a separate standing shower, and a vanity area, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable experience for guests.
Revamped All-Day Dining Restaurant – Allora: Now conveniently relocated to Level 1 for enhanced accessibility, the new Italian restaurant – Allora, helmed by the talented Executive Chef Stefano Sanna, seamlessly combines the urban energy of Milan with the coastal charm of Southern Italy. Bringing the sophistication of northern Italian cities and the refreshing ambience of the southern Italian coastline to Singapore, the restaurant seamlessly combines both sides of Italy to bring a new and enhanced experience for locals and travellers alike. Allora’s interior effortlessly marries Milan’s industrial urban vibes with the breezy coastal charm of Southern Italy. The Northern section draws inspiration from Tuscany’s enchanting hills and ancient medieval cities, featuring a central metallic mosaic pizza oven and industrial Milanese elements that together create a dynamic and captivating atmosphere. Outdoor spaces, adorned with striped parasols, transform into a Southern Italian seaside promenade, offering a relaxed escape. Allora features a chic dining room, a vibrant lobby lounge and bar, and a charming alfresco terrace, drawing inspiration from the distinctive characteristics of both Northern and Southern Italy.
Allora currently serves refreshing contemporary Italian cuisine and is slated to become the only Italian restaurant offering weekend brunch buffets in the Changi Airport area from the second quarter of 2024. The lavish buffet will feature handcrafted pizzas, artisanal pastas, a diverse array of antipasti, as well as a thoughtfully curated collection of fine wines, spirits and unique cocktails. From an inviting dining room to a stylish lobby lounge and bar and a relaxing alfresco terrace, Allora accommodates varied preferences, fostering a communal atmosphere. With a seating capacity of 264, it is poised to be the go-to destination in the East, promising an authentic and delightful Italian dining experience.
New and Versatile Meeting Spaces: The former all-day dining space has transformed into a 352-square metre multi-function room named ‘Camellia’ inspired by the elegant flower. This versatile venue, equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, is ideal for a range of events including corporate meetings, social gatherings and intimate weddings. This addition complements the hotel’s current ballroom and meeting rooms, expanding its capacity for hosting various meetings and events.
Inspired by the rainforest and named after local trees such as Chengal, Alstonia, Garcinia, Hopea, Kempas, and Meranti, the present ballroom and meeting rooms exude a natural charm. These meeting spaces, featuring ceilings reminiscent of a lush tree canopy, provide a tranquil atmosphere. The nature-inspired design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the spaces but also infuses them with a refreshing and inspiring ambiance – perfect for both meetings and social events.
Club Lounge and Fitness Centre Transformation: The former bar space has been transformed into a cosy and contemporary Club Lounge. Modernised meeting spaces within are adorned with an array of art pieces and tasteful decorations, creating an inviting and sophisticated ambiance.
Simultaneously, the fitness centre has undergone a revamp, now equipped with the latest equipment to meet the wellness needs of both business and leisure travellers.
This AEI significantly elevates the guest experience at Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, reinforcing its position as the World’s Best Airport Hotel and ensuring a rejuvenating and dynamic stay for all valued guests.
For more information and reservation details, visit crowneplaza.com/changiairport.
