By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The J. M. Smucker Co. (NYSE: SJM) announced today the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire Hostess Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ: TWNK) in a $5.6 billion transaction. The planned acquisition marks a major development in the snack category of the food and beverage industry, as Hostess is among the best known brands in the sector. Smucker … [Read more...] about Breaking News: J.M. Smucker Co. to Acquire Hostess Brands
News & Trends
Mergers & Acquisitions: French Billionaire Buys Majority Stake in Hollywood Agency CAA
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief There's been a seismic shift in the licensing industry, as French billionaire Francois-Henri Pinault has completed his acquisition of a majority stake in Creative Artists Agency. Pinault completed the acquisition through his family investment company, Artémis, which now replaces the private equity firm TPG as the majority share … [Read more...] about Mergers & Acquisitions: French Billionaire Buys Majority Stake in Hollywood Agency CAA
Must Read: Universal Music’s Grand Experiments With AI and Music Streaming Payments
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Universal Music Group is making huge moves to change how musicians are paid for streaming fees and for the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI). The company, known as one of the 'Big Three' for music companies globally, is working with the Deezer platform on streaming rights, and with Google on a deal to use musician's … [Read more...] about Must Read: Universal Music’s Grand Experiments With AI and Music Streaming Payments
Sustainability: LEGO Group Vows to Achieve Net Zero Emissions by 2050
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The world's largest toy company, LEGO, says it will achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2050. It's a major step on the way to combatting climate change, which this year has led to major disasters, droughts, crop failure, as well as thousands of deaths around the world. Climate change scientists, the United Nations … [Read more...] about Sustainability: LEGO Group Vows to Achieve Net Zero Emissions by 2050
Macy’s to Offer New Collection From Gap in First Ever Collaboration
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Macy’s and Gap are launching an exclusive new collection of sleepwear, underwear and intimates in the companies' first collaboration. “We are thrilled to launch this collection of Gap sleepwear and intimates exclusively at Macy’s and to extend our customer reach,” said Gap president, Adrienne Gernand. “This launch is an opportunity to … [Read more...] about Macy’s to Offer New Collection From Gap in First Ever Collaboration
Krispy Kreme Appoints New VP of Investor Relations
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Krispy Kreme has appointed Stephanie Daukus as the company's new VP of Investor Relations. Daukus brings more than fifteen years of experience in the financial and investor relations industries. She previously held specialist and executive positions at companies such as Olo, Envestnet, Thomson Reuters, and MCSI. Daukus holds a … [Read more...] about Krispy Kreme Appoints New VP of Investor Relations
Who’s News: Xilam Animation Promotes Safaa Benazzouz to EVP of Distribution
The Academy Award-nominated French animation studio Xilam Animation has upped Safaa Benazzouz to the position of EVP Distribution, effective Sept. 1. Benazzouz was previously the deputy EVP of Distribution at Xilam, but will now replace the company's outgoing EVP Distribution, Morgann Favennec. In her new role, Benazzouz will lead the worldwide distribution strategies across … [Read more...] about Who’s News: Xilam Animation Promotes Safaa Benazzouz to EVP of Distribution
Hunter Boots Expands Footprint in China Through Merger Deal
Authentic Brands Group Announces Partnership with Baozun By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The legendary British bootmaker Hunter will sell 51% of its business in China to local firm Baozun Inc. The deal was announced by Authentic Brands Group, which owns the Hunter Boots brand globally. Hunter is a global footware company known for having developed the Original … [Read more...] about Hunter Boots Expands Footprint in China Through Merger Deal
Who’s News: Falcon’s Beyond Names Toni Caracciolo As EVP Marketing and Branding
By Allison WatkinsonTLL ReporterFalcon’s Beyond Global has appointed Toni Caracciolo as the company's new EVP of marketing and branding. In the newly-created position, Caracciolo will be responsible for the strategy and execution of communications, marketing, and management of the company's brands, IPs, and business sectors.“Falcon’s Beyond is a company on a rapid international … [Read more...] about Who’s News: Falcon’s Beyond Names Toni Caracciolo As EVP Marketing and Branding
US Court Confirms AI-Generated Art Cannot Be Copyrighted
Ruling Seen As Victory For Artists and Other Human Creators By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Artificial Intelligence fought the law, and the law won, thanks to a US court that confirmed only human works of art can be copyrighted. In a case heard in a US District court in Washington, D.C., Judge Beryl Howell supported the US Copyright Office's rejection of an application … [Read more...] about US Court Confirms AI-Generated Art Cannot Be Copyrighted