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DR.WU introduces NEW Daily Renewal Serum with Mandelic Acid

By
Tan Heng Hong
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(L-R): Julia Wong, Mnaging Director of Vast Diversified Sdn Bhd, Caryn Loh, Watsons Malaysia’s General Manager and Country Head, Dr. Ying-Chin Wu, Brand Founder and Dermatologist of DR.WU, Eric Wu, Chairman & CEO of DR.WU. Sam Wong, General Manager of Vast Diversified Sdn Bhd

Rejuvenate and Renew To Reveal Clear, Soft, Smooth Skin

DR.WU introduces NEW Daily Renewal Serum with Mandelic Acid

Radiant clear skin that is smooth and soft to the touch is now attainable with the evolution of DR.WU’s award winning serum with Mandelic Acid for skin rejuvenation.

The new Daily Renewal Serum with Mandelic Acid together with DR.WU’s top selling Intensive Renewal Serum with Mandelic Acid 18% is designed to gently renew skin on a daily basis to combat dullness, uneven skin tones and accumulation of dead skin cells which results in thickened skin that makes it unable to absorb skincare nutrients among other problems.

A key ingredient to DR.WU’s skin renewal serums, Mandelic Acid – extracted from bitter almonds – is a mild and multi-functional alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) with high molecular weight. It can brighten skin tones, improve fine lines and wrinkles, decongest pores, gently boost skin metabolic cycles, and eliminate dead skin cells to achieve skin renewal effects, while gently exfoliating the surface deposits of old and dead skin cells to enhance the rapid renewal of epidermis.

Despite the influx of acid-based skincare products saturating the market, continual research proves that mild Mandelic Acid, with its high lipophilic properties and low potential for irritation, remains the best choice for skin renewal treatments at home.

Designed for dry, sensitive skin the new Daily Renewal Serum with Mandelic Acid 15ml (RM109) features the breakthrough “Three Acids in Golden Ratio” – a gentle formula combining Three Acids in the perfect 5:2:1 Golden Ratio of Mandelic Acid, Salicylic Acid and Pyruvic Acid to penetrate deeper and faster for immediate skin regeneration.

This breakthrough mild formula targets all epidermal layers with precision to eliminate skin troubles in one simple step, effectively eliminating acne, blackheads, enlarged pores and rough dullness to restore flawless and smooth skin!

The new serum joins the brand’s top-seller, the highly concentrated Intensive Renewal Serum with Mandelic Acid 18% 15ml (RM149) which is suitable for normal, combination or oily skin, to cleanse and purify pores and thoroughly eliminate blackheads.

This intensive renewal serum contains 18% Mandelic Acid to penetrate the deepest layers of skin, to effectively activate five major skin renewal affects – cell metabolism, pore cleansing, blackhead removal, whitening & brightening, anti-wrinkle lifting & tightening.

The skin renewal serums complement the DR.WU range of skincare products. The comprehensive offering by Taiwan’s NO.1 clinical skincare brand includes Hyalucomplex Hydrating System for dehydrated and sensitive skin; Mandelik Renewal System for rough and sensitive skin; Vitamin C+ Whitening System for dull and sensitive skin; Ageversal Repairing System for damaged and aged skin; and Acnecure Anti-Acne System for oily and acne prone skin. Completing the DR.WU skincare systems are the Mineral Make- up and capsule mask series.

Founded by the renowned dermatologist Dr. Ying-Chin Wu and his son Eric Wu, the strength of the DR.WU brand lies in the founder’s 40 years of clinical experience and extensive research on the Asian skin structure. The result – a technologically-advanced skincare line of high potency products based on doctor’s prescription that one can conveniently apply in the comfort of home.

The brand founder who is also known as “The Father of Cosmetic Medicine” shared a few valuable tips during his recent visit to Kuala Lumpur in conjunction with the introduction of the innovative serum.

“To attain a clear and flawless complexion, basic cleansing is necessary followed by a gentle renewal skincare that can remove dead and old cells while improving cell metabolism. Otherwise the accumulation of old and dead skin cells will make skin look dull, while causing acne and blackheads form. Also the thickened layer of old and dead skin cells will not allow skin to effectively absorb any skincare products you apply, no matter how much you apply or how good they are,” said Dr. Ying-Chin Wu.

Debunking the common misconception that only dry skin requires hydration and not oily skin, Dr. Wu clarified, “With much of the human body made up of water, dehydration of the skin or body will cause problems. Therefore hydration is the fundamental of healthy skin and is a very important concept regardless of skin type. In the case where oily skin is caused by the imbalance of oil and moisture – where externally skin is oily but dry inside – hydration through the use of moisturiser is still needed.”

Speaking at the launch event, Sam Wong the General Manager of Vast Diversified Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor of DR.WU in Malaysia, said, “Created for Asian skin needs by one of Asia’s leading dermatologists, it is without doubt that DR.WU products are of uncompromising quality and suitable for even the most sensitive skin.

The product lines contain no alcohol, fragrance and paraben. Further enhanced with advanced technology, using DR.WU products is highly effective with results similar to having your very own doctor treating your skin at home and we look forward to bringing DR.WU to more Malaysians.”

The launch also marked the DR.WU partnership with Watsons Malaysia where the range of products are sold at selected stores and Watsons online. Present at the event was Watsons Malaysia’s General Manager and Country Head, Caryn Loh, who shared insights on the evolving skincare trends in Malaysia. For more product information, visit DR.WU Malaysia on Facebook.

DR.WU: Taiwan’s NO.1 Clinical Skincare

DR.WU, the leading medical skincare brand in Taiwan was founded in 2003 by the renowned dermatologist Dr. Ying-Chin Wu, along with his eldest son Eric Wu. With 40 years of vast clinical experiences and extensive research on skin structure, and a formula based on doctor’s prescription, DR.WU has created a technologically-advanced skincare line of high potency products for sensitive skin. With these products, customers are able to enjoy skincare just like having a doctor perform medical treatments at home, maintaining a perfect complexion through the most simple yet effect ways. Our philosophy behind our work is to bring about non-surgical solutions in enhancing one’s beauty and wellness.

11street Signs MOU with MABOPA and Initiates ‘Pesta Buku Online’

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Ishak Hamzah, President of MABOPA (left) handing over the signed Memorandum of Understanding to Lyle Yoo, General manager of Merchandising, 11street (right), witnessed by Abdul Wahab Ibrahim, Director, Permanent Secretariat of National Book Council, Malaysia.

11street and MABOPA’s first-ever online book fest aims to cultivate Malaysians’ love for reading by bringing more publishers on board to offer books, stationery and media products with sales up to 70% and shipping discounts

Prominent bookstores such as MPH, BookXcess and Borders participate in book fest to offer a myriad of books on the online marketplace, which currently carries over 500,000 books and media available for online shoppers

Kuala Lumpur, 11 May 2017 – 11street, one of Malaysia’s largest e-malls, boosted its book inventories through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Malaysian Publishers Association (MABOPA) at the Kuala Lumpur Lifestyle Exhibition last week. The MoU aimed to bring in more publishers aboard its e-commerce wagon through 11street’s first-ever online book fair, ‘Pesta Buku Online’, and was signed by President of MABOPA, Ishak Hamzah and 11street’s General Manager of Merchandising, Lyle Yoo, witnessed by Abdul Wahab Ibrahim, Director, Permanent Secretariat of National Book Council, Malaysia.

The ‘Pesta Buku Online’ campaign came at the back of 11street’s recent finding that Malaysians have taken an increasing interest in purchasing books and media online. “Our recent campaign gave us a very surprising insight about Malaysian consumers, whereby product categories such as health and beauty; fashion; and electronics have always been the three most purchased by consumers. But now, consumers have also started looking into buying more books and media online,” said Lyle Yoo, 11street’s General Manager of Merchandising.

The campaign included exclusive online promotion to benefit some 1.3 million students in public and private universities in Malaysia, as they are eligible to enjoy discounts with their KAD Siswa 1Malaysia (KADS1M) for low prices, fantastic choices for books and media products on the 11street platform.

Reading for a Progressive Nation

The partnership was in tandem with MABOPA’s aspiration to contribute to the National e-Commerce Strategic Roadmap outlined by Malaysia’s Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), that aims to double the country’s e-commerce growth to 20.8% by 2020.

Ishak Hamzah, President of MABOPA said: “The book industry is no stranger to the technological change. In fact, the industry has evolved over the years to cater to the ever-shifting atmosphere, and now it has come to the booming era of social media marketing for books.

“As an association, we want to take on the government’s challenge so that Malaysian SMEs can transform themselves in accordance with the National e-Commerce Strategic Roadmap. Through the partnership with 11street, we believe that the book category will take its place in the limelight, and encourage more publishers and book sellers to sell online. This in turn will encourage more consumers to purchase books at competitive prices.”

According to the last National Literacy Survey carried out in 2014[1], it is reported that Malaysians read an average of fifteen books a year[i]. The partnership serves as an enabler for consumers to buy more books on 11street at competitive prices with a myriad of books options, from the convenience of a few mouse clicks. Most importantly, the partnership hoped to encourage Malaysians to read more books to inculcate a better reading habit.

Bookstores putting their “best book forward”

 As part of its inaugural online book fair and promise to offer more product varieties on its platform, 11street has recently minted a partnership with MPH Bookstores – a bookstore no stranger to Malaysians. MPH Bookstores’ inclusion into the 11street family adds on to the latter’s existing 500,000 inventory.

In conjunction with this new partnership, from now until 19 May, MPH Bookstores rewards book lovers with discounts up to 70% on local and international titles, including new arrivals and bestsellers; along with “Buy 1 Free 1” promotions and value buy deals from as low as RM8.

For two weeks starting 5 May, consumers will see exclusive promotions from participating bookstores such as BookXcess, Borders, SMOBOOKSTORES and more. These literary items range from textbooks, reference materials, fictions and even stationeries.

Furthermore, the ‘Pesta Buku Online’ campaign also came with a shopping bonus in the form of RM7 shipping fee coupons, applicable for deliveries in East and West Malaysia. Avid book lovers are eligible to download the coupon on the 11street from 5 May to 19 May.

Yoo concluded: “11street is supportive of the government’s endeavours, hence our ‘Pesta Buku Online’ campaign. We hope that through this partnership, we are able to provide a sizeable relief for Malaysian students.”

 The KADS1M is distributed to Malaysian university students and allows debit card cardholders to receive discounts, lucky draws and more from participating partners.

For more information on the ‘Pesta Buku Online’ campaign, please visit www.11street.my and www.kadsiswa.1pengguna.com/kads1m.

Coca-Cola extends partnership with Texas Chicken until 2021

By
Tan Heng Hong
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(L-R) Gareth McGeown, Commercial Director for Coca-Cola Singapore, Malaysia & Brunei, Stephen Lusk, CEO of Coca-Cola’s Bottling Investment Group, Coca-Cola Singapore, Malaysia & Brunei, Dato’ Jaya JB Tan, Chairman of Envictus International Holdings Limited, Dato’ Kamal YP Tan, Group CEO of Envictus International Holdings Limited

19 May 2017

Coca-Cola Continues As The Wingman for Texas Chicken

Every serving of hot, fried chicken needs a good, icy beverage to complement it to create a great meal and Texas Chicken has again chosen Coca-Cola as its partner to make sure that diners continue to have that delicious experience.

Envictus Food Service Sdn Bhd – the operator of the Texas Chicken restaurants in Malaysia – has renewed its beverage partnership agreement with Coca-Cola Malaysia for another five years to December 2021 after the previous three-year agreement ended.

“We are proud to have our Coca-Cola beverages served alongside Texas Chicken’s menu items and very pleased that diners will continue to have the perfect beverage to go with their meals,” said Chief Executive Officer of Coca-Cola’s Bottling Investments Group Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei, Stephen Lusk.

Diners can continue to enjoy a choice of beverages from The Coca-Cola Company such as Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero, Sprite, Fanta Grape, Heaven & Earth Ice Lemon Tea and Minute Maid Refresh at all 35 Texas Chicken outlets in Malaysia.

Texas Chicken, which landed in Malaysia in 2013, is the value leader in the Chicken QSR category and differentiates itself by focusing on the care and attention it gives in the preparation of its food.

Texas Chicken outlets are located at AEON Bukit Tinggi Klang, Damansara Utama, Kepong, Shah Alam, Ara Damansara, Nilai, Seremban, Penang Island and Butterworth.

“We are pleased to partner with the world’s leading beverage company and look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship in our business partnership,” said Dato’ Jaya Tan, Chairman of Envictus International Holdings Limited.

The Coca-Cola Company in Malaysia

In addition to Coca-Cola, one of the world’s most valuable brands, the Coca-Cola system in Malaysia manufactures, markets and distributes over 80 products including sparkling beverages (Fanta, Sprite, A&W, Schweppes), zero-calorie sparkling beverages (Coke light, Coke zero), juice drinks (Minute Maid Pulpy), teas (Heaven and Earth) and water (Dasani).

Coca-Cola has invested RM1 billion in Malaysia since 2010, creating more than 800 jobs and touching over 75,000 customers directly with a total reach of over 200,000 customers across Peninsula Malaysia and East Malaysia. Through its programmes and partnerships Coca-Cola Malaysia aims to make a lasting positive difference in the local community.

From promoting active lifestyles through their partnership with the Olympic Council in Malaysia, to working with Raleigh International and Muslim Aid Malaysia to provide access to clean water for more than 22,000 villagers in rural Sabah, and economically empowering women in East Malaysia through the SURI entrepreneurship programme – Coca-Cola is committed to building sustainable communities in Malaysia.

 About The Coca-Cola Company

The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is the world’s largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with more than 500 sparkling and still brands and more than 3,800 beverage choices. Led by Coca-Cola, one of the world’s most valuable and recognizable brands, our company’s portfolio features 20 billion-dollar brands, 18 of which are available in reduced-, low- or no-calorie options. Our billion-dollar brands include Diet Coke, Coca-Cola Zero, Fanta, Sprite, Dasani, vitaminwater, Powerade, Minute Maid, Simply, Del Valle, Georgia and Gold Peak. Through the world’s largest beverage distribution system, we are the No. 1 provider of both sparkling and still beverages.  More than 1.9 billion servings of our beverages are enjoyed by consumers in more than 200 countries each day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our company is focused on initiatives that reduce our environmental footprint, create a safe, inclusive work environment for our associates, and enhance the economic development of the communities where we operate. Together with our bottling partners, we rank among the world’s top 10 private employers with more than 700,000 system associates.

For more information, visit Coca-Cola Journey at www.coca-colacompany.com, follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/CocaColaCo, visit our blog, Coca-Cola Unbottled, at www.coca-colablog.com or find us on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/the-coca-cola-company.

About Texas Chicken

Texas Chicken is a highly recognized brand name in the Quick Service Restaurant sector and is one of the largest quick-service chicken concepts in the World. Texas Chicken serves freshly prepared, high quality, flavorful chicken both Original and Spicy and tenders with classic sides and hand-made from scratch biscuits. Texas Chicken differentiates from its competitors in care and attention given in preparation of food, and is positioned as the value leader in the Chicken QSR category. Texas Chicken Malaysia is operated by Envictus Food Service Sdn Bhd. Texas Chicken first landed in Malaysia on 2013 with its first outlet at Aeon Bukit Tinggi Klang, Selangor. Through the years has subsequently opened 35 other stores across the Klang Valley, Negeri Sembilan and Penang. Their outlets are located Aeon Bukit Tinggi Klang, Uptown PJ, Kepong, Shah Alam, Ara Damansara, Nilai, Seremban, Penang Island and Butterworth.

For further information, kindly visit Texas Chicken at http://www.texaschickenmalaysia.com/, follow us at Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TexasChickenMalaysia or visit our instagram at https://www.instagram.com/texaschickenmalaysia/

TENA and Harley Owners Group Malaysia Travels 1,742KM to End Stigma Surrounding Incontinence

By
Tan Heng Hong
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(From L-R) Evelyn Chan and Roslan bin Ismail at the launch of the TENA Empowering Tour.

TENA Empowering Tour to tour West Malaysia and drive change in perception and in action towards incontinence

Kuala Lumpur, 18 May 2017 – TENA and the Harley Owners Group (HOG) Malaysia have teamed up to show the people of Malaysia that it is time to give bladder weakness a share of voice in the country. With 16 riders travelling over 1,700 kilometres throughout West Malaysia, TENA aims to stop the social stigma surrounding incontinence and improve the quality of life for those living with it.

During the flag off ceremony, Evelyn Chan, Marketing Director of SEA Vinda Group said, “As the leader in continence care globally and in Malaysia, TENA has always been committed to raising awareness on incontinence. In that, we believe that it is time we do things differently to change how people think and behave towards incontinence.”

Evelyn Chan, Marketing Director of SEA Vinda Group and Roslan bin Ismail (aka TJ), Director of Harley Owners Group (HOG) KL Chapter Malaysia with riders of the Harley Owners Group. (image above)

“With the support of the Harley riders and Continence Foundation of Malaysia, we hope that the TENA Empowering Tour will bring about a positive change in the conversation surrounding incontinence. Some of the riders are the perfect example of our mission to help those living with incontinence continue leading a full, happy and adventurous life.”

Incontinence happens when one loses control of his or her bladder involuntarily. Living with incontinence is an emotional ride where embarrassment and withdrawal from family and friends is a norm. With this tour, TENA is dedicated to show the people of Malaysia that incontinence is not something to be ashamed of.

Dr Peter Ng Eng Pin, President of Continence Foundation of Malaysia, was also at the flag off ceremony. He said, “Bladder weakness is a condition commonly faced by many. In Malaysia alone, at least 1.4 million Malaysians may be suffering from some form of incontinence[1]. Though many live with this problem, very few can talk about it openly as they think that they alone have this condition. This is topped with the many misconceptions regarding incontinence – one being that it happens only to the elderly. However, statistics show that people as young as 20 years old may have this condition1.”

Mr. Roslan bin Ismail (also known as TJ), Director of Harley Owners Group (HOG) KL Chapter Malaysia said, “During the tour, we hope to change the thoughts, action and lives of those living with incontinence. We hope they can begin to openly seek help with the support of their family and friends.”

The TENA Empowering Tour begins on 18 May 2017 and will be making pit-stops at Tesco Tebrau Johor Bahru, Tunas Manja Group Indera Mahkota Kuantan, Pantai Timur Hypermarket Kelantan, and end at Komtar Penang before returning to Kuala Lumpur.

During the pit-stops, TENA and HOG will be collecting social media pledges for the cause from the general public. For every pledge submitted, TENA will donate one pack of TENA product to an old folks’ home.

At the event, TENA also highlighted its TENA Pants product range – the TENA Pants Plus and TENA Pants Value. This range is designed for those who are active physically and socially. Alongside its discreet features that provide maximum security against leakage and odour, the TENA Pants can also be worn conveniently just like underwear, making it easy to use on a daily basis.

Evelyn Chan added, “There is no reason that incontinence should deny us the very things we most enjoy in life. Many who have bladder weakness tend to shy away from social activities for fear of an ‘accidental leak’ or that others might notice the urine odour. We hope that TENA Pants will give them a chance to live their lives without restrictions.”

The TENA Pants product range which comes as TENA Pants Plus and TENA Pants Value are available at most retail outlets throughout Malaysia. The recommended retail prices are RM32.90 for the TENA Pants Plus and RM25.90 for the TENA Pants Value. Those interested in trying TENA Pants Plus can contact TENA Careline at 1800-88-9988 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm) or register at www.TENA.com.my for a free sample.

For more information about the TENA Empowering Tour, please visit https://www.facebook.com/TENA.Malaysia.

[1] Based on Pop from US Census Bureau IDB, Prevalence Calculation from VINDA Feb 2017 and International Continence Society

Facts About Incontinence

According to the World Health Organization, more than 200 million people worldwide are affected by bladder problems[1]. In Malaysia alone, at least 1.4 million Malaysians may be suffering from some form of incontinence1. It may affect 1 in 3 women over the age of 40[2] and 1 in 20 men at some point in their lives1. Additionally, at least 1 in 2 senior citizens may be living with urinary incontinence1.

Incontinence occurs when there is an involuntarily loss of urine or faecal from the bladder. Though not life threatening, this prevalent problem has had many misconceptions including that only older people are affected. Another important thing to note is that bladder leakage is not a disease, it is a symptom contributed by underlying health conditions. Without proper awareness to the condition, people will still take this issue lightly and avoid pursuing medical help due to embarrassment.

About TENA

As a global leader* in incontinence care, TENA has over 50 years of specialist experience in delivering continuous innovation. TENA as The Understanding Specialist is dedicated to empowering healthcare professionals and people living with incontinence with product, solution and knowledge in continence care.

*Based on SCA Annual Report 2016.

 About SCA

SCA Hygiene Marketing (M) Sdn Bhd is part of VINDA GROUP, one of the largest companies for hygiene products in Asia. The Vinda Group has nearly 10,000 employees, and sales are conducted under many strong tissue and personal care brands such as Vinda, Drypers, TENA, Dr. P, Libresse, VIA, Tempo, Tork, Libero and Sealer.  Vinda has its headquarters in Hong Kong and is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (stock code: 3331.HK). SCA, a leading global company for hygiene products from Europe, is the majority shareholder of Vinda.

[1] All About Incontinence, Some Statistics about Urinary and Faecal Incontinence, http://www.allaboutincontinence.co.uk/incontinence-statistics

[2] Based on a survey conducted by Dr Peter Ng with women over 40 in Malaysia

Tamer doogh drink for export market

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Doogh, a popular yoghurt drink in Iran and in some other Middle East countries, has a new tamer version for non-drinkers overseas. In Iran, doogh is made from mint, yoghurt and water (or club soda).

Not all foreigners like the taste of doogh. The drink can be said to be an acquired taste and that is the key reason why Iran’s largest agro-industrial producer Solico Group created Lucky Doo two months ago for the export market.

Introducing Lucky Doo from Kalleh

Solico Group showcased its new carbonated dairy drink Kalleh Lucky Doo at SIAL China 2017 (17-19 May 2017). The carbonated dairy drink is described as having the following characteristics:

  • 40% less sugar than soft drinks. The sweetness comes from lactose
  • Each bottle is equivalent to calcium from three glasses of milk
  • Has lactic acid, which causes the sourness in yoghurt and doogh
  • It is completely free from artificial colours and additives

The range comprises four flavours – apple, pomegranate, lemon mint and cola.

This product is currently not available in China but the sampling at the trade show did attract quite a crowd for the novelty drink. Solico is looking for a local distributor to market Lucky Doo in the country.

Apart from Luckydoo, Solico Group also showcased its zero lactose milk, flavoured milk, milk-based coffee, malt-based drink, cheese, ice cream and carbonated fruit juice.

  • All the photos were taken by the author at SIAL China 2017

Possh soymilk with 10x more collagen peptide

By
Tan Heng Hong
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In Malaysia, soymilk is a huge category and is classified under Asian drinks. Recent innovations include the use of non-GMO soybeans and added with collagen and basil seeds. At the end of 2016, F&N launched Nutrisoy Fresh, the country’s first pasteurised fresh soymilk drink.

UBI, the producer of Soy Up

United Business International Sdn Bhd (UBI) is known for its Soy Up soy milk drink. The range includes Less Sugar, + Collagen and Original. The + Collagen contains 500mg of collagen peptide from marine fish.Possh with 10x more marine collagen

The same company behind the Soy Up brand has introduced Possh soymilk drink. The drink contains 10x more collagen peptide from marine fish at 5,000mg compared with Soy Up + Collagen.

The price of of Possh 750ml is more expensive at RM 8.90 compared to Soy Up + Collagen at RM 4.90. This product was spotted at Sam’s Groceria at Nu Sentral.

Interview with 7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Bhd CEO Gary Brown

By
Tan Heng Hong
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From right to left - Mr Eng Sheng Guan, CEO MOLPay Sdn Bhd, Mr Gary Brown, CEO 7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Berhad, Mr Hans-Peter Ressel, CEO of Lazada Malaysia.

We caught up with Gary Brown, CEO of 7-Eleven Holdings Berhad, during the official launch of the collaboration between Lazada and 7-Eleven on offline payment service on 11 May 2017. We asked him about own label and future plans of 7-Eleven, the biggest convenience store chain in Malaysia.

Selective but aggressive in growing own label

Brown described the convenience store chain’s private label strategy as “selective but aggressive.” He cited “own label in general in Malaysia is relatively small.” In hypermarket, “private label is a small percentage of hypermarket sales,” said Brown.

Even though own label’s revenue contribution is small, he said 7-Eleven is seeing “fantastic traction on own label.” Brown used the words “extremely well” to describe the performance of 7-Eleven’s private label bread and potato chips. He added the retailer has gone into paper products such as tissues where they have become the number two brand in store.

Brown said they are “caution in the way we roll it [own label] out so that we don’t get too aggressive” as own label is small in the country.

Emphasising freshness for bread

When it comes to private label packaged bread, 7-Eleven wants customers to feel that its own label packaged bread is totally fresh. The strategy was to move the packaged bread from the enclosed shelf out to the open. We have talked about this in our earlier post.

When asked if there are plans to change the packaging of the own label bread, Brown said the convenience store chain has “plans in place to make it more eye catching and more attractive but still with the cues of fresh.” He cited examples of colours such as purple or bright green that could make consumers feel that the packaged bread is not fresh. The key reason why the packaging of the bread is currently brown is because brown conveys a sense of “freshness,” explained Brown.

Categories with good growth

Brown said the company saw good growth in confectionery, salty snacks and perishable produce like dairy. Strong growth is also seen in hot beverage like coffee (RM 2 per cup) and fresh food such as sandwiches. The retailer has added more healthier products to its range to meet consumer demand for healthier options.

Not all stores will have Wi-Fi

There are Wi-Fi in some outlets. However, Brown does not “foresee they will go to every store because he thinks it is not necessary” citing “connectivity is so much available.” Strong connectivity has made having Wi-Fi inside the store becoming “not a real necessity in every single store” but the retailer “will look at a selected basis” for stores that need Wi-Fi.

E-wallet among services in the pipeline

7-Eleven plans to introduce e-wallet that will enable consumers to spend in the store. Brown also disclosed that it “has launched or is in the process of launching some new gift cards.”

Seating

Adding seats inside convenience store is a natural progress as “consumers become more convenience savvy” stressed Brown. He wants his customers to become comfortable. If the customer feels comfortable, they will buy more products from the store.

To open minimum 150 outlets per year

The two factors that affect the opening of new stores are location and market condition, said Brown. He described the current market as being “very soft.” 7-Eleven will open at least 150 stores per year with 35% of the new stores to be located in the Klang Valley and the rest in the north in Penang, in the south in Johor Baru (JB), East Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak) and East Coast.

The capital expenditure to open 200 new stores and refurbish 200 outlets in RM 85 million per year.

Illicit cigarettes hurting the market

Brown said the “high excise on cigarettes and the very high illicit component have certainty hurt the total market”. He added that “cigarettes are key category for us.”

The illicit cigarette trade accounted for 57.1% of market share as of December 2016, according to a report by The Edge Malaysia. The jump in the share of illicit cigarette market share is attributed the 40% hike in excise duty in November 2015.

Tobacco accounts for over one-third of revenue in 2010-2013, making it an important revenue contributor to the store, according to the 7-Eleven Malaysia IPO prospectus.

Consumer confidence very soft

Brown said “consumer confidence has been very soft and has been for sometime.” He said the soft spending can be seen in “all retail markets.” He felt 2018 would be better than 2017. The timing of election will also affect consumer confidence.

In the Philippines, the election year in 2017 boosted the revenue of the local 7-Eleven operator. “The improved financial performance was boosted by election related spending in the first quarter and continued up to the second quarter,” said Philippine Seven Corp.

When asked would election boost revenue at 7-Eleven, Brown said “we certainly hope that maybe there is some stimulus given to our consumers in the election year and we would like to pick up our fair share of that increase spending and confidence.” He said “consume confidence is such as a big thing in terms of how that translates into consumer spending.”

*Image of market share of illicit cigarette from The Edge Market, April 2017. The other images were photographed by the author.

Beverage companies embrace L-Carnitine – new Fit ‘n Right isotonic drink

By
Tan Heng Hong
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In the Philippines, the Del Monte Fit ‘n Right brand, well known as a lifestyle juice beverage which aids weight loss, has entered the sport drink category.

Del Monte Fit ‘n Right juice

Image from the web

Del Monte Fit ‘n Right was first available in single-serve cans in 2006 before expanding into the PET format in October 2007. It was given a new formula in the fourth quarter of 2011 to enhance the drink’s fat-burning properties. Del Monte Fit ‘n Right juice comes with the fat burning ingredient L-carnitine and Green Coffee Extract (GCE) to block the body’s sugar absorption.

Introducing L-Carnitine to isotonic drink

Del Monte Fit ‘n Right is targeting sports junkies with a new drink that not only hydrates but also burns fat. The new Fit ‘n Right Active Isotonic Drink is the first 2-in-1 isotonic drink in the Philippines with electrolytes to rehydrate and L-carnitine to reduce fat.

https://www.facebook.com/FitnRight/videos/10155572231929206/

Beverage companies embrace L-carnitine – Sappe Beauti Drink

The fat burning ingredient L-carnitine is featured in several new beverage launched in the Asia-Pacific region in the first half of 2017. Thailand’s Sappe expanded the lineup of the Beauti Drink range for the domestic market in 2017 with the addition of Active Force and Relaxing Calm. The functional beauty drink Active Force contains L-carnitine, while Relaxing Clam features L-theanine.

WRP Coco Splash for female

Indonesia’s Nutrifood unveiled WRP Active Coco Splash, a new coconut water with fat burner, making it the first of its kind in the market. The drink is aimed at women. More details can be found here.

https://www.facebook.com/WRPdiet/videos/10155393294138395/

Mansome functional drink for men

The Mansome functional drink for men by T.C. Pharmaceutical Industries now comes with a new packaging highlighting its key ingredients – L-glutathione and L-carnitine.

Below is a TV commercial for Mansome in 2016 before the packaging change. It highlights the function of L-carnitine in block and burn.

What Mini Me thinks

Beverages with L-carnitine tend to target a certain gender group – female (Sappe Beauti Drink and WRP Coco Splash) and male (Mansome). The new Del Monte Fit ‘n Right Active Isotonic Drink with L-carnitine appears to have bridged the gender divide as it is aimed at both male and female looking to burn fat while engaged in sporting activities.

7-Eleven Malaysia, Lazada Malaysia and MOLPay Collaborates to Offer Over-The-Counter Payment Solutions to Malaysians

By
Tan Heng Hong
-
From left: Lazada Malaysia CEO Mr. Hans-Peter Ressel, 7-Eleven Malaysia CEO Mr. Gary Brown, and MOLPay CEO Mr. Eng Sheng Guan.

PRESS RELEASE

Kuala Lumpur, 11th May 2017 – 7-Eleven Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., a wholly owned subsidiary of 7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Berhad and the No.1 standalone convenience store chain in the country with over 2,100 stores is proud to announce its latest in-store service offerings. With immediate effect, 7-Eleven Malaysia Sdn Bhd will roll out Lazada Malaysia’s offline payment services in stores nationwide through partnership with MOLPay, 7-Eleven’s strategic partner and technology provider for in-store payment services.

With enablement of this payment service, 7-Eleven Malaysia further extends its convenience of enhancing customers’ online shopping experience in Lazada Malaysia. Once customers have confirmed their order and proceed to checkout with 7-Eleven as the preferred payment option, they can continue with their transaction by presenting a printed slip or SMS code of their online purchases to the cashier at any 7-Eleven stores nationwide.

“The partnership is a strategic fit, leveraging on 7-Eleven and MOLPay’s individual strengths, and we see this as an alternative payment option for online shoppers. Through this collaboration, we enable Malaysians to shop for over 12 million items available on our website, combining it with the familiarity of paying over-the-counter at any 7-Eleven stores nationwide,” said Hans-Peter Ressel, CEO of Lazada Malaysia.

This further reinforces 7-Eleven Malaysia’s commitment in bringing the latest retail offerings as well as added convenience to more than 900,000 daily customers with 7-Eleven Malaysia CEO, Mr. Gary Brown saying, “Our aim is to ensure that we fulfill our customers’ expectations and provide them with the convenience they need. Hence, we believe it is important for us to keep up with the hottest trends as well as introduce new products and services that would garner further attraction and leave a positive impact on our customers. Lazada’s over-the-counter payment presents an ideal alternative for shoppers to enjoy shopping online further, as they can now process their transactions offline at any 7-Eleven stores, 24-7.”

Mr. Eng Sheng Guan, CEO of MOLPay also commented, “This MOLPay CASH offered in 7-Eleven stores provides financial inclusion to ensure all households and businesses have access to and participation in Malaysia’s digital economy regardless of their income level. We should not neglect the fact that Malaysia still has substantial of population which do not have or limited access to digital banking. The partnership with Lazada and 7-Eleven thus creates awareness as well as releases the potential to access to broader customer base that has not been captured before.”

With more than 2,100 outlets across the country, 7-Eleven Malaysia continuously aspires to elevate customers’ shopping experiences and to scale greater heights as the largest stand-alone convenience store operator in Malaysia. To meet today’s expectations in providing convenience to customers; 7-Eleven Malaysia opts to stay close to its customer’s heart by staying true to its motto, Always There for You.

About 7-Eleven Malaysia

7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Berhad through its subsidiary 7-Eleven Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. is the owner and operator of 7-Eleven stores in Malaysia. Incorporated on 4 June 1984, 7-Eleven Malaysia has made its mark in the retailing scene and have been a prominent icon for over 32 years. 7-Eleven Malaysia is the pioneer and largest 24-hours standalone convenience store operator in Malaysia with over 2,100 outlets nationwide and serves more than 900,000 customers daily. 7-Eleven stores can be found across bustling commercial districts to serene suburban residential compounds throughout Malaysia, from petrol stations and LRT stations to shopping malls and medical institutions. 7-Eleven is Always There For You.

Where is the best burger in town?

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Where can we get the best burger stall in Malaysia? Unilever Food Solutions (UFS) Malaysia has just launched a website in April 2017 called Burger Kat Mane, literally means “Where is the burger.” The website comes in Malay and English.

Location-based website

“Diners can check out their local burger options or even go on a burger foodie trail as the site is map-based and makes finding the locations a breeze,” said Unilever Food Solutions (UFS) Malaysia Marketing manager Angeline Ho in a statement published in The Star newspaper on 25 April 2017.

She added that “they can also choose to rate their favourite burger joints on Burger Kat Mane and share their opinions with other users via the Burger Kat Mane Facebook page.”

Top destination for burger at night

The burger stalls in Malaysia normally start operating at night and well into the wee hours. So far, the burger stalls are independently owned and run mainly by enterprising Malay entrepreneurs serving halal burgers. They do not have a physical store but has a permanent location (ie in front of a 7-Eleven) where consumers know where to find them. The clienteles come from all walks of life and from all segments of the society.

There is no exact statistics on the number of burger stalls in Malaysia. The site Burger Kat Mane claims to connect to nearly 10,000 burger stalls nationwide. The exact number of burger stalls in the country should be more than that because the barrier of entry is very low.

These burger stalls form a formidable challenge to fast food operators like McDonald’s especially at night and during the “graveyard slot” from 12am to 2am.

Burger Kat Mane coverage

The author’s favourite burger stall at Bandar Baru Ampang is not listed on the site. Nevertheless, the portal has done a good job in coming out with the listing that covers all the states in Malaysia including Sabah and Sarawak. Most of the listings are concentrated in the Klang Valley region, which includes Kuala Lumpur.

Here is an example of the listing at Serdang Perdana in the state of Selangor. The site includes detailed information about the location and the contact number. Consumers can share it on Facebook and Twitter as well as rank it.

What Mini Me thinks

UFS’ Burger Kat Mane is seen as an initiative by the mayonnaise supplier to strengthen its relationship with burger stall operators who are also the main users of the Lady’s Choice mayonnaise. The value-added service will work towards securing the bond between the burger stall operators and Lady’s Choice mayonnaise by helping to link end-consumers with the burger stall operators where some of them are still not social media savvy.

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