Category: Business

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) In recognition of its successful corporate-community/nonprofit partnerships for uplifting social quality, Shan Shares, a corporate identity of Shan Foods, has been conferred an award in the category of “Collaboration Partnership” at the 11th Annual Corporate Social Responsibility Summit & Awards 2022 during a ceremony held at a local hotel in Karachi.

The Annual CSR Summit and Awards, organized every year by The Professionals Network (TPN), is the first and only nationally-recognized CSR awards of Pakistan, registered with the IPO, that honors leading corporations from across the country for their outstanding and innovative efforts for the wellbeing of individuals, communities and the environment.

Being one of the participants of the UN Global Compact, Shan Foods works with the United Nations Association of Pakistan to align its CSR initiatives in accordance with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Shan Shares, the CSR branch of Shan Foods that personifies the brand’s corporate citizenship, is founded on the same mission of creating socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable world. For this purpose, Shan Shares rallies partnerships with corporates and governments, and advocates for collective action for a healthy and equal planet. The accolade for “Collaboration Partnership” by CSR Awards 2022 underscores Shan Shares’ commitment towards community development as an integral part of its Corporate Responsibility initiatives.

Sharing her views on the achievement, Maria Rashdi, Head of Corporate Communications and PR at Shan Foods said, “As evident from the name itself, Shan Shares is rooted in the philosophy of sharing and caring and believes that it is up to all of us, from individuals to businesses and governments, to make sure that we leave behind a prosperous and sustained world for generations to come. This is why all our CSR initiatives are dedicated towards our focus areas such as quality education, women empowerment, gender equality, and community engagement and enhancement, and we have been tirelessly playing our role through various programs to reach out to a wider network and make meaningful contribution in the society. It is an honor for us to be recognized for our efforts by the CSR Awards. This not only shows our dedication towards development of our community but also motivates us further to continue our mission in line with our CSR objectives.”

In recognition of its efforts for the community, Shan Foods was also the recipient of “Community Impact Award” at the last year’s annual CSR Awards.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Bank Alfalah, one of the largest private banks in Pakistan and one of the pioneers in the digital banking realm has partnered with Alchemative, a 1-Click Checkout Solution. The two innovative organizations have collaborated to facilitate digital payments for e-commerce businesses. Alchemative enables organizations to sell products globally through an integration with Alfa Payment Gateway. This platform will enable a robust digital payments collection mechanism.

The Alfa Payment Gateway is a unique e-commerce payment gateway, allowing businesses to go online through a comprehensive e-commerce payments infrastructure. The platforms provide distinct opportunities for businesses that are moving with times and adopting digital payments for facilitation of customers. The partnership between Bank Alfalah and Alchemative is designed to provide solutions that enable online retailers to collect payments in real time and in a simple and secure manner from their customers via multiple payment modes e.g. Credit and Debit cards, Bank Alfalah Wallets and Alfa Bank Accounts.

Key features

Group Head Digital Banking Group – Yahya Khan was pleased to commemorate this business expansion partnership and stated “This partnership is another step towards our objective to offer seamless digital banking and payment services to customers in an efficient manner. It highlights our passion to work with Fintechs and Technology companies and invest in profitable business expansion partnerships to help Pakistani merchants access the e-commerce marketplace.” Some of the key features of Alfa Payment Gateway include:

• Instant and Digital Merchant Onboarding
• No setup/Annual/Maintenance fee
• Powerful Merchant Portal
• Merchant Financing and BNPL
• Pay by Link (Ideal for merchants without a website)

The CEO of Alchamative – Umar Rana stated, “Our aim is to connect the customers, merchants as well as financial institutions in order to fast track digital adoption in the country that results in transparency along with sustainable economic growth. We have built an entire eco-system of e-commerce and all things digital to help facilitate various industries. This partnership is another proud step towards our vision of transforming businesses, people and communities through the power of technology.”

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Lahore – Wednesday, 2nd March, 2022: The largest exhibition of automobiles in the country – The Pakistan Auto Show 2022 (PAPS 2022) is finally going to happen in Pakistan on 27th July, 2022 – 29th July, 2022 at the Expo Center Lahore, organized by the Pakistan Automotive Parts and Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM).

It is the most electrifying initiative of the ‘Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts & Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM), representing over 300 large, medium & small industries from all over Pakistan. The theme of this year’s PAPS show is; “MAKE IN PAKISTAN. The launching ceremony happened in Lahore and was attended by a large number of automobiles and parts manufacturers across the country.

The government had announced many incentives for the auto sector a couple of months ago, followed by the Prime Minister’s Visit to China especially focussing on new investors for this growing market of 220 million. The major auto brands (OEMs), auto parts manufacturers, and ancillary industries’ leading figures packed the hall on its launching ceremony for its forthcoming 17th edition of PAPS 2022.

The event was attended by the known personalities of the automobile industry like, Mr. Muhammad Akram, Former Chairman of PAAPAM. Mr. Syed Nabeel Hashmi, The Chief Organiser, said: “About 150 international and local producers of cars, tractors, buses, antiques, motorcycles, heavy bikes, rickshaws, parts manufacturers and toolmakers showed their interests to showcase a wide range of their products. He saw a major role which PAPS 2022 would play in the auto sector, service industries, and machinery producers.”

Talking to the charged participants Mr. Rehan Riaz, the Convener of PAPS 2022, said: “Agents of international Exhibitors from all over the world like Germany, China, the UK, Iran, Bangladesh, Japan, Taiwan, India, Malaysia were present on the occasion to secure the space for their principles. The Convener also informed about inducting a Virtual-Cum-Physical show for the foreign and national exhibitors, who wish to exhibit their products remotely in PAPS-2022.”

Mr. Abdul Rehman Aizaz, Senior Vice Chairman, said: “The previous event was visited by thousands of local and international visitors and buyers from Belgium, South Africa, China, Sudan, Nigeria, UAE, Sri Lanka, India, etc. They were anticipating an unprecedented footfall, much more than before, to this event at provincial metropolitan, he added.” Mr. Abdur Razzaq Gauhar, Chairman PAAPAM thanked the major brands like Suzuki, Honda, Millat Group of Companies, MG, and Proton to show their keen interest in exhibiting their new arrivals.

While stressing the significance of roadshows, he said they were the modern platform to bridge the business gaps across the globe. To him, exhibitions were the most effective tools of business promotions, investment, and connections. Pakistan being the 6th largest market, had a great space for the new players, and they were providing them the opportunities to enter into this potential market. Gauhar thanked the guests for an overwhelming response, which showed their confidence in this show.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir) Recognized once again for its continuing success in empowering and making a positive impact on societies, Telenor Pakistan has won the 11th Annual International Corporate Social Responsibility Award – this time for its efforts in digital learning, environmental stewardship and child protection. The prestigious CSR Award, registered with the IPO, Government of Pakistan was presented to Telenor Pakistan at a ceremony held in Karachi on 2^nd March, 2022.

The award was presented to Head of Sustainability, Telenor Pakistan, Abdullah Abdur Rehman Khan. The event was attended by key stakeholders belonging to the corporate sector, government organizations, NGOs, academia, and a few media organizations. Last year, Telenor Pakistan was awarded recognition in diversity and inclusion for its Open Mind Pakistan program and the Disability Job Portal.

Commenting on the achievement, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Telenor Pakistan, Kamal Ahmed stated, “Awards like these validate Telenor Pakistan’s commitment to what matters most. Telenor Pakistan’s sustainability programs and initiatives are important steps in that direction, and play a vital role in empowering societies and bridging the digital divide.”

Whether it’s for leveraging on long-term partnerships for a digital future or empowering societies to create a better, sustainable Pakistan, Telenor Pakistan believes in conducting business with sustainability at its core. Telenor Pakistan’s award-winning programs and projects in sustainability include interventions for underserved and vulnerable communities, such as its Digital Birth Registration, Safe Internet, Taleemabad, and Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The network truly encapsulates the essence of togetherness and prosperity with programs like Open Mind Pakistan, Naya Aghaaz, Velocity and many more designed to create an inclusive, Digital Pakistan.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)  SICPA Pakistan has been conferred with the 14^th National Forum for Environment & Health (NFEH) Annual International CSR Award for “Best Practices in CSR”, a statement revealed.

SICPA Pakistan was recognized for its efforts in undertaking various CSR initiatives in accordance with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), employees’ participation, energy conservation, environmental audits, customer complaints, and conducting numerous programs on education, health, and safety.

The ceremony was organized by the NFEH which was marked by the attendance of distinguished guests. Present at the ceremony was Chief Guest Farrukh Habib, State Minister for Information and Broadcasting; Azam Khan Swati, Federal Railways Minister; Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Syed Fakhar Imam along with other notable dignitaries.

NFEH Awards are distributed every year to national and international companies for their commendable performance in 34 different categories of Corporate Social Responsibility.

NFEH is a non-government, non-profit and voluntary organization that aims at facilitating, promoting, and creating environmental, healthcare, and educational awareness in various segments of society.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir) The Kuwait Investment Authority’s joint venture with the Pakistan Government, Pakistan Kuwait Investment Company (Private) Limited (PKIC) and R.J. Fleming & Co. Ltd. (RJF or RJF Dubai) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly set up and manage (under the requisite and appropriate licenses) a Private Equity Fund in Pakistan (the Fund).

With PKIC’s strong local footprint and experience, and R.J. Fleming’s international expertise and networks this is will be a landmark partnership in the Pakistan private equity market.

The Fund will help proven Pakistani business entrepreneurs access growth capital to scale in the local and regional markets, provide best practice governance and upgrade business management skills enabling local or international options for listing or sale.

With recent international institutional participation in the early-stage market in Pakistan and very large conglomerates already served well, there is a gap and opportunity to work with medium to large scale companies and with proven reputable business leaders to help achieve their true growth potential. 

Successful investments through this initiative will showcase opportunities in Pakistan and bode well for the overall private equity eco-system of the country. Initial seed capital for the fund shall be provided by PKIC and for subsequent rounds, funding will be raised from local as well as from international investors leveraging R.J. Fleming’s global network.

 

Pakistan’s premier cement manufacturer was recognized for its diversified investments, transparency, and impactful CSR initiatives.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir) Lucky Cement Limited has won four awards at the Int’l Corporate Social Responsibility Award organized by The Professionals Network (TPN), at the 11th CSR Summit & Awards held at a local hotel in Karachi.

Lucky Cement Limited was recognized in four categories for its exemplary performance:

 

1-            New Ventures & Investments

2-            Reporting and Transparency

3-            Community Impact

4-            Education Scholarship Program

The recognitions were awarded to highlight Company’s diversified investments to strengthen the local industries and economy, transparent reporting of international standards for its stakeholders, and impactful CSR programs that not only uplifted the underprivileged communities of rural areas but also provided academic and employment opportunities for the youth.

Speaking of the occasion, Mr. Amin Ganny, Chief Operating Officer, Lucky Cement Limited said, “Being an industry leader we understand our responsibility. Each initiative planned at the Company has a well-defined objective with the ultimate aim of strengthening Pakistan. And in this process, we have always made sure to uplift the local communities with a vision of mutual growth and prosperity”.

He further added that “We have always believed in the philosophy of “Make in Pakistan” and our investments are a depiction of our philosophy. Similarly, we have always ensured the provision of affordable education to empower our youth for a brighter future. With this, we are determined to continue making strides and further elevate the industrial landscape of Pakistan through our investments and CSR initiatives”. 

The Company has diversified into several industries including automobile, chemicals, power, life sciences, and smartphones. To further empower the youth of Pakistan, the Company also launched three dedicated scholarship programs for the rural areas in addition to its already well-established CSR program focusing on health, education, community development, and women empowerment.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Easypaisa, Pakistan’s leading digital payments App has partnered with Qisstpay, Country’s fastest growing retail payment solutions service in a first-of-its-kind 1 Click Checkout integration to facilitate convenient and secure digital payments at Qisstpay partner merchants across the country. The partnership will enable customers opting to pay their Qisstpay installment payments faster through their Easypaisa App in real-time, without any extra fee.

With a vision to digitize all cash payments in Pakistan, Easypaisa has been reaching out and collaborating with strategic partners across the country to increase the adoption of digital financial services.

Commenting on this development, CEO, Easypaisa, M. Mudassar Aqil stated; “Collaboration and technology are at the forefront when it comes to serving our mission to transform Pakistan into a cashless and financially inclusive society. Through this partnership with Qisstpay, which is the only SECP licensed company to allow installment solutions, Easypaisa is proud to have become the first mobile wallet in the country to facilitate innovative payment options like 1 Click checkout & BNPL. We are very excited to develop and further expand this space, which has a lot of potential in Pakistan’s payments landscape.”

Qisstpay, being at the forefront of launching creative innovations in the retail sphere of Pakistan, is all set to partner with Easypaisa to bring efficient digital financial services to thousands of its merchants. The company, after successful launch of Buy Now Pay Later, has recently launched frictionless 1 Click Checkout, allowing customers to checkout in just one click within seconds, enabling them to pay through digital wallets as well – Easypaisa being the first. BNPL services can also be availed using Easypaisa as a payment method, which will be a breakthrough for masses using Easypaisa digital wallet.

“Shopper habits are shifting toward online shopping and empowering the users with the most comfortable payment option is what will drive the retail landscape turnaround. I’m thrilled to partner with Easypaisa and excited for the entire Qisstpay user base as they are about to experience the freedom to spend using this widely available and popular app across the country.” – on the occasion, added by CEO & Co-Founder, QisstPay – Jordan Olivas.

The collaboration will also benefit Merchants on a large scale as the friendly payment option of Easypaisa will invite a larger audience to indulge in online shopping to enjoy faster purchase process via 1 Click checkout and payment splits. With over 10 million customers using the Easypaisa App in the last 30-days across Android and iOS platforms, Easypaisa is the most used Pakistani App across all categories and remains committed to creating a transparent digital economy where all Pakistanis can participate in.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)   Infinix opens pre-orders for its first ever 5G smartphone, the ZERO 5G, from 28th February until 6th March 2022. The most highly anticipated 5G smartphone in Pakistan comes with a price tag of PKR 49,999 as well as a free gift of Infinix XE20 truly wireless headphones on XPark. Featuring the fifth-generation technology, the ZERO 5G not only provides high speed internet with a seamless connection, but also faster downloads and greater coverage. Despite its premier 5G status, the ZERO 5G is compatible with all networks, including 2G, 3G, and 4G.

Unveiling the company’s premier 5G smartphone model in Pakistan, Joe Hue, CEO Infinix Pakistan, stated, “We are excited for the launch of the ZERO 5G – a first of its kind smartphone by Infinix that had been years in the making. Infinix has once again pioneered the industry norms by offering the most premium devices equipped with cutting-edge technology and trendy design elements to its valued users across the globe.”

The Infinix ZERO 5G showcases a Uni-Curve design with a large 6.78 inch FHD+ 1080*2460 ultra-smooth display. In addition to being integrated with a 6nm MediaTek’s Dimensity 900 master processor, the ZERO 5G has a refresh rate of 120 Hz and a touch sampling rate of 240 Hz. This ensures superior performance of the ZERO 5G and gives users a smooth experience and a quicker response to touch input when browsing webpages, scrolling through social media, or playing action-packed games.

The Wi-Fi 6 and 2×2 MIMO technology offers about 1.2Gbps connectivity speeds, allowing a greater gaming experience. The Uni-Curve design is made up of a composite material that imitates the look and feel of glass, creating a device that feels premium to touch yet comfortable to hold. The ZERO 5G comes in three exciting colors: Cosmic Black, Horizon Blue, and Skylight Orange. It supports the AndroidTM 11 operating system, with 6 GB Ram and 128 GB ROM. The ZERO 5G features a crisp 48MP main camera with 30x ultra-zoom comprising of a 13MP portrait camera and 2MP virtual camera. The 30X 48MP zoom camera allows users to capture high-quality photos from a distance. With its 960 fps slow motion capabilities in video mode, the handset allows users to capture moments that even the human eye can miss.

The front camera is 16MP Dual Flash Light coupled with enhanced artificial intelligence (AI) shooting technology that makes users look flattering in all angles and lighting conditions. Infinix is committed to bringing its users a high quality smartphone experience, by prioritizing ease, innovation, and affordability in all of its tailored devices. The ZERO 5G carries a 5000mAh battery that lasts all day long, with a 33W super-fast charging capacity that is TUV-Certified for safe charging. Infinix ZERO 5G can now be booked for pre-order at Infinix’s official online store https://pk.xpark.com/ 

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) OPPO recently launched its latest family of flagship smartphones, the Find X5 Series, marking another decisive step into the high-end market for the leading smartphone brand. The new addition to the Find X Series is the first smartphone series to be powered by OPPO’s MariSilicon X imaging NPU and other industry-leading features. With its futuristic design, seamless ceramic back panel, and premium International Warranty Service, every aspect of the Find X5 Series has been tailored to deliver the best possible user experience.

“At OPPO INNO DAY 2021, we announced our brand proposition of ‘Inspiration Ahead’, defining our commitment to constantly redraw the boundaries of the smartphone experience to make life better for everyone, regardless of the challenges and uncertainties faced,” said William Liu, Vice President and President of Global Marketing at OPPO. “With the Find X5 Series, we have raised the bar for flagship smartphones in terms of style and performance, while never stopping in our exploration of new possibilities.” 

Taking the end-to-end smartphone experience to the next level

The OPPO Find X5 Series raises the bar for flagship smartphone performance across the board with OPPO’s best-ever technology, product experience, and customer service.

MariSilicon X — OPPO’s recently-unveiled self-designed imaging NPU — makes its debut on the Find X5 Series. The NPU and its advanced in-house algorithms, including AINR, deliver a leap in computational photography performance. With MariSilicon X, the Find X5 Series is the first flagship smartphone series capable of capturing clear 4K Ultra Night Video that can rival what is seen by the human eye. Following its long-held mission to bring both natural and professional colors to smartphone imaging, OPPO has joined hands with Hasselblad to bring its Natural Color Calibration to the Find X5 Series, empowering users to unlock more emotive moments.

Elsewhere, many of OPPO’s breakthrough innovations can be found on the Find X5 Series. OPPO’s upgraded 360° Smart Antenna 3.0 ensures stable connectivity, with greater signal strength and range than other models. The series also features enhanced Flash Charging technology for faster charging, while a multi-tier cooling system ensures smooth overall performance and efficient dissipation.

Beyond the phone itself, OPPO has turned its attention to the entire customer experience. Find X5 Series owners will have access to OPPO’s premium International Warranty Service, which can be used at over 2,500 service centers in 62 countries and regions worldwide.

 

A standout flagship, driven by OPPO’s human-centric insights

Guided by OPPO’s brand mission “Technology for Mankind, Kindness for the World”, the Find X5 Series represents OPPO’s pursuit of human-centric product features and designs aimed at improving the day-to-day lives of its users.

The design of the Find X5 Series reflects every aspect of the user experience. Built with advanced manufacturing technology, the curved and continuous ceramic back panel is anti-fingerprint and comfortable to hold while also providing greater protection and heat dissipation.

OPPO’s thoughtful consideration of its users is also manifested in ColorOS 12.1, which includes features such as the O Relax digital relaxation suite and Color Vision Enhancement for those who perceive color differently or have color vision impairments.

OPPO Sets to Strengthen Presence in High-end Market with New Find X5 Series

OPPO recently launched its latest family of flagship smartphones, the Find X5 Series, marking another decisive step into the high-end market for the leading smartphone brand. The new addition to the Find X Series is the first smartphone series to be powered by OPPO’s MariSilicon X imaging NPU and other industry-leading features. With its futuristic design, seamless ceramic back panel, and premium International Warranty Service, every aspect of the Find X5 Series has been tailored to deliver the best possible user experience.

“At OPPO INNO DAY 2021, we announced our brand proposition of ‘Inspiration Ahead’, defining our commitment to constantly redraw the boundaries of the smartphone experience to make life better for everyone, regardless of the challenges and uncertainties faced,” said William Liu, Vice President and President of Global Marketing at OPPO. “With the Find X5 Series, we have raised the bar for flagship smartphones in terms of style and performance, while never stopping in our exploration of new possibilities.” 

Taking the end-to-end smartphone experience to the next level

The OPPO Find X5 Series raises the bar for flagship smartphone performance across the board with OPPO’s best-ever technology, product experience, and customer service.

MariSilicon X — OPPO’s recently-unveiled self-designed imaging NPU — makes its debut on the Find X5 Series. The NPU and its advanced in-house algorithms, including AINR, deliver a leap in computational photography performance. With MariSilicon X, the Find X5 Series is the first flagship smartphone series capable of capturing a clear 4K Ultra Night Video that can rival what is seen by the human eye. Following its long-held mission to bring both natural and professional colors to smartphone imaging, OPPO has joined hands with Hasselblad to bring its Natural Color Calibration to the Find X5 Series, empowering users to unlock more emotive moments.

Elsewhere, many of OPPO’s breakthrough innovations can be found on the Find X5 Series. OPPO’s upgraded 360° Smart Antenna 3.0 ensures stable connectivity, with greater signal strength and range than other models. The series also features enhanced Flash Charging technology for faster charging, while a multi-tier cooling system ensures smooth overall performance and efficient dissipation.

Beyond the phone itself, OPPO has turned its attention to the entire customer experience. Find X5 Series owners will have access to OPPO’s premium International Warranty Service, which can be used at over 2,500 service centers in 62 countries and regions worldwide.

A standout flagship, driven by OPPO’s human-centric insights

Guided by OPPO’s brand mission “Technology for Mankind, Kindness for the World”, the Find X5 Series represents OPPO’s pursuit of human-centric product features and designs aimed at improving the day-to-day lives of its users.

The design of the Find X5 Series reflects every aspect of the user experience. Built with advanced manufacturing technology, the curved and continuous ceramic back panel is anti-fingerprint and comfortable to hold while also providing greater protection and heat dissipation.

OPPO’s thoughtful consideration of its users is also manifested in ColorOS 12.1, which includes features such as the O Relax digital relaxation suite and Color Vision Enhancement for those who perceive color differently or have color vision impairments.

With the new Find X5 Series, OPPO is breaking new ground in technological innovation and human-centric user experience in the high-end market while sticking to its core values — a trait that OPPO will maintain as it continues to explore new possibilities in technology and products that help make life better for users worldwide.