ISELIN, N.J., Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Celerant Technology, an industry leader in retail software, eCommerce, and digital marketing solutions, is rolling out Version 2.9 of both Stratus Enterprise and Cumulus Retail. As part of this version, there will be three new embedded finance capabilities directly in the retailer dashboard â Working Capital, Fee Assist, and Disputes Defender. Together, they give retailers who process payments through Worldpay new ways to access funding, manage costs, resolve disputes, and oversee cash flow, all without leaving the retail software they already rely on for day-to-day activities.

Retailers won't see any disruption to how they manage or run their day-to-day business, and there's no processing setup or changes to existing login credentials required. Accessing the new dashboard tools comes at no added cost, and using them is entirely optional â retailers who don't wish to use these features can opt out. Throughout the rollout, Celerant's implementation and customer support teams will continue to be available to help.

"Each of these tools solves a real, everyday problem for retailers â accessing cash to fuel growth, wanting to offset rising processing costs, dreading the paperwork of a dispute, or looking for ways to improve and optimize working capital," said Katie Childs, Implementation Project Manager for Embedded Finance and Working Capital at Worldpay. "Building them directly into Celerant's platform means retailers get that value without adding a single extra login or system to manage."

The three features work together within a single embedded widget inside Celerant's platform, white-labeled with Celerant's branding and powered by Worldpay's embedded finance engine:

- Working Capital â Eligible retailers processing through Worldpay can see pre-approved financing offers directly within their Celerant dashboard. The application process takes minutes to fill out, and if approved, funds can be available in as little as one business day.

- Fee Assist â Eligible retailers can offset credit card processing costs through a managed surcharge program that helps ensure compliance with card network rules, with no separate integration required.

- Disputes Defender â Retailers get dedicated support managing payment disputes, with no upfront cost. A service fee applies only when a dispute is resolved in the retailer's favor.

"This is a pivotal expansion of what our platform can do for retailers," said Michele Salerno, Chief Growth Officer at Celerant. "We have built Version 2.9 to go beyond point of sale (POS) and inventory to help our retailers run their businesses stronger with more resilience. Working Capital, Fee Assist and Disputes Defender are the practical tools that are available to retailers where they already are, inside Celerant. This release reflects where we're investing for our retailers' future."

Access to each tool is tied to a retailer's existing Worldpay processing relationship. This means eligible retailers won't need to complete any additional setup to see the new dashboard once it becomes available. Retailers with questions about eligibility can reach out to their Celerant account representative.

Celerant and Worldpay also plan to share retailer outcomes and expand the toolset further, as adoption grows. This reflects both companies' ongoing investment in giving retailers more ways to grow without additional complexities.

For more information about Celerant's retail solutions and the Worldpay embedded finance integration, visit https://www.celerant.com/partners/worldpay/

About Worldpay

Worldpay partners with software companies to build exceptional commerce experiences. Backed by over 50 years of payments leadership and billions of transactions processed, they help platforms embed payments, grow financial services, and navigate what's next with confidence. With the technology, expertise, and scale to support every stage of the journey, they empower partners to become indispensable to the businesses they serve. To learn more, visit Worldpay.com.

About Celerant Technology

Celerant Technology is an innovative retail management software provider helping retailers expand their businesses beyond the physical storefronts into the online world. Celerant supports retailers with a unified retail system including: point of sale, inventory management, promotions and loyalty rewards, eCommerce, mobile apps, vendor and marketplace integrations, marketing, and more.

For retailers looking for ongoing educational content to help expand their business through technology, subscribe to Celerant's Retail Roundup blog:

[https://www.celerant.com/retailroundup]

SOURCE Celerant Technology

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New START site at the IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori Regina Elena will expand access to cancer clinical trials for patients in a major European oncology market

SAN ANTONIO and ROME, Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The START Center for Cancer Research ("START"), the largest global network of fully dedicated early-phase oncology clinical trial sites, and Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri ("IFO"), the public research hospital organization in Rome that includes IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori Regina Elena, today announced a strategic partnership to establish a new START early-phase clinical trial site within the Regina Elena National Cancer Institute. The collaboration is intended to expand opportunities for eligible patients in Rome, the Lazio region and across Italy to gain access to novel investigational cancer therapies through clinical trials.

Recognized by the Italian Ministry of Health as an Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Regina Elena serves patients from Rome and the Lazio region, as well as patients referred from other regions of Italy and abroad. The institute combines cancer diagnosis, treatment and research, with expertise spanning major adult solid tumors, hematological malignancies and rare cancers. IFO also includes the San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, which specializes in dermatological diseases.

Italy records approximately 390,000 new cancer diagnoses a year, according to the 2025 edition of the national report "I numeri del cancro in Italia," produced by AIOM and partner organizations. By bringing early-phase research into an established cancer institute, the partnership aims to make trial evaluation more closely connected with patients' existing oncology care.

Despite this significant cancer burden, Italy has a lower number of clinical trials relative to its population than several major Western European markets, highlighting an opportunity to expand clinical research activity and offer sponsors greater access to patients through established research institutions.

The partnership pairs START's experience running early-phase oncology trials with IFO's clinical and translational research capabilities. The Rome site will be START's first in Italy, extending its global community-based site network into an important oncology market. It will give patients, their families, and their physicians more clinical trial options as part of the continuum of care and give sponsors a new country through which to benefit from START's global network.

"Italy has a substantial cancer burden and world-class institutions, yet clinical trial activity relative to population remains lower than in several other major European markets," said Nick Slack, MBE, Chairman and CEO of START. "By partnering with IFO and the Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, an established leader in Italian cancer care and research, we can bring early-phase oncology research closer to patients across Italy and advance our mission of providing Hope Through Access."

"As a national cancer institute serving patients in Rome, Lazio, across Italy and internationally, we see this partnership as an opportunity to connect more patients with early-phase clinical research while strengthening the integration of care and innovation," said Livio De Angelis, Director General of IFO.

"Combining Regina Elena's multidisciplinary clinical and scientific expertise with START's early-phase trial network can create new opportunities for collaboration and clinical research across a broad range of cancers," said Giovanni Blandino, Scientific Director, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori Regina Elena.

Across its two institutes, IFO records on average about 10,000 inpatient and day-hospital admissions and more than 1.275 million outpatient services a year. Regina Elena belongs to the European Reference Network for adult solid cancers and is a member of Alleanza Contro il Cancro, the alliance of Italian IRCCS cancer centers.

START currently operates the largest global network of early-phase clinical trial sites, with more than 45 Principal Investigators across 17 locations in the United States and Europe. With nearly 1,000 active studies, START provides access to one of the most extensive portfolios of industry-sponsored early-phase cancer trials worldwide. The new IFO site will be fully integrated into the START network, with access to its global trial portfolio from day one.

About START

Deeply rooted in community oncology centers globally, The START Center for Cancer Research provides access to specialized preclinical and early-phase clinical trials of novel anti-cancer agents. START clinical trial sites have conducted more than 1,000 early-phase clinical trials, including for 50 therapies that were approved by the FDA or EMA. START represents the world's largest roster of early-phase Principal Investigators across its 17 clinical trial sites. Committed to accelerating passage from trials to treatments, START delivers hope to patients, families, and physicians around the world. Learn more at STARTresearch.com.

About Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri

Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri (IFO) is a public entity founded in 1926 that manages the Regina Elena National Cancer Institute (IRE) and the San Gallicano Dermatological Institute (ISG) in Rome. Since 1939, both institutes have been recognized as IRCCS, Italy's scientific institutes for hospitalization and care, with a focus on oncology and dermatology respectively. IFO combines patient care, biomedical research, and training, and treats patients at every stage of disease with precision medicine and personalized medical, surgical, radiotherapy, and nuclear medicine approaches. Learn more at ifo.it.

Media Contacts

START:

Lauren Panco / VP, Marketing

[email protected] / 609-216-4920

Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri:

Lorella Salce / Head of Communications, Press, and External Relations

[email protected] / 06 52662753 -348 5294272

SOURCE The START Center for Cancer Research

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Hiring Picks Up for a Second Straight Month and Tops the 12-Month Average

SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- America's small businesses added an estimated 38,000 net new jobs in October on a seasonally adjusted basis, according to the latest Gusto Small Business Jobs and Pay Report, marking the ninth consecutive month of positive hiring. Hiring picked up for a second straight month and came in above the 12-month average of 34,000. October picked up from September, which was revised down to 27,000 net new jobs (from an initial estimate of 28,000).

Hiring was broad across sectors, regions, and business size: 16 of 19 sectors, all four U.S. regions, and every company size tier added jobs in October. Health Care and Social Assistance again led all sectors with 13,000 net hires, followed by Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (+5,500) and Construction (+3,800). Average Hourly Earnings across small business employees rose 3.9% year-over-year to $37.50, while starting pay for newly hired workers climbed 3.0% to about $25.90 an hour.

"October was a step up in pace, but not quite a return to the pace we saw in spring," said Nich Tremper, Senior Economist at Gusto. "Hiring picked up for the second month in a row and came in above the 12-month average. We saw growth across all business sizes and in 16 of 19 sectors, and pay kept rising, with average hourly earnings up 3.9% from a year ago."

The Big Picture

At +38,000, October's net hires came in above the 12-month average of +34,000, the largest gain since July after a softer couple of months. Recent months: June (+36,000), July (+40,000), August (+25,000), September (+27,000). Prior months were revised with this release: September was revised down to +27,000 (from +28,000), and August was revised up to +25,000 (from +18,500). As always, the most recent months are subject to revision as additional payroll data arrives.

On pay, Average Hourly Earnings â the average wage across small business workers â reached $37.50 in October, up 3.9% from a year earlier and little changed from September's 4.0%. Wage growth has hovered around 4% for much of 2026, ranging from about 3.9% to 4.6%. The New Hire Pay Index â which tracks starting pay for newly hired workers â rose 3.0% year-over-year to about $25.90 an hour.

Sector Breakdown

Health Care and Social Assistance led all sectors for a ninth straight month. Top gainers:

- Health Care and Social Assistance: +13,000 net hires

- Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services: +5,500 net hires

- Construction: +3,800 net hires

- Other Services: +2,600 net hires

Sixteen of 19 sectors were in positive territory in October. Only three sectors shed jobs, and each by fewer than 300 â Mining, Accommodation and Food Services, and Management of Companies.

Regional Breakdown

All four U.S. regions posted positive net hires in October:

- South: +13,000 net hires

- Midwest: +9,400 net hires

- Northeast: +8,200 net hires

- West: +7,000 net hires

The South led for the ninth straight month. On pay, the West led wage growth at 5.0% year over year and has the highest average hourly earnings of any region at $42.00. The South grew at about the national rate of 3.9%, with the Northeast just below at 3.8%. The Midwest trailed with 3.2% growth, and its average hourly earnings of $33.00 are the lowest of the four regions.

Company Size Breakdown

All four company size tiers posted positive net hires in October:

- 20-49 employees: +15,000 net hires

- 5-9 employees: +12,000 net hires

- 10-19 employees: +7,900 net hires

- 1-4 employees: +3,600 net hires

Businesses with 20-49 employees led, back on top after the 5-9 employee tier led in August and September. Once again, all four tiers stayed positive, a sign that hiring remains broadly distributed across the small business economy.

Methodology

The Gusto Small Business Jobs and Pay Report tracks anonymized payroll data from a stratified random sample of roughly 100,000 small businesses across the United States with 1â49 employees, drawn from the 500,000+ companies on Gusto. To ensure the findings represent small businesses nationally, Gusto uses a two-stage weighting process: first, matching the national distribution of small businesses by industry, size, and region using U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages data as a benchmark; second, adjusting for company age using Census Bureau Business Dynamics Statistics data. All figures are seasonally adjusted using the U.S. Census Bureau's X-13ARIMA-SEATS methodology unless otherwise noted. The report also tracks two small business pay measures â Average Hourly Earnings and the New Hire Pay Index, a three-month rolling average of starting pay for newly hired workers â both of which are seasonally adjusted.

About Gusto

Gusto is the leading partner for small businesses, helping them with a wide variety of critical tasks, including payroll, health benefits, tax credits, compliance, 401(k), HR, and much more. Gusto serves over 500,000 small businesses across the US and is on a multi-decade journey to grow the small business economy with technology and heart.

Media Contact:

[email protected] 

SOURCE Gusto, Inc.

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The two-year online college's new concentration, embedded in its Associate of Arts in Business Administration, prepares students for marketing and brand strategy careers built on the data, platforms, and AI tools companies now use to reach customers.

NEW YORK, November 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Campus, the two-year online college built for a generation of learners frustrated by the cost and pace of higher education, today announced the launch of its Associate of Arts in Business Administration (AABA) with a Concentration in Digital Marketing and the Creator Economy. The concentration is designed to prepare students for entry-level roles in digital marketing, brand strategy, and content-driven business functions, or to transfer into related bachelor's degree programs.

"Marketing is undergoing a real shift. Brands increasingly operate like media companies, building audiences through content that is authentic and grabbing," said Todd Fitch, Program Director for Campus' Associate of Arts in Business Administration program. "But, it's also become a technical job. Our students learn to pair original ideas with the analytical and production skills that bring those ideas to life."

Goldman Sachs Research projects the creator economy's total addressable market could roughly double from $250 billion to $480 billion by 2027, driven largely by brand investment in influencer marketing and platform advertising. Meanwhile, LinkedIn's 2026 analysis of the fastest-growing marketing skills ranks performance analysis and AI literacy as the top two capabilities employers are hiring for â skills taught in Campus's new program.

Timm Chiusano, a former advertising executive at ABC, ESPN, and Spectrum, has joined Campus as a visiting professor for the program and has helped shape the concentration's curriculum. A full-time creator himself with more than 1 million followers, he brings expertise building audiences and brands on both sides of the media industry. He will deliver guest lectures when the concentration launches in January 2027.

The concentration consists of five courses woven into students' standard business course sequence. Students will build knowledge across brand strategy, platform dynamics, and marketing analytics, culminating in a capstone in either creator-brand strategy and content or marketing analytics.

Students will also learn to use AI as part of modern ideation, production, research, and workflow processes without using it as a substitute for the originality and creative judgment that digital marketing demands. Along the way, students build a portfolio that demonstrates how they research audiences, develop brands, create content, plan campaigns, and use performance data to improve their work.

"I didn't take the traditional path. I went from no college degree to Fortune 100 executive to full-time creator, and along the way realized I really love helping people figure out how to thrive at work," said Chiusano, whose viral content focuses on practical, motivational advice for Gen Z. "I'm honored to apply my real-life experience, and help the next generation of media innovators build careers they love, without drowning in debt to make that happen."

The first college built in the AI era, Campus is backed by entrepreneurs and investors including Sam Altman, Shaquille O'Neal, General Catalyst, Founders Fund, and 8VC, and is led by a board of respected former college presidents including John Wilson of Morehouse College and Gail Mellow of LaGuardia Community College. Campus delivers live, online classes taught by faculty who also teach at top colleges like UCLA, Stanford, and Howard. Campus' unique approach is grounded in a pioneering tech platform and a heavily-researched student success model proven to double two-year college graduation rates. Campus provides students with dedicated advisors, on-demand tutoring, and personalized coaching. Upon completion, students take skills learned in the program into the workforce or transfer to a growing number of four-year institution transfer partners.

Learn more about Campus' Digital Marketing and the Creator Economy concentration at http://campus.edu/business-degree-digital-marketing-concentration.

About Campus

Campus is a new way to go to college, built for students looking for a lower-cost, faster launchpad into a career â or a four-year degree. Campus delivers live, online classes taught by professors who also teach at leading universities like Stanford, and Howard University. The college's unique approach is grounded in a pioneering technology platform and a heavily-researched student success model that offers students dedicated advisors and on-demand tutoring and coaching to ensure their academic access. Campus was named one of Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies of 2024. To learn more, visit campus.edu.

SOURCE Campus.edu

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Key points

- Josh Barnes has been named president of Bank of America's Knoxville market, effective October 28, 2026.

- Barnes will lead local market strategy and collaboration across Bank of America's eight lines of business.

- As Consumer Investment Market Leader, Barnes brings 14 years of experience and deep regional expertise to the role.

KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Bank of America today announced that Josh Barnes has been named president of its Knoxville market. Barnes succeeds Terry L. Cline, who retired earlier this year.

As Knoxville market president, Barnes will connect clients, teammates and communities to the full power of the franchise and drive collaboration across the company's eight lines of business. He will lead Bank of America's efforts to grow market share in Knoxville by building strong local connections and identifying opportunities to deepen and expand client relationships.

"Josh's established leadership and experience will ensure we're delivering on our responsible growth strategy to deepen relationships with clients, the community and teammates," said Brian Moynihan, chair of the board and chief executive officer of Bank of America. "Josh will continue to grow our market share in Knoxville, delivering the full breadth of Bank of America's capabilities to help our local clients improve their financial lives."

Barnes will continue to serve as Consumer Investment Market Leader for Bank of America and Merrill, covering Nashville, Chattanooga and Knoxville. In this role, he focuses on driving market growth, advancing strategic priorities, developing high-performing teams and strengthening collaboration across business lines to deliver for clients.

Barnes joined Bank of America in Knoxville in 2012 and has held roles spanning consumer banking, small business, merchant services and wealth management. His experience across the company has given him a broad perspective on business development, client engagement and organizational leadership. He moved into market leadership in 2024.

A native of East Tennessee, Barnes attended the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and holds the Accredited Wealth Management Advisor⢠(AWMA®) designation and Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor⢠(CRPC®) certification. He is also active in the community, supporting youth financial education and community engagement initiatives, and coaching youth sports.

Market facts: Bank of America Knoxville

Bank of America has a strong and longâstanding presence in Knoxville.

- Operates four financial centers, located in Cedar Bluff, Oak Ridge, Turkey Creek, and Downtown Knoxville, and one Merrill office in the Knoxville market, with Business Banking and Middle Market Banking also serving the market.

- As of Q2 2026, Bank of America managed $793 million in FDIC insured deposits across 8 counties.

- Provided $27 million in lending to Knoxville area homebuyers in 2026.

- Extended approximately $366 million in commercial business loans and $26 million in small-business loans in Knoxville.

- Bank of America's Knoxville market has approximately $3.9 billion in Merrill client balances.

- Invested more than $2.1â¯million in grants and matching gifts to Knoxville area nonprofits since 2020.

- Employees in Knoxville have volunteered approximately 12,000 hours since 2020.

Bank of America

Bank of America is one of the world's leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving more than 69 million clients with approximately 3,500 retail financial centers, approximately 15,000 ATMs (automated teller machines) and award-winning digital banking with approximately 60 million verified digital users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. As the #1 small business lender in the United States (FDIC), Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 4 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and more than 35 countries and/or jurisdictions. Bank of America Corporation stock (NYSE: BAC) is listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

For more Bank of America news, including dividend announcements and other important information, visit the Bank of America newsroom and register for news email alerts.

Reporters may contact

Sheryl Lee, Bank of America

Phone: 1.657.234.9950

[email protected] 

SOURCE Bank of America Corporation

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BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS ANNOUNCES REFINANCING OF THE RITZ-CARLTON LAKE TAHOE

DALLAS, Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Braemar Hotels & Resorts Inc. (NYSE: BHR) ("Braemar" or the "Company") announced today that it has successfully refinanced its mortgage loan for the 170-room Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe in Truckee, California, which had an existing outstanding balance of $43.4 million, a floating interest rate of SOFR + 3.25% and a final maturity date in January 2027. The new loan totals $60.0 million with an additional $15.0 million available to be drawn in the future subject to certain conditions, has a three-year initial term with two one-year extension options and provides for a floating interest rate of SOFR + 2.65%. With this financing now in place, the Company's next hard debt maturity is not until December 2028.

"We are pleased with the execution of this refinancing, which extends the debt maturity on one of our premier luxury assets and capitalizes on tighter interest rate spreads in the market," said Richard J. Stockton, President and Chief Executive Officer.

About Braemar Hotels & Resorts

Braemar Hotels & Resorts Inc. (NYSE: BHR) is a real estate investment trust (REIT) focused on the high-growth luxury hotel and resort sector. Its industry-leading portfolio features luxury properties across the United States and the U.S. territories in the Caribbean.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements and assumptions in this press release contain or are based upon "forward-looking" information and are being made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the federal securities regulations. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "should," "potential," "intend," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "approximately," "believe," "could," "project," "predict," or other similar words or expressions. Additionally, statements regarding the following subjects are forward-looking by their nature: our business and investment strategy; anticipated or expected purchases, sales or dispositions of assets; our projected operating results; completion of any pending transactions; our ability to restructure existing property-level indebtedness; our ability to secure additional financing to enable us to operate our business; our understanding of our competition; projected capital expenditures; and the impact of technology on our operations and business. Such forward-looking statements are based on our beliefs, assumptions, and expectations of our future performance taking into account all information currently known to us. These beliefs, assumptions, and expectations can change as a result of many potential events or factors, not all of which are known to us. If a change occurs, our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, plans, and other objectives may vary materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements. You should carefully consider this risk when you make an investment decision concerning our securities. These and other risk factors are more fully discussed in the Company's filings with the SEC.

The forward-looking statements included in this press release are only made as of the date of this press release. Investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. We will not publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances, changes in expectations or otherwise except to the extent required by law.

SOURCE Braemar Hotels & Resorts Inc.

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- Mazda3 expands everyday convenience through enhanced connectivity for 2027 model year

- Mazda3 2.5 S Preferred Hatchback model offers i-Activ AWD for under $30,0001

- Expanded premium content and features offer greater value in both sedan and hatchback models

IRVINE, Calif. , Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations today announces pricing and packaging for the 2027 Mazda3. Available in both sedan and hatchback body styles, the Mazda3 offers greater value with the broader expansion of key features that customers prefer, such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with wireless phone charging. Similarly, for enthusiasts who like to row their own gears Mazda3 2.5 S Hatchback continues to offer an available 6-speed manual transmission, and that package also receives greater comfort and convenience features. These refinements to the lineup allow more customers to tailor their Mazda3 to their lifestyle, whether prioritizing all-weather confidence, everyday convenience, engaging performance or premium craftsmanship.

The 2027 Mazda3 continues to deliver the engaging driving dynamics, sophisticated design and human-centric craftsmanship that has distinguished it within the compact segment. The bold Kodo design remains a defining element of both body styles and is available in curated selection of exterior colors including Jet Black Mica, Premium Quartz Metallic and Deep Crystal Blue Mica, as well as optional Snowflake White Pear Mica, Machine Gray Metallic, Soul Red Crystal Metallic, Polymetal Gray Metallic and Ceramic Metallic.

Across the lineup Mazda3 offers responsive Skyactiv-G powertrains, a suite of standard i-Activsense safety technologies and premium interior appointments designed to elevate the driving experience. Available features such as wireless smartphone integration, Bose premium audio, advanced driver-assistance technologies and expanded AWD availability help make the 2027 Mazda3 the most versatile Mazda3 lineup yet.

MAZDA3 2.5 S (Sedan Only)

The 2.5 S offers a compelling combination of engaging performance, everyday convenience and standard technology from the start. All Mazda3 2.5 S models are powered by a naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine that produces 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque on 87 octane fuel. A six-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel drive is standard. This tried-and-true powertrain is paired with G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus), Dynamic Stability Control, Traction Control, Hill Launch Assist and Off-Road Traction Assist, all of which can help improve driver confidence in a variety of driving scenarios.

Standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, LED tail lights, cloth-trimmed seats, push-button engine start, an eight-speaker audio system with Mazda Harmonic Acoustics, Apple CarPlay ⢠and Android Auto ⢠integration, and Mazda Connected Services capability.

The 2.5 S also features a full suite of standard safety and driver-assistance technologies including Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Lane-Keep Assist, High Beam Control, Rear Seat Alert, Hill Launch Assist, Auto Hold, Smart Brake Support and Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go.

MAZDA3 2.5 S SELECT SPORT

Building upon the 2.5 S, the Select Sport adds 18-inch black metallic alloy wheels, a gloss black front grille and rear spoiler (Hatchback only) and exterior trim, black heated side mirrors, leatherette-trimmed seats, a leather shift knob and steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, illuminated vanity mirrors, and a rear center armrest with cup holders, an overhead console with sunglass holder, front seatback map pocket, and Mazda Advanced keyless entry. The 2.5 S Select Sport also features wireless Apple CarPlay⢠and Android Auto⢠functionality with Alexa Built-In for greater everyday connectivity and convenience.

MAZDA3 2.5 S PREFERRED

The 2.5 S Preferred trim adds elevated comfort and convenience features, including a power sliding-glass moonroof, eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat with memory, side mirrors which auto-tilt while in reverse, heated front seats, and additional premium interior finishes like a Qi wireless phone charger. The 2.5 S Preferred model Hatchback is also available with all-wheel drive, allowing buyers to pair these features with Mazda's predictive i-Activ AWD® system.

MAZDA3 2.5 S PREMIUM (Sedan Only)

The Premium trim introduces additional craftsmanship to the Mazda3 2.5 S Sedan lineup, with leather interior available in black or red, 12-speaker Bose Premium Audio with HD radio, and standard i-Activ AWD. The Premium trim also adds Traffic Sign Recognition to the list of safety equipment.

MAZDA3 2.5 S PREMIUM PLUS (Hatchback Only)

Newly positioned within the Mazda3 lineup, the Mazda3 2.5 S Premium Plus Hatchback blends a high level of equipment with the enthusiast favorite six-speed Skyactiv-MT manual transmission with front wheel drive.

Visual cues for the Premium Plus Hatchback include front and rear LED Signature illumination. Inside, drivers will appreciate the larger 10.25-inch center display with touchscreen functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as the heated steering wheel, an active driving display which projects on the windshield for easier viewing, as well as an adaptive front lighting system which can swivel as the vehicle drives through curves for improved visibility.

MAZDA3 2.5 TURBO PREMIUM PLUS

At the top of the Mazda3 lineup is the Turbo Premium Plus, which provides the signature Mazda premium driving experience powered by Mazda's turbocharged Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine, producing up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on 93 octane fuel, or 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft on regular 87 octane. This engine is paired exclusively with i-Active AWD and paddle shifters for greater control.

The 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus model features more aggressive bodywork to denote its greater performance potential. Sedan models feature a black rear spoiler, and Hatchback models feature a more prominent front air dam, front air guides and 2.5 Turbo-specific black rear hatch spoiler. At the rear of the vehicle, "AWD" and "Turbo" badging, along with the larger tail pipes are the last thing slower traffic will see as you zoom past.

Inside, the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus gains Homelink functionality, along with SiriusXM radio connectivity that features a three-month trial. Additionally, Sedan customers can choose between white or black leather trimmed seats, while Hatchback buyers can opt for black or red leather. A frameless auto-dimming rear view mirror wraps things up inside.

The top-spec Mazda3 also gains a 360-degree view monitor with front and rear parking sensors, Smart Brake Support â Rear and Rear Cross Traffic Braking, and with Cruising and Traffic Support for a more relaxed and supported drive.

PRICING

MSRP2 FOR THE 2027 MAZDA3 IS AS FOLLOWS:

PREMIUM PAINT COLORS:

About Mazda North American Operations

Proudly founded in Hiroshima, Japan, Mazda has a history of sophisticated craftsmanship and innovation, and a purpose to enrich life-in-motion for those it serves. By putting humans at the center of everything it does, Mazda aspires to create uplifting experiences with our vehicles and for people. Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Colombia through approximately 795 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc. in Richmond Hill, Ontario; operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City; and operations in Colombia are managed by Mazda de Colombia in Bogota, Colombia. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at news.mazdausa.com.

Follow @MazdaUSA on social media: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, and Threads.

SOURCE Mazda North American Operations

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Wissenschaftliches Institut der AOK

Arzneimittelmarkt 2027: Ausgabenbremse ersetzt keine Preisreform

Berlin (ots)

Das Wissenschaftliche Institut der AOK (WIdO) erwartet für 2027 einen Anstieg der Arzneimittel-Nettokosten der gesetzlichen Krankenversicherung (GKV) um 2,2 bis 2,8 Prozent. Damit dürfte sich das Ausgabenwachstum unter dem Einfluss des GKV-Beitragssatzstabilisierungsgesetzes (GKV-BStabG) vorübergehend deutlich abschwächen. Insbesondere der zusätzliche Herstellerabschlag soll die Krankenkassen um knapp 2,5 Milliarden Euro entlasten. Wie groß diese Entlastung tatsächlich ausfällt, hängt von den Ausnahmen im Rahmen der Standortklausel und ihrer Finanzierung ab. Unabhängig davon bleiben die strukturellen Ursachen stark steigender Arzneimittelausgaben bestehen. Das WIdO sieht deshalb dringenden Handlungsbedarf bei der Preisbildung neuer Arzneimittel - auch unter dem wachsenden internationalen Druck durch die US-Arzneimittelpolitik. "Die absehbare kurzfristige Drosselung der Ausgabendynamik im kommenden Jahr ist noch keine dauerhafte Lösung. Sie verschafft uns nur etwas Zeit. Diesen Spielraum müssen wir jetzt für eine Reform der Arzneimittelpreisbildung nutzen", erklärt WIdO-Geschäftsführer Helmut Schröder.

Eine aktuelle WIdO-Analyse zum Arzneimittelmarkt 2025 zeigt, dass sich der Trend fortsetzt, dass neuere und häufig kostenintensivere Arzneimitteltherapien etablierte Behandlungen ersetzen oder ergänzen. Die Versorgung wird dadurch teurer, auch wenn ihr Mengenvolumen nur moderat wächst. Besonders deutlich zeigt sich dies im Patentmarkt. Kurzfristige Eingriffe bei den Arzneimittelpreisen reichen darum allein nicht aus. Im Jahr 2025 erreichten die Nettokosten der ambulanten Arzneimittelversorgung mit 62,6 Milliarden Euro einen neuen Höchststand. Gegenüber 2024 entspricht dies einem Plus von 5,6 Prozent. Die Zahl der verordneten Tagesdosen erhöhte sich dagegen lediglich um rund ein Prozent auf 50,3 Milliarden. Die Zahl der Verordnungen ging leicht zurück. Patentgeschützte Arzneimittel verursachten 2025 Nettokosten von 34,4 Milliarden Euro - rund 55 Prozent der gesamten Nettokosten. Ihr Anteil an den verordneten Tagesdosen lag hingegen nur bei gut sieben Prozent. Allein gegenüber 2024 stiegen die Nettokosten dieses Marktsegments um 7,6 Prozent.

Die Unterschiede zwischen den Therapiegebieten sind erheblich: Krebs- und Immuntherapien verursachten 2025 zusammen etwa 37,6 Prozent der Arzneimittel-Nettokosten, entsprachen aber lediglich knapp drei Prozent der Tagesdosen. Herz-Kreislauf-Arzneimittel bildeten dagegen mit 50,6 Prozent aller Tagesdosen das stärkste Mengengerüst in der Versorgung, verursachten aber mit 14,3 Prozent einen viel geringeren Kostenanteil. Generikawettbewerb, Festbeträge und Rabattverträge entfalten dort eine deutlich stärkere preisbegrenzende Wirkung.

Auch die Halbjahreszahlen des laufenden Jahres 2026 zeigen anhaltenden Finanzierungsdruck: In den ersten sechs Monaten stiegen die Arzneimittelnettokosten gegenüber dem Vorjahreszeitraum um 5,4 Prozent beziehungsweise rund 1,6 Milliarden Euro auf 32,5 Milliarden Euro. Die gesamten Leistungsausgaben der GKV erhöhten sich um 7,4 Prozent, die beitragspflichtigen Einnahmen dagegen nur um 4,1 Prozent. Für das Gesamtjahr 2026 ist mit einem Anstieg der Nettokosten um etwa 5,5 Prozent im Vorjahresvergleich zu rechnen. "Auf Dauer lässt sich eine angemessene und tragfähige Arzneimittelfinanzierung nur mit Maßnahmen realisieren, die jenseits höherer Beiträge und kurzfristiger Abschläge liegen", so der WIdO-Geschäftsführer.

Für das Jahr 2027 prognostiziert das WIdO eine Ausgabensteigerung von 2,2 bis 2,8 Prozent - sofern die kurzfristigen Kostendämpfungsmaßnahmen des GKV-BStabG vollständig wirksam werden. So tritt ab Januar 2027 für große Teile des Patentmarktes zum allgemeinen Herstellerabschlag von sieben Prozent ein zusätzlicher Abschlag von 8,5 Prozent hinzu. Für die davon betroffenen Arzneimittel ergibt sich damit ein Gesamtabschlag von 15,5 Prozent, der die Arzneimittelkosten der GKV um insgesamt etwa 2,5 Milliarden Euro entlasten würde. WIdO-Chef Schröder dazu: "Dieser Abschlag kann den Ausgabenanstieg temporär zwar einbremsen, eine dauerhaft geringere Wachstumsrate gewährleistet er jedoch nicht. Ohne strukturelle Anpassungen werden neue hochpreisige Therapien, zusätzliche Anwendungsgebiete und größere behandelte Patientengruppen die Kosten wie in den letzten Jahrzehnten weiterhin nach oben treiben."

Zusätzliche Unsicherheit über das Einsparpotenzial ist durch die Diskussion um die sogenannte Standortklausel entstanden. Vorgesehen ist, dass sich Hersteller für den Standortrabatt qualifizieren können, wenn sie einen bestimmten Anteil der klinischen Prüfungen in Deutschland durchführen. Darüber hinaus sollen Forschungs-, Entwicklungs- und Produktionsaktivitäten berücksichtigt werden und Unternehmen eine teilweise oder vollständige Freistellung von zusätzlichen Herstellerrabatten ermöglichen. Je weiter diese Ausnahmen reichen, desto geringer fällt die Entlastung für die GKV aus. Die Gegenfinanzierung des Vorhabens ist bisher ungeklärt. "Wer Unternehmen aus industriepolitischen Gründen vom Abschlag befreit, muss auch die Finanzierung klären. Standortförderung als staatliche Aufgabe sollte nicht auf einer offenen Rechnung für die Beitragszahlenden, Arbeitgeber und Rentenversicherung beruhen", betont Schröder.

Aus Sicht der WIdO-Experten bleiben Wettbewerb und Rabattverträge unverzichtbar. Die Einsparungen der Krankenkassen durch Arzneimittel-Rabattverträge erreichten 2025 mit rund 6,8 Milliarden Euro ebenfalls einen neuen Höchststand. Ihr Anteil an den Arzneimittelausgaben liegt jedoch seit Jahren relativ stabil bei rund zehn Prozent. Im biosimilarfähigen Markt hat sich die Zahl der Wirkstoffe seit 2016 vervierfacht. Trotz der erweiterten Wettbewerbsmöglichkeiten sind die Gesamtausgaben dieses Marktsegments weiter gestiegen. Ur-sächlich dafür sind die steigenden Verordnungsmengen und die Zusammensetzung des Marktes. "Damit die aus anderen europäischen Ländern bekannten Preisnachlässe auf diesem stetig wachsenden Markt auch in Deutschland realisiert werden können, müsste der Gesetzgeber allerdings - wie bei den Generika - exklusive Rabattverträge im biosimilarfähigen Markt ermöglichen, bei denen nur ein einziger Hersteller den Zuschlag erhält. Da dies jedoch zunächst bis Juli 2028 ausgesetzt wurde, bleiben diese Einsparpotenziale bis dahin ungenutzt", so Helmut Schröder.

Die US-Politik erhöht zusätzlich den Druck auf die europäische Arzneimittelpreisbildung. Der amerikanische "Most-Favored-Nation"-Ansatz orientiert US-Preise an niedrigeren Preisen vergleichbarer Industriestaaten. Die US-Regierung verbindet damit ausdrücklich die Erwartung steigender Preise in anderen wohlhabenden Ländern. Für Deutschland verschärft dies den Konflikt zwischen internationalen Preisstrategien der Hersteller und der Finanzierbarkeit der Versorgung. "Internationaler Druck macht eine wirksame Preisregulierung noch dringlicher: Was die GKV für ein Arzneimittel bezahlt, muss sich am zusätzlichen Nutzen für die Patientinnen und Patienten orientieren", sagt Schröder.

Hinweis für die Redaktionen:

Das e-Paper "Arzneimittelmarkt 2026: Trends und Perspektiven" des WIdO sowie eine weitere Publikation zur Methodik stehen zum kostenlosen Download unter https://www.wido.de/publikationen-produkte/wido-e-paper/

Pressekontakt:

Wissenschaftliches Institut der AOK

Pressestelle

Peter Willenborg

Telefon: 030 34646 2467

Mobil: 0173 / 8607866

E-Mail: presse@wido.bv.aok.de

Original-Content von: Wissenschaftliches Institut der AOK, übermittelt durch news aktuell

Mitarbeiterverpflegung bei führendem Stahlhersteller

thyssenkrupp Hohenlimburg beauftragt Klüh Catering

Düsseldorf (ots)

Ab sofort übernimmt Klüh Catering die gastronomische Versorgung am Standort der thyssenkrupp Hohenlimburg GmbH in Hagen. Der Neuauftrag umfasst die Verpflegung von rund 925 Mitarbeitenden aus Produktion und Verwaltung.

Zum Leistungsspektrum gehören Frühstück, Mittagessen und Zwischenverpflegung sowie die Bewirtschaftung der Meetingräume. Ergänzt wird das Angebot durch Verpflegungsautomaten, die auch außerhalb der regulären Ausgabezeiten eine Versorgung mit Speisen und Getränken ermöglichen. Für die Zubereitung setzt Klüh Catering unter anderem auf Frontcooking und Merry Chef-Hochgeschwindigkeitsöfen. Über die Klüh-Catering-App können die Tischgäste Speisen vorbestellen und sich über das aktuelle Angebot informieren. Die App bietet zudem Informationen zu Nährwerten, Nachhaltigkeit, Allergenen und Zusatzstoffen sowie zu besonderen Angeboten und kulinarischen Aktionen.

Neben dem Leistungsspektrum überzeugte Klüh im Auswahlprozess auch mit praktischer Erfahrung. Im Rahmen eines Referenzbesuchs an einem von Klüh Catering betreuten Standort eines Automobilzulieferers in Münster konnte sich thyssenkrupp Hohenlimburg ein konkretes Bild von der Umsetzung vor Ort machen. Die Vergabe erfolgte in einem mehrstufigen Verfahren. Zum Auftrag gehört auch die Übernahme der bisherigen Mitarbeitenden im Rahmen des Betriebsübergangs. Damit bleibt das erfahrene Team vor Ort erhalten und kann seine Arbeit unter der neuen Bewirtschaftung fortsetzen.

"Wir freuen uns, die gastronomische Versorgung bei thyssenkrupp Hohenlimburg übernehmen zu können. Gerade bei einem Betriebsübergang ist es wichtig, den Mitarbeitenden und dem Kunden von Anfang an Verlässlichkeit zu geben", sagt Thorsten Greth, Geschäftsführer Klüh Catering. "Unser Ziel ist es, das bestehende Angebot weiterzuentwickeln und gleichzeitig mit unseren Leistungen im täglichen Betrieb zu überzeugen."

thyssenkrupp Hohenlimburg mit Sitz in Hagen gehört zur Stahlsparte von thyssenkrupp und ist Spezialist für warmgewalztes Mittelband mit engsten Toleranzen. Das Unternehmen beliefert unter anderem Kunden aus der Automobil-, Säge- und Landmaschinenindustrie sowie dem Kaltwalzsektor.

Über Klüh:

Mit über 30 Jahren Erfahrung bietet der Branchen-Champion nicht nur Catering für Mitarbeitende, sondern auch für Patient*innen, Senior*innen sowie Reisende und ist im Bereich Care Catering die unangefochtene Nummer 1 der Contract Caterer in Deutschland (Studie gvpraxis 05/2026). Klüh Catering gehört zur Klüh Service Management GmbH, einem international agierenden Multiservice-Anbieter aus Düsseldorf. Im Jahr 1911 gegründet, verfügt das Familienunternehmen über jahrzehntelange Erfahrung im Bereich infrastrukturelle Dienstleistungen. In den Kompetenzbereichen Cleaning, Catering, Clinic Service, Security, Personal Service, Airport Service und Integrated Services werden sowohl Einzeldienstleistungen als auch Multiservice-Konzepte angeboten. Das Unternehmen setzt mit über 46.000 Mitarbeitenden in sechs Ländern mehr als 1,1 Mrd. Euro (2025) um. Weitere Informationen unter www.klueh.de.

Pressekontakt:

Klüh Service Management GmbH | Julian Kerkhoff | T 0211 9068-304 | j.kerkhoff@klueh.de

Original-Content von: Klüh Service Management GmbH, übermittelt durch news aktuell

Bundesinnung der Hörakustiker KdöR

Wenn das Hörgerät mal nicht so will

Mainz (ots)

Bei Schwerhörigkeit ermöglichen individuell angepasste Hörsysteme den Betroffenen soziale Teilhabe. Ein schlechter Sitz des Hörsystems oder störende Nebengeräusche sind aber häufige Gründe, warum Hörgeräte nicht genutzt werden. Was man selbst tun kann, wenn die Hörhilfe nicht so will, wie man selbst und ab wann man einen Hörakustiker aufsuchen sollte, erklärt Eberhard Schmidt, Präsident der Bundesinnung der Hörakustiker (biha).

Kein Klang

"Hörsysteme sorgen nicht nur dafür, dass Töne lauter wahrgenommen werden, sie verschaffen im besten Fall ein optimales Klangerlebnis", erklärt der Hörakustiker-Meister Schmidt. Hört man allerdings über das Hörgerät gar nichts, ist das meist ein Zeichen für leere, verrutschte oder falsch eingesetzte Batterien. Dies kann ganz einfach selbst überprüft und wiederhergestellt werden.

Verringerte Lautstärke

Wird das Gehörte immer leiser, kann der Grund neben ebenfalls schwächer werdenden Batterien auch eine Verstopfung des Passstücks oder des Mikrofons durch Ohrenschmalz (Cerumen) sein. In diesem Fall kann man selbst vorsichtig versuchen, mit einem Bürstchen die Verstopfung im Gerät zu lösen, sicherer wäre aber eine professionelle Reinigung durch den Hörakustiker. Dieser hilft zudem beim Wechsel einzelner Teile, sollten diese defekt sein.

Das Hörsystem pfeift

Unangenehm bis schmerzhaft und auch von außen zu hören: das Hörgerät pfeift. Hier gibt es gleich mehrere mögliche Ursachen. Entweder ist das Hörsystem nicht richtig eingesetzt oder das linke und rechte Teil wurden vertauscht. Auch Ohrpassstück oder Schallschlauch könnten defekt sein. Bei letzterem ist der Hörakustiker der richtige Ansprechpartner für eine fachmännische Reparatur.

Das Hörsystem rutscht aus dem Ohr

Gleitet das Hörgerät aus dem Ohr, kann auch hier Cerumen ein Grund sein oder das Hörgerät sitzt zu locker. Bei einem zu lockeren Sitz kann der Hörakustiker behilflich sein, indem er das Hörgerät wieder individuell anpasst.

"Hörakustiker nehmen in der Gesellschaft einen wichtigen Platz ein. Sie sind flächendeckend über die Bundesrepublik verteilt und bieten eine wohnortnahe, hochqualitative und individuelle Versorgung an. Rund 20.000 Hörakustiker in über 7.500 Fachgeschäften versorgen und begleiten hörbeeinträchtigte Menschen, in der Regel über viele Jahre", erklärt Eberhard Schmidt.

Weitere Informationen rund um die Pflege des Hörsystems (in verschiedenen Sprachen):

https://www.richtig-gut-hoeren.de/downloads/

Mehr Informationen rund ums Hören:

https://www.richtig-gut-hoeren.de

https://www.instagram.com/biha.kdoer/

Pressekontakt:

Original-Content von: Bundesinnung der Hörakustiker KdöR, übermittelt durch news aktuell