TOKYO and TAIPEI, Mar 31, 2026 - (ACN Newswire) - JCB Co., Ltd., the only international payment brand originating from Japan, together with its international operations subsidiary, JCB International Co., Ltd. (collectively, “JCB”), today announced that JCB-branded credit cards issued by Union Bank of Taiwan and Bank SinoPac will, for the first time outside Japan, support JCB Contactless payments via Google Pay, starting from March 31, 2026.

About Google Pay

Google Pay is a contactless mobile payment service available on Android™ smartphones and other compatible devices. By adding credit cards or other payment methods, users can make payments conveniently using their smartphones and other devices. With built-in authentication, transaction encryption, and fraud protection, Google Pay helps keep your money and personal information safe.

> Learn more about Google Pay (URL)

Google Pay requires the Google Wallet app to be downloaded.
Android, Google Pay, and Google Wallet are trademarks of Google LLC.

About JCB Contactless Payments

JCB Contactless is a contactless payment solution that enables cardmembers to complete payments simply by tapping their JCB Contactless-enabled cards, or smartphones with JCB Cards registered, on compatible contactless terminals. JCB Contactless can be used at a wide range of merchants and public transportation systems in Japan and overseas.

For payments above a certain amount, cardmembers may be required to verify their identity by providing a signature or by inserting the card and entering a PIN, depending on the transaction conditions.

> Learn more about JCB Contactless

About Union Bank of Taiwan and Bank SinoPac

Union Bank of Taiwan and Bank SinoPac provide comprehensive financial services in Taiwan, including the issuance of credit and debit cards.
JCB has partnered with Union Bank of Taiwan since 2000 and with Bank SinoPac since 1998 to issue JCB-branded credit cards, and both banks have issued a substantial number of JCB Cards in the Taiwanese market.

About JCB

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 71 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 175 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/

Contact
Anna Takeda
Corporate Communications
Tel: +81-3-5778-8353
Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp

- Revenue: RMB1,622.4 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 40.5%

- Net Profit: RMB106.1 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 74.8%

- Adjusted Net Profit (a non-IFRS measure): RMB135.4 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 111.9%

- In 2025, the Group opened 156 new restaurants, comprising 134 self-operated restaurants and 22 franchised restaurants

- As of December 31, 2025, the Group operated 395 self-operated restaurants and 92 franchised restaurants across 24 cities in Mainland China, 15 restaurants in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and 1 restaurant in Singapore

HONG KONG, Mar 30, 2026 - (ACN Newswire) - Guangzhou Xiao Noodles Catering Management Co., Ltd. (the “Company” or “Xiao Noodles”; Stock Code: 2408.HK) is pleased to announce that the board of directors of the Company announces the unaudited consolidated results of the Company and its subsidiaries (the “Group”) for the year ended 31 December 2025 (the “Reporting Period”).

As the “First-listed Chinese Noodle Restaurant” on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, the Group leveraged its standardized operational system and core product strengths in 2025 to comprehensively drive store expansion and optimize its business portfolio. Through synergies across its business segments, the Group achieved significant revenue growth during a period of profound industry restructuring.

During the Reporting Period, the Group generated revenue of RMB1,622.4 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 40.5%; net profit reached RMB106.1 million, up 74.8% year-on-year; and adjusted net profit (a non-IFRS measure) amounted to RMB135.4 million, up 111.9% year-on-year. In 2025, the Group opened 156 new restaurants, including 134 self-operated restaurants and 22 franchised restaurants. As of December 31, 2025, the Group operated a total of 503 restaurants, comprising 395 self-operated and 92 franchised restaurants across 24 cities in mainland China, 15 restaurants in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and one restaurant in Singapore, marking significant expansion achievements.

Steady Growth in Self-operated Restaurants, Reinforcing the Core Business

The Group’s revenue primarily comes from self-operated restaurants operation and franchised restaurants management. Self-operated restaurants serve as the core revenue pillar, while franchised restaurants emerged as a new growth engine. The synergistic efforts of these two business segments are driving the Group’s continued improvement in profitability.

In terms of self-operated restaurant business, in 2025, the operational quality and efficiency of self-operated restaurants continued to improve, with core operational indicators delivering outstanding performance. The Group’s revenue from self-operated restaurant operations increased from RMB1,001.0 million in 2024 by 44.9% to RMB1,450.2 million in 2025, primarily attributable to the increase in the number of self-operated restaurants. Revenue from self-operated restaurant operations as a percentage of total revenue increased from 86.7% in 2024 to 89.4% in 2025. In addition, revenue from delivery business as a percentage of total revenue increased rapidly from 15.6% for the year ended December 31, 2024 to 23.3% for the year ended December 31, 2025.

During the Reporting Period, the average spending per order at the Group’s self-operated restaurants amounted to RMB29.9, remaining stable, while average daily orders per restaurant increased from 386 orders in 2024 to 406 orders in 2025, demonstrating improved customer attraction.

In terms of same-store operating performance, it remained robust, with same-store sales amounting to RMB745.612 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 1.0› average daily orders per same store increased from 391 orders in 2024 to 427 orders in 2025, and the average spending per order at same stores was RMB29.4, remaining stable.

In terms of franchised restaurants, in 2025, the Group’s franchised restaurant operations delivered excellent performance, with improvements across various core indicators. The Group’s revenue from franchise management increased from RMB152.5 million in 2024 by 12.3% to RMB171.3 million in 2025, primarily attributable to the increase in the number of restaurants.

Steady Progress in Domestic and Overseas Expansion to Actively Explore New Growth Opportunities

While maintaining the steady development of its existing business, the Group has actively expanded its business to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and overseas markets, steadily increasing market penetration and seeking new growth opportunities.

As of December 31, 2025, the Group had successfully opened 15 restaurants in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and one restaurant in Singapore, marking initial achievements in its overseas market layout. During the Reporting Period, the Hong Kong market delivered an outstanding overall operating performance with remarkable results in regional expansion. Going forward, the Group plans to further expand into Southeast Asia to enhance its brand recognition, optimize its market layout, and drive long-term, steady and diversified revenue growth.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead to 2026, driven by a series of national policies to stabilize the economy and promote growth, China’s domestic economy and consumer market are expected to continue their recovery, with residents’ consumption capacity and confidence further strengthened, injecting strong impetus into the development of the Chinese fast food industry.

Against this backdrop, the Group will firmly seize market opportunities, leverage its brand advantage as the "First-listed Chinese Noodle Restaurant", and promote the expansion of its restaurant network, with plans to open 150 to 180 new restaurants in 2026. Meanwhile, the Group will continue to increase investment in brand building to deepen brand recognition and influence, steadily advance its overseas market expansion, consolidate its leading position in the Chinese noodle restaurant segment, and strive to create greater value for shareholders.

About Guangzhou Xiao Noodles Catering Management Co., Ltd.

Guangzhou Xiao Noodles Catering Management Co., Ltd. is a Chinese noodle restaurants operator in China. We operate the Xiao Noodles brand in the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong SAR. Our restaurant network encompassed 395 self-operated restaurants and 92 franchised restaurants across 24 cities in the Chinese Mainland and 15 restaurants in Hong Kong SAR and one restaurant in Singapore as of December 31, 2025. According to Frost & Sullivan, the Company ranked fourth largest Chinese noodle restaurants operator in China in terms of GMV in 2024. Based on the same source, we ranked the thirteenth in the overall Chinese QSR market in terms of GMV in 2024.

The visit with underserved communities from the Penang Cheshire Home and volunteers together for a day of inclusion, connection, and shared moments in nature

TAIPING, Malaysia, Feb 20, 2026 - (ACN Newswire) - In conjunction with ongoing efforts to play their part in creating a more inclusive Malaysia, Spritzer Berhad (‘Spritzer’ or ‘the Company’), Malaysia’s leading natural mineral water brand, hosted residents and volunteers from the Penang Cheshire Home for a day of nature-based activities at the Spritzer EcoPark which is designed to be accessible and welcoming for persons with disabilities.

Spritzer EcoPark is known for being wheelchair-friendly to provide universal access, enabling persons with disabilities to navigate the space comfortably. The community engagement in the lush, natural setting of park reaffirms the Company’s commitment to wellness and meaningful human connection with underserved communities in Malaysia.

Photo 1: Spritzer EcoPark warmly welcomed volunteers and residents from Penang Cheshire Home

“The natural and tranquil environment of the Spritzer EcoPark offers the visitors a refreshing change of pace, allowing participants to explore the course freely together, share light-hearted moments and engage in recreational activities at their own pace. We have seen how natural spaces can foster joy, connection and confidence among individuals who may not often have access to outdoor recreational experiences. As a homegrown Malaysian brand, inclusion and how we serve communities around us is at the heart of our business and everyday decisions.

Welcoming the Penang Cheshire Home residents and volunteers to Spritzer EcoPark reminds us that shared experiences in nature and accessible spaces are powerful ways to nurture a sense of belonging and dignity for often marginalised groups. It was a heartwarming day of enjoying meals together, trying new activities and simply connecting on a human level, in an environment where everyone felt welcome and safe,” said Winnie Chin, Head of Public Relations at Spritzer.

“Visits like this are meaningful to our residents and volunteers, as it gives them the opportunity to step outside their daily routines and enjoy a welcoming environment together. We truly appreciate the accessibility and thoughtful setting at Spritzer EcoPark, which allowed everyone to participate comfortably, engage with each other on a deeper level and create memories together. Initiatives like these play an important role in fostering greater understanding, inclusion, and connection within the community,” said the President of the Penang Cheshire Home, Mr. Koay Say Loke Andrew.

Guided by its commitment to local community well-being, Spritzer believes that nature should be shared and experienced by everyone, regardless of ability, background or circumstance. This initiative is part of the Company’s ongoing outreach efforts to nurture shared moments that embrace diversity in spaces where all Malaysians can come together and enjoy the outdoors. The visit represents more than a community social responsibility (CSR) activity, it demonstrates Spritzer’s belief and commitment to meaningful, people-first community building.

The visit brought together 93 individuals, including residents with disabilities and volunteers, who received a warm reception with a communal lunch, allowing participants time to settle in before moving on to a mini golf activity within the park grounds. Designed to be interactive and enjoyable for all, the session encouraged bonding and active participation among attendees in a safe, comfortable and supportive setting.

Photo 2 and 3: Volunteers and residents, including residents with disabilities, had the chance to take part in activities like mini golf in a safe, accessible, and comfortable environment, while enjoying the lush green scenery

Spritzer acknowledges the longstanding impact of the Penang Cheshire Home, that has provided residential care, rehabilitation and skills development for persons with physical disabilities since 1978. The initiative with the Home is part of Spritzer’s broader commitment to championing inclusivity, well-being, and meaningful relationships. Moving forward, Spritzer EcoPark looks forward to welcoming more community groups and continuing its mission to create shared experiences that celebrate diversity and strengthen social bonds through nature-based activities.

About Spritzer

Established in 1989, Spritzer is a leading Malaysian bottled water brand, sourcing natural mineral water from a protected 430-acre rainforest in Taiping. Naturally filtered through underground rock layers for over 15 years, our water is enriched with essential minerals like Silica, known to support skin, bones, hair, and nails.

Combining smart manufacturing with sustainable practices, Spritzer ensures every bottle meets the highest quality and safety standards. Our packaging is 100% recyclable and made from recycled materials, reflecting our commitment to environmental stewardship and a circular economy.

Tested annually by SIRIM to be free from microplastics, Spritzer offers consumers trusted, natural hydration. Our diverse product range includes Natural Mineral Water, Original and Flavoured Sparkling Water, Distilled Water, and Fruit-Flavoured Beverages—crafted to suit every lifestyle and occasion.

With a clear vision to become a fully circular brand by 2030, Spritzer leads the industry in innovation, quality, and sustainability.

Spritzer — where nature, innovation, and sustainability come together in every bottle.

For more information, visit www.spritzer.com.my

For media inquiries please contact:

Imelia Kyra
Associate Consultant, Narro Communications
imelia@narrocomms.com

Winnie Chin
Head of Public Relations, Spritzer Bhd
winniecgl@spritzer.com.my       

SINGAPORE, Feb 19, 2026 - (ACN Newswire) - Asia’s largest food retailers, manufacturers, restaurant chains, and hospitality groups remain behind international better practice on sustainable and responsible protein sourcing, but progress is accelerating across the region, according to The Asian Protein Buyers 100: An Assessment of Responsible and Sustainable Sourcing released today by Asia Research & Engagement (ARE). 

The APB100 is a benchmark based on investor-backed priorities - assessing how 100 of Asia’s largest listed protein-buying companies — headquartered or operating across Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Mainland China, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam — manage environmental, social, and governance risks embedded in meat, dairy, poultry, and seafood supply chains. Collectively, the companies assessed represent more than USD500 billion in market capitalisation and sit at the choke point of Asia’s protein system, where procurement decisions shape production standards, risk management and food-system outcomes.

The companies assessed include some of Asia’s most recognisable food and retail groups. These include China Mengniu Dairy, Yili Group, Yonghui and Yum China (Mainland China); AEON, Seven & I Holdings, Meiji, Nissin and NH Foods (Japan); CJ CheilJedang, Lotte and E-Mart (South Korea); Charoen Pokphand Foods and Thai Union (Thailand); Jollibee, Century Pacific Food and San Miguel Food & Beverage (Philippines); Vinamilk (Vietnam); and Hindustan Lever, Nestle India, Jubilant, Devyani, DMart, Westlife Foodworld (McDonald’s India) (India), among others.

Scores are improving, but the baseline remains low

Now in its second edition, the benchmark shows clear momentum since 2023 — but also highlights that most companies remain at an early stage of credible implementation.

The average overall score increased from 9% in 2023 to 16% in 2025, with around 80% of companies improving year-on-year. More than half of comparable companies moved up at least one performance tier.

However, no company reached the top two performance tiers, underscoring a persistent gap between sustainability commitments and on-the-ground execution.

A growing group of leaders is emerging

The number of companies in the leading Tier 3 group more than doubled from 10 in 2023 to 26 in 2025, while the lowest-scoring group halved from 44 to 21 companies.

Progress, however, remains uneven and concentrated among a subset of early movers and sustainability themes, while a significant minority of companies continues to disclose little or nothing across several material risk areas.

Climate, labour, and waste are moving fastest

Companies performed strongest on Water & Waste, Labour , and Climate Change, reflecting wider uptake of international disclosure frameworks and growing expectations around supply-chain due diligence.

Climate and labour show the fastest improvement since 2023, driven by emerging regulatory pressure and investor scrutiny, particularly around Scope 3 emissions and labour standards in supply chains.

Governance and protein diversification remain critical gaps

Several material risk areas continue to show weak performance. Governance in relation to protein sustainability, remains the lowest-scoring theme, averaging just 4.5%, with most companies scoring zero. Few have board-approved protein sustainability strategies, capital allocation plans, or accountability mechanisms.

Protein diversification also remains underdeveloped at 7.4%, indicating that most companies have yet to articulate how they will shift product portfolios toward truly low carbon plant proteins at scale.

Disclosures on deforestation and biodiversity, animal welfare, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) also remain thin and rarely quantified. The intersection of climate and deforestation is still not being duly harnessed. Similarly, policies and procurement practices that strengthen animal welfare and enable antibiotic reduction remain a low point, with average animal welfare performance at just 14.1% and only one company aligned with recognised higher-welfare standards or independently certified disclosure.

Why this matters: Asia is the decisive region for global protein systems

Compared with innovative international peers, many of Asia’s protein buyers remain behind on deforestation-free sourcing, antibiotic stewardship, higher-welfare policies and procurement, plant-protein targets and science-based climate transition planning.

However, Asia now represents the most important opportunity for global leadership in responsible protein systems. And with less than five years to implement meaningful change towards various 2030 United Nations and related targets, the vision of a more responsible and sustainable food system is at risk.

“Asia is the world’s fastest-growing protein market, which means what happens here will determine the future of global food systems,” said Kate Blaszak, ARE Director, Protein Transition. “ThisAPB100 shows that disclosure and awareness are improving and aims to trigger a shift from Policy to Practice. With a realm of better practice examples in the report to also assist companies, the next phase must focus on full supply-chain coverage, measurable targets, and annual progress with board-level accountability.”

Download the APB100 Report HERE.

About Asia Research & Engagement (ARE)

ARE brings leading investors into dialogue with Asian-listed companies to address sustainable development challenges and help companies align with investor priorities. With decades of Asia experience, our cross-cultural team understands the region’s unique needs. Our high-quality independent research, robust investor network, and engagement expertise, provide corporate leaders and financial decision makers with insights leading to concrete action.

For media interviews and further enquiries, please contact:
Wani Diwakar
Asia Research & Engagement (ARE)
wani.diwakar@asiareengage.com

ARE report finds JSW Energy and Tata Power best positioned for firm-power era; NTPC’s execution critical as coal economics tighten

SINGAPORE / NEW DELHI, INDIA, Feb 18, 2026 - (ACN Newswire) - India’s power sector is entering a decisive new phase as electricity demand surges, peak loads hit record highs, and the country moves toward its 500GW non-fossil capacity target by 2030 post a record 52GW capacity added in FY26But the next chapter of the transition will not be defined by installed capacity alone.  

A new report by Asia Research & Engagement (ARE), Powering Net Zero: Pathways to Clean Energy for India’s Utility Companies, finds that the market is shifting toward firm, dispatchable and availability-linked power — creating clear divergence among India’s largest listed utilities.  

The analysis identifies:  

• JSW Energy and Tata Power as best placed to monetise the transition, combining contracted renewable growth, storage depth and improving cashflow quality. 
• Adani Green Energy remains the fastest capacity scaler with strong long-term visibility, though storage integration remains at an early stage. 
• NTPC, India’s largest generator, retains unmatched scale and sovereign-backed financing, but its transition outcomes hinge on execution speed and managing coal’s declining role.
• Adani Power remains predominantly thermal, with limited exposure to the structural upside from renewables and storage.  

The report also highlights tightening coal economics. While new ultra-supercritical coal plants clear bids at INR5. 5–6 per kWh, effective delivered costs rise materially once utilisation, fuel volatility and compliance costs are factored in. By comparison, round-the-clock and storage-backed renewable projects are clearing between INR2.7–5.1 per kWh with availability guarantees embedded in contracts.  

“The debate is no longer coal versus renewables,” said Arun Kumar, Strategic Advisor for Power Markets & Technology Innovation at ARE and lead author of the report. “As procurement shifts toward round-the-clock supply, reliability and execution — not just megawatts — will determine competitive advantage.”   

“While this ARE study highlights significant momentum across the sector, it also identifies areas where sharper strategic clarity, improved contracting frameworks, and stronger delivery capabilities will be essential to meeting India’s long-term decarbonisation goals.”   

For deeper analysis and complete assessment, download the complete report HERE. 

About Asia Research & Engagement (ARE)

ARE brings leading investors into dialogue with Asian-listed companies to address sustainable development challenges and help companies align with investor priorities. With decades of Asia experience, our cross-cultural team understands the region’s unique needs. Our high-quality independent research, robust investor network, and engagement expertise, provide corporate leaders and financial decision makers with insights leading to concrete action.

For media interviews and further enquiries, please contact:
Wani Diwakar
Asia Research & Engagement (ARE)
wani.diwakar@asiareengage.com