JINAN, China, March 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — On 8 March local time, during the 25th European Society of Gynecological Oncology (ESGO) Conference (ESGO 2024) in Spain, Qilu Pharmaceutical unveiled the Phase II clinical trial results for iparomlimab and tuvonralimab (QL1706) in an oral presentation. This trial, known as DUBHE-C-206, recruited patients with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer who failed first-line standard treatments. The findings were presented by Professor Jihong Liu from the Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center in China.

Study Background and Design

Cervical cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancies among women and a leading cause of cancer-related death. For those who have failed the first-line standard therapy, the currently available treatment options are inadequate. The objective response rate (ORR) for pembrolizumab was 12.2%, with an ORR of 0% in the PD-L1-negative population^[1]. Additionally, the median progression-free survival (PFS) and median overall survival (OS) were reported to be 2.1 months and 9.4 months, respectively. Similarly, cemiplimab showed an ORR of 16.4%, with a median PFS of 2.8 months and a median OS of 12.0 months^[2]. This highlights the unmet need for effective and safe clinical treatments for patients with cervical cancer who failed first-line therapy. By targeting and inhibiting two immune checkpoint pathways (anti-PD-1 IgG4 and anti-CTLA-4 IgG1), Qilu Pharmaceutical’s proprietary drug QL1706 has shown a favorable safety profile and preliminary efficacy in patients with cervical cancer in early studies. The DUBHE-C-206 study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of QL1706 in patients with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer.

This study was a multi-center, single-arm, open-label phase II clinical trial which enrolled patients with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer who failed first-line platinum-based chemotherapy (with or without bevacizumab) and without prior immunotherapy. Participants received QL1706 at a dose of 5.0 mg/kg once every three weeks (Q3W). The primary endpoint of the trial was the ORR as assessed by an Independent Evaluation Committee (IRC). Secondary endpoints included the ORR as evaluated by investigators, duration of response (DoR) and disease control rate (DCR) as assessed by both IRC and investigators, PFS, 6-month and 12-month PFS rates, OS, 12-month OS rate, as well as safety, pharmacokinetics, and immunogenicity.

Study Results

As of April 28, 2023, the study had enrolled 148 patients with a median age of 53.0 years, including 132 (89.2%) diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma. Of these participants, 109 (73.6%) had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (ECOG PS) score of 1. Additionally, 105 (70.9%) patients had a combined positive score (CPS) of ≥1, while 43 (29.1%) had a CPS of <1. Notably, 39.9% of the participants had been treated with bevacizumab, and 37.2% had received second-line and subsequent therapy. The median follow-up duration of the study was 11.0 months.

In terms of efficacy, the ORR as assessed by IRC was 33.8% (95% CI: 26.2%-42.0%), and the DCR reached 64.9% (95% CI: 56.6%-72.5%). The median PFS was 5.4 months (95% CI: 3.9-6.9), with 6-month and 12-month PFS rates of 45.0% and 16.1%, respectively. The median OS had not been reached, with 6-month and 12-month OS rates standing at 83.9% and 65.4%, respectively. In subgroup analyses, the ORR for patients with a CPS of ≥1 was 37.1%, compared to 25.6% for those with a CPS of <1. Furthermore, the ORR for patients who had previously received bevacizumab was 28.8%, whereas it was 37.1% for those who had not undergone such treatment.

Regarding safety, among all the participants, 104 (70.3%) experienced treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs), with the most common being hypothyroidism (20.9%) and hyperthyroidism (18.9%). TRAEs of grade 3 or higher were observed in 36 individuals (24.3%), with anemia (4.1%), increased gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) (2.7%), and increased lipase level (2.7%) being the most frequently reported. Three patients (2.0%) discontinued treatment due to TRAEs. There were no reported deaths resulting from TRAEs. In the study, 65 participants (43.9%) experienced immune-related adverse events (irAEs), with grade 3 or higher irAEs reported in 21 (14.2%).

In conclusion, QL1706 has shown promising efficacy and acceptable safety profile in patients with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer who failed first-line standard therapy, regardless of their PD-L1 expression. This positions QL1706 as a more effective and safer therapeutic option for patients with cervical cancer whose disease progressed after first-line standard therapy. A phase III clinical trial is currently in progress, evaluating the use of QL1706 in combination with chemotherapy (with or without bevacizumab) as a first-line treatment option.

Prof. Liu from the Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center commented, “The findings from the DUBHE-C-206 study offer new evidence to support the use of dual immunotherapy in the second- and late-line treatment of recurrent or metastatic advanced cervical cancer (ACC). They also affirm QL1706’s potential as a promising new treatment option for ACC patients. The study’s results have shown the efficacy benefits of QL1706 across the whole ACC patient population while demonstrating its considerable safety advantages. These findings suggest that QL1706 has the potential to significantly enhance the quality of life for patients and provide superior clinical benefits. We eagerly anticipate the outcomes of the Phase 3 trial for QL1706, which is now in progress to assess the efficacy and safety of QL1706 in combination with chemotherapy, with or without bevacizumab, as a first-line treatment for recurrent or metastatic ACC.”

Professor Hanmei Lou from Zhejiang Cancer Hospital stated, “For ACC patients who have failed first-line therapy, the available treatment options are still limited and exhibit unsatisfactory efficacy, highlighting substantial unmet clinical needs. The efficacy and safety data from the DUBHE-C-206 study are promising. Compared with the previously reported combination therapy involving PD-1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors, QL1706 has demonstrated reduced toxicity and offers notable advantages in both safety and efficacy. This further supports the use of dual immunotherapy for the treatment of recurrent or metastatic ACC. Consequently, the data from the DUBHE-C-206 study holds significant clinical value and implications.”

Ms Xiaoyan Kang, Executive Deputy General Manager of Qilu Pharmaceutical’s Clinical Research & Development Center and Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for Oncology, explained, “QL1706 represents the world’s first dual-functional MabPair antibody targeting both PD-1 and CTLA-4 pathways. Data from several clinical studies of this novel drug have been released. The inclusion of the latest clinical trial results in the oral presentation at the ESGO conference underscores the international academic community’s interest in and recognition of the clinical potential of this novel product. Currently, multiple Phase III clinical trials involving QL1706 are in progress, covering various disease indications. Going forward, we plan to further accelerate the clinical development of QL1706 to ensure that this treatment can reach and benefit patients as soon as possible.”

References:

1. J Clin Oncol. 2019;37(17):1470-1478.
2. N Engl J Med. 2022;386(6):544-555.

Source: Qilu Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

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• Recently announced agreement to divest assets and business operations in China marks an important milestone for the Company; the transaction is expected to close by the end of March 2024
• Uliledlimab (CD73 antibody) on track to file an IND in combination with chemotherapy and checkpoint inhibitors for patients with newly diagnosed NSCLC in 1H 2024
• First patient dosed in an ongoing, triplet combination, dose escalation study of givastomig (CLDN18.2×4-1BB bispecific antibody) in 1Q 2024
• RMB2.3 billion (US$321.8 million) in cash and cash equivalents, and short-term investments as of December 31, 2023

ROCKVILLE, Md., March 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — I-Mab (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: IMAB), a U.S.-based, global biotech company, exclusively focused on the development and potential commercialization of highly differentiated immunotherapies for the treatment of cancer, today announced financial results for the full year ended December 31, 2023, and highlighted recent business updates.

“2023 was a transitional year for I-Mab and we were pleased to report encouraging clinical results in our two lead global assets in oncology, uliledlimab and givastomig. As we prepare for the closing of the strategic divestiture, we look forward to providing investors with a road map to value creation and believe that our differentiated clinical assets, uliledlimab, givastomig, and ragistomig will achieve critical milestones and trial initiations this year,” said Raj Kannan, Director and Chief Executive Officer of I-Mab.

Pipeline Overview and Upcoming Milestones:

Uliledlimab: Phase 2, with a focus on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

Uliledlimab is designed to target CD73 and promote stronger activation of the patient’s immune system against cancer cells. Uliledlimab is potentially differentiated from other products in development due to its non-competitive binding with adenosine monophosphate and the potential for complete inhibition of CD73’s immune dampening function. Encouraging results from a Phase 2 study of uliledlimab in combination with toripalimab, presented at the American Society for Clinical Oncology (ASCO 2023) in patients with advanced NSCLC, provided compelling support for further development of uliledlimab. In particular, the subset of patients with both high CD73 expression and PD-L1 TPS>1% showed an impressive 63% overall response rate. Additionally, enrollment of patients with treatment resistant ovarian cancer has been completed, and ongoing efforts will be streamlined to focus on expediting NSCLC development.

• Upon the receipt of the investigational new drug (IND) approval, the Company plans to initiate the triplet study for uliledlimab in combination with chemotherapy and checkpoint inhibitors in newly diagnosed patients with advanced NSCLC in the second half of 2024.

Givastomig (Claudin 18.2 x 4-1BB bispecific antibody): Phase 1b, with a focus on gastric cancer and esophageal adenocarcinoma  

Givastomig was designed as a bispecific antibody to target Claudin 18.2-positive tumor cells, with conditional activation of pro-immune 4-1BB in the tumor microenvironment. Phase 1 monotherapy data presented at the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO 2023) showed encouraging objective responses in patients with gastric cancer and esophageal adenocarcinoma whose tumors progressed or recurred after prior standard treatments, including those with low levels of Claudin 18.2 expression. This program is being jointly developed with ABL Bio. I-Mab owns 50% of the global rights of givastomig.  

• The enrollment of patients from the U.S. and China with newly diagnosed (frontline treatment) gastric and esophageal cancer in combination with chemotherapy and a checkpoint inhibitor began in the first quarter of 2024.

Ragistomig (PD-L1 x 4-1BB bispecific antibody): Phase 1 dose escalation, with a focus on solid tumors

Ragistomig was designed as a bispecific antibody to address PD-L1 resistant tumors, differentiated by the conditional activation of 4-1BB’s pro-immune stimulation when it binds to its PD-L1 target. Early observations reported by our development partner, ABL Bio, showed promising objective responses in patients with various solid tumors whose tumors progressed or recurred after prior standard treatments, including in patients with relapsed or refractory cancer after prior PD-L1 inhibitors. These early signs of efficacy are encouraging, and enrollment in the Phase 1 study continues. This program is being jointly developed with ABL Bio. I-Mab owns 50% of the global rights of ragistomig (TJ-L14B/ABL503).

• Top-line Phase 1 dose escalation and dose expansion results are expected to be presented at a major medical conference in the first half of 2024.

Impact of Strategic Transaction on Pipeline

The agreement to divest assets and business operations in China, previously announced in a press release on February 7, 2024, is expected to be completed by the end of March 2024. Upon the closing of the transaction, the Greater China rights for assets including eftansomatropin alfa, felzartamab, uliledlimab, and givastomig will be transferred to I-Mab Biopharma (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd., an unconsolidated affiliate (the “Hangzhou Company“). I-Mab will no longer bear future development costs of these divested assets in China and may receive an aggregate consideration of the RMB equivalent of up to US$80 million, contingent on the Hangzhou Company group’s achievement of certain future regulatory and sales-based milestone events relating to these divested assets in China. The transaction, if closed, will also extinguish existing repurchase obligations owed by a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company in the amount of approximately US$183 million.

As a result of the closing of the transaction, the Company will cease consolidation of the divested entities, assets, and businesses as well as their corresponding financial results. The Company’s financial condition and results of operations will be materially affected and the Company’s historical results will not be indicative of future financial condition or results of operations.

Full-Year 2023 Financial Results

Cash Position

As of December 31, 2023, the Company had cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments of RMB2.3 billion (US$321.8 million), compared with RMB3.5 billion as of December 31, 2022.

Share Buyback

In August 2023, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized a new share repurchase program under which the Company may repurchase up to US$40 million of American Depository Shares (“ADSs”), each ten ADSs representing 23 ordinary shares of the Company, or ordinary shares in aggregate over a 12-month period. During the period ended December 31, 2023, the Company repurchased US$8.6 million of its ADSs, equating to 4,633,386 ADSs or 10,656,794 ordinary shares. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had issued and outstanding ordinary shares of 185,613,662, representing the equivalent of 80,701,592 ADSs assuming the conversion of all ordinary shares into ADSs.

Net Revenues

Total net revenues for the full year of 2023 were RMB27.6 million (US$3.9 million), compared with RMB-221.6 million (US$-32.1 million) for the full year of 2022. Total net revenues in 2023 consisted of revenues recognized in connection with the strategic collaboration with AbbVie Inc. (AbbVie) and revenues generated from the supply of investigational products to AbbVie and Human Immunology Biosciences, Inc. The negative figure for net revenue in 2022 was primarily due to a one-time, non-cash accounting treatment of US$-48.0 million (equivalent to RMB-314.2 million) recorded in the second half of 2022 following the amendment to the original license and collaboration agreement with AbbVie in August 2022. This amendment led to a reduced probability of achieving a key milestone that was included in the consideration of revenue recognition in prior years.

Research & Development Expenses

Research and development expenses for the full year of 2023 were RMB810.6 million (US$114.2 million), compared with RMB904.9 million (US$131.2 million) for the full year of 2022. The decrease was primarily due to reduced payroll expenses related to headcount optimization as a result of asset prioritization and reduced share-based compensation expenses. Share-based compensation expense was RMB66.8 million (US$9.4 million) for the full year of 2023, compared with RMB117.9 million (US$17.1 million) for the full year of 2022.

Administrative Expenses

Administrative expenses for the full year of 2023 were RMB453.0 million (US$63.8 million), compared with RMB815.8 million (US$118.3 million) for the full year of 2022. The decrease was primarily due to reduced payroll expenses related to decreased headcount as a result of resource optimization and reduced share-based compensation expenses for management personnel, reduced expenses for professional services, and reduced legal expenses in relation to the disputes with Tracon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. of RMB95.5 million (US$13.5 million). Share-based compensation expense was RMB126.2 million (US$17.8 million) for the full year of 2023, compared with RMB239.3 million (US$34.7 million) for the full year of 2022.

Other Expenses, Net

Net other expenses for the full year of 2023 were RMB38.1 million (US$5.4 million), compared with RMB126.6 million (US$18.4 million) for the full year of 2022. The change was primarily driven by unrealized exchange rate losses due to the significant fluctuation in the exchange rate of the Renminbi against the U.S. dollar in 2022.

Equity in Loss of Affiliates

Equity in loss of affiliates for the full year of 2023 was RMB80.0 million (US$11.3 million), compared with RMB437.5 million (US$63.4 million) for the full year of 2022. The loss was mainly recognized in relation to the operating loss of the Company’s investee, I-Mab Biopharma (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd.

Impairment of Goodwill

For the full year of 2023, the Company recognized an impairment of goodwill of RMB162.6 million (US$22.9 million). The goodwill impairment resulted from the Company’s annual impairment analysis, and reflects the continued disconnect between I-Mab’s anticipated future performance and present uncertainty reflected in its market valuation.

Net Loss

Net loss for the full year of 2023 was RMB1,465.7 million (US$206.4 million), compared with RMB2,507.3 million (US$363.5 million) for the year 2022. Net loss per share attributable to ordinary shareholders for the full year of 2023 was RMB7.19 (US$1.01), compared with RMB13.21 (US$1.92) for the full year of 2022. Net loss per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders for the full year of 2023 was RMB16.54 (US$2.33), compared with RMB30.38 (US$4.41) for the full year of 2022.

Non-GAAP Net Loss

Non-GAAP adjusted net loss, which excludes share-based compensation expenses and impairment of goodwill, for the full year of 2023 was RMB1,105.3 million (US$155.7 million), compared with RMB2,136.3 million (US$309.7 million) for the full year of 2022. Non-GAAP adjusted net loss per share attributable to ordinary shareholders for the full year of 2023 was RMB5.42 (US$0.76), compared with RMB11.26 (US$1.63) for the full year of 2022. Non-GAAP adjusted net loss per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders for the full year of 2023 was RMB12.47 (US$1.76), compared with RMB25.90 (US$3.75) for the full year of 2022.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

To supplement its consolidated financial statements, which are presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP, the Company uses adjusted net income (loss) as a non-GAAP financial measure. Adjusted net income (loss) represents net income (loss) before share-based compensation and impairment of goodwill. The Company’s management believes that adjusted net income (loss) facilitates understanding of operating results and provides management with a better capability to plan and forecast future periods. For more information on the non-GAAP financial measures, please see the table captioned “Reconciliation of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results” set forth at the end of this press release.

Non-GAAP information is not prepared in accordance with GAAP and may be different from non-GAAP methods of accounting and reporting used by other companies. The presentation of this additional information should not be considered a substitute for GAAP results. A limitation of using adjusted net income (loss) is that adjusted net income (loss) excludes share-based compensation expense and impairment of goodwill that has been and may continue to be incurred in the future.

Exchange Rate Information

This announcement contains translations of certain Renminbi amounts into U.S. dollars at a specified rate solely for the convenience of the reader. Unless otherwise noted, all translations from Renminbi to U.S. dollars of the financial results for the year of 2023 are made at a rate of RMB7.0999 to US$1.00, the rate in effect as of December 29, 2023, published by the Federal Reserve Board. All translations from Renminbi to U.S. dollars of the financial results for the year of 2022 are made at a rate of RMB6.8972 to US$1.00, the rate in effect as of December 30, 2022 published by the Federal Reserve Board.

Notes:

(1) Includes share-based compensation expense of RMB117,876 thousand (US$17,090 thousand) and RMB66,758 thousand (US$9,403 thousand) for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively.

(2) Includes share-based compensation expense of RMB239,272 thousand (US$34,691 thousand) and RMB126,244 thousand (US$17,781 thousand) for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively.

(3) Includes share-based compensation expense of RMB13,852 (US$2,008 thousand) and RMB4,815 thousand (US$678 thousand) for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively.

(4) Each ten ADSs represents twenty-three ordinary shares.

About I-Mab

I-Mab (NASDAQ: IMAB) is a U.S.-based, global biotech company, exclusively focused on the development and potential commercialization of highly differentiated immunotherapies for the treatment of cancer. I-Mab has established operations in the U.S. in Rockville, Maryland, and in San Diego, California. For more information, please visit https://www.i-mabbiopharma.com and follow us on LinkedIn, X, and WeChat.

I-Mab Forward Looking Statements

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will”, “expects”, “believes”, “designed to”, “anticipates”, “future”, “intends”, “plans”, “potential”, “estimates”, “confident”, and similar terms or the negative thereof. I-Mab may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about I-Mab’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, without limitation, statements regarding: the timing of the completion of the expected divestiture of the Company’s assets and business operations in China and its anticipated impact on the Company (including the transfer of Greater China rights for assets, including eftansomatropin alfa, felzartamab, uliledlimab, and givastomig to the Hangzhou Company, the expected consideration to be received by I-Mab and the expected extinguishment of an existing repurchase obligation of US$183 million); the Company’s expectations regarding providing a road map to value creation and its belief that its clinical oncology programs will achieve critical milestones and trial initiations this year; the Company’s pipeline overview and upcoming anticipated milestones, including with respect to uliledlimab, givastomig, and ragistomig, and the intended impact and the Company’s plans with respect thereto. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in these forward-looking statements, including but not limited to the following: I-Mab’s ability to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of its drug candidates; the clinical results for its drug candidates, which may or may not support further development or New Drug Application/Biologics License Application (NDA/BLA) approval; the content and timing of decisions made by the relevant regulatory authorities regarding regulatory approval of I-Mab’s drug candidates; I-Mab’s ability to achieve commercial success for its drug candidates, if approved; I-Mab’s ability to obtain and maintain protection of intellectual property for its technology and drugs; I-Mab’s reliance on third parties to conduct drug development, manufacturing and other services; and I-Mab’s limited operating history and I-Mab’s ability to obtain additional funding for operations and to complete the development and commercialization of its drug candidates, as well as those risks more fully discussed in the “Risk Factors” section in I-Mab’s most recent annual report on Form 20-F, as well as discussions of potential risks, uncertainties, and other important factors in I-Mab’s subsequent filings with the SEC. All forward-looking statements are based on information currently available to I-Mab. I-Mab undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

For more information, please contact:

I-Mab Contacts

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SHANGHAI, March 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — D3 Bio, an emerging global biotechnology company that focuses on discovery, development, and registration of innovative cancer drugs, welcomes Antoine Yver, MD. ,MSc. as the new independent board member, effective March 4, 2024.

Dr. Yver has 34 years of experience in the global pharmaceutical industry with a focus on cancer drug discovery and development. He previously worked as Executive Vice-President and Global Head, R&D Oncology at Daiichi Sankyo and Senior Vice-President, GMed Head Oncology and GMD China lead at AstraZeneca. Dr. Yver’s leadership led to the successful development and approval of 15 drugs including break-through medicines of osimertinib, olaparib and fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan.

Dr. Yver will bring invaluable insights and strategic vision to our board and significantly contribute to D3 Bio’s mission of advancing breakthroughs in cancer treatment and transforming patient lives across the globe.

Dr. Yver, the new board member of D3 Bio, said “I am deeply honored to join (D3 Bio) and humbled by the opportunity to substantially contribute to making the world better by delivering your important science for the advancement of care of patients with cancer around the world.”

Dr. Yver received MD With Honors, Paris Saclay University in 1983 and Master Sciences in Immunology with Honors, Paris VI, France in 1988, and became a French board-certified Pediatrician in 1987. He currently serves as Chaiman of Development at Centessa Pharmaceuticals and as independent director on the board of Sanofi SA. Dr. Yver is also Founder of ‘The Blue Bears Special Meals’, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing meaningful employment to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Dr. George Chen, Chairman and CEO at D3 Bio, said “I had the privilege of working with Dr. Yver at Astra Zeneca, and today I am honored to extend a warm welcome to Dr. Yver, our new independent board member. Dr. Yver has been a special advisor to D3 Bio since March 2023, provided strategic and scientific advice, and made significant contributions to D3 Bio. In his new role, I am confident Dr. Yver, with his proven track record, expertise in drug development and deal making, and his substantial direct global leadership experience, will play a pivotal role in steering D3 Bio towards growing into an established global biotech company”.

About D3 Bio

D3 Bio is a globally orientated, clinical stage biotechnology company that focuses on the discovery, development, and registration of new medicines in oncology and immunology. At D3 Bio, we fully leverage our clinical insight and biomarker strategy to guide our discovery effort and compound development, aiming to create novel and clinically meaningful new therapies for patients in need. 

D3 Bio is funded by globally renowned investors, including Boyu Capital, Matrix Partners China, Sequoia Capital China, Temasek, and WuXi AppTec’s Corporate Venture Fund.

Media Contact:

D3 Bio
Rui Liu
Head, Corporate Affairs
bd@d3bio.com

Goby Global LLC
Bob Ai
bai@gobyglobal.com

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Source: FJ SAFESPACE PTE. LTD.

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On the occasion of this launching, four Asian celebrities have been appointed as new international ambassadors for the Madrid brand

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, March 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — MADRID TURISMO by IFEMA Madrid has announced the launch of its global creative campaign “Only in Madrid” in Malaysia. The campaign aims to promote the city and the greater region of Madrid to a global audience establishing it as a must-visit travel destination.

It has also added influencer Ayana Moon, entrepreneurs and actors Raffi & Nagita, and actor Yang Dong-Geun as the newest ambassadors of the Madrid brand, in their second ever ambassador appointments. The initiative is part of the Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) and Influencer Marketing Campaign that is being carried out to promote Madrid in Asia.

MADRID TURISMO by IFEMA MADRID is a joint project of the Regional Government of Madrid, Madrid City Council and IFEMA Madrid to promote Madrid as a tourist destination in international outbound tourism markets, as well as to strengthen the Madrid brand internationally.

The “Only in Madrid” campaign highlights the distinctive mix of art, culture, gastronomy, shopping, vibrancy, and unique lifestyle that has propelled Madrid to become a must-visit city in Europe.

Madrid is home to the largest Royal Palace in the world and other beautiful landmarks such as Plaza Mayor, El Prado Museum and Real Madrid’s Bernabeu Stadium. Each neighbourhood of Madrid is distinct and unique, from funky-alternative Malasaña to chic and high-end Salamanca where visitors can indulge in the glamorous world of shopping, dining and Flamenco.

Beyond the glitz and bustle of the Spanish capital, is the lesser-known but no less fascinating side of Greater Madrid. Just a short drive away is lush countryside, steeped in history and culture, where quaint mediaeval towns, picture-perfect wineries and scenic parks are a welcome change from city life.

The area of Greater Madrid is also home to the UNESCO heritage triangle of Alcalá de Henares, San Lorenzo de El Escorial and Aranjuez, located less than an hour’s drive from the city centre. And within only 30 minutes from the city is the equally stunning rural beauty of Patones, Chinchón and the vineyards of San Martín de Valdeiglesias.

Madrid will have more than 2,700 luxury hotel rooms by the end of 2023, up 50% from a decade ago according to a report by JLL. The city has 33 new hotels in the pipeline, half of them in the upscale segment. Madrid’s hotel investment came to a record 802 million euros in 2022.

Most recently, The Four Seasons Hotel opened near the central Puerta del Sol boasting a 1,500 square metre complex that includes a shopping mall for luxury brands including Dior and Hermes and the nearby Ritz has recently been upgraded to the luxury Mandarin Oriental Ritz brand.

Home to the world’s most luxe labels and fast fashion – from Loewe, Balenciaga and Manolo Blahnik to Zara and Mango – these foundations and their history make Madrid one of the most influential international fashion capitals in the world. Even for those who prefer to veer away from the glitz of high fashion, shoppers can still expect to find locally produced garments and articles in Madrid’s atelier routes of extraordinary quality that are relatively affordable compared to international brands.

The famous atelier routes consist of small and medium-sized firms that work in line with the values of ‘slow fashion’, and that focus on making timeless designs, using local labour, exquisite tailoring, and quality materials and fabrics. In fact, Spain is one of the few European countries that preserves the craft of artisanal fabric, celebrating generations of craftsmen and is the quintessential destination to discover, enjoy and consume Spanish fashion.

As much as Madrid is synonymous with fashion, gastronomy and cuisine permeates all aspects of culture and life. Be it traditional Sunday lunch with family, tapas crawls with friends, or hours spent at the markets picking up the freshest local produce, Madrid’s culture revolves heavily around food.

Only in Madrid can you eat at the world’s oldest restaurant, Restaurant Botin, a historic gem that dates back to 1725  serving some of the best examples of traditional cuisine that Marid has to offer.

The MICHELIN Guide Spain recently announced the Michelin-star awarded restaurants in Madrid for 2024. The foodie paradise now boasts 28 restaurants with 36 stars, confidently climbing the Michelin ranks and settling as one of the world’s top gastronomic destinations.

MADRID TURISMO by IFEMA MADRID is an initiative promoted by the Regional Government of Madrid, Madrid City Council and IFEMA MADRID to position Madrid as one of the world’s leading tourist destinations in long-haul outbound markets. Its objective is to position Madrid as a major leisure destination, the world’s largest cultural destination and a benchmark capital in luxury and high-impact tourism, consolidating lifestyle as a major differentiating aspect of Madrid with respect to its competing destinations.

During the first year of the campaign launch, promotional actions have been implemented in 16 countries, including Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, China, Korea and Japan. The project includes; major B2B and B2C digital marketing campaigns, campaign sites in 11 languages, the development of branded content pieces in major general and economic media, co-marketing actions with paid media and TTOOs, key opinion leaders (KOLs) and influencer marketing campaigns, presentations at the long-haul inbound markets, and the production and generation of content for the #onlyinmadrid campaign – all aiming to fortify Madrid’s presence as a top tourism destination for Asian travellers.

Within this framework, MADRID TURISMO by IFEMA MADRID has appointed four Asian celebrities of particular relevance in Indonesia, Malaysia and Korea, as new International Ambassadors of the Madrid brand. These celebrities have been invited to discover the cultural, social, gastronomic, historical and leisure richness of the Madrid Region.

IFEMA Madrid´s Managing Director, Juan Arrizabalaga, and the Director of Madrid Turismo by IFEMA Madrid, Yolanda Perdomo, presented these appointments to the new international ambassadors, together with what has become the symbol of these awards, the Spanish capes designed by the firm OTEYZA. They were accompanied by Lara Benito – known as Lara in Korea – a Singer, model and actress of Madrid origin, famous in South Korea for her affluent television appearances.

South Korean influencer Ayana Moon, current brand ambassador for Dyson and Wardah Cosmetic; Indonesian entrepreneurs, musicians and actors Raffi & Nagita (Rans), brand ambassadors for Grab, Alfamart and Si Cepat; and the South Korean actor, rapper and dancer Yang Dong-Geun, star of the second season of the popular series ‘The Squid Game’, have been appointed Ambassadors of Madrid Turismo, which will help to promote the Madrid brand in their areas of influence.

This will also help to foster it as one of Europe’s preferred tourist destinations, highlighting its lifestyle, gastronomy, cultural and leisure offerings, as well as its rich heritage. The new Ambassadors were able to learn about these and other aspects of the region throughout their visit to Madrid, during which they visited emblematic places and important landmarks in the capital. They were also able to attend various shows of the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid catwalk.

Relevant celebrities with a big impact in Asia.

Ayana Moon is the current brand ambassador for Dyson and Wardah Cosmetic. A native of South Korea, but a resident of Malaysia, Ayana Moon passionately promotes cultural understanding through her social media profiles and shares her faith through her content. She has over 1.7 million followers on Instagram.

Raffi Ahmad & Nagita Slavina are a couple of Indonesian entrepreneurs, musicians and actors with 71 million followers on TikTok, 75 million followers on Instagram and 25.4 million followers on their YouTube channel. They have won awards for their work as presenters in Asia including SCTV Awards 2021 and 2022, and RCTI+ Indonesian Digital Awards. In addition, they received the World Cultural International Forum Award 2023 for their great success in social media in Asia.

Yang Dong-Geun is a popular South Korean actor and artist, famous for playing the lead role in the second season of the hit Netflix series ‘The Squid Game’. He has also appeared in other TV shows such as ‘Moving’ and ‘Cheer Up’.

Fostering air connectivity with Asia.

MADRID TURISMO by IFEMA MADRID has signed an agreement with Iberia framed in the new route between Madrid and Doha to connect Asia and Spain, which in turn offers connectivity from 44 destinations in Asia, 29 in Africa and 26 in the Middle East to the Spanish capital. This new route is estimated to generate an economic impact for the Madrid region of €55 million in the first year.

In July, last year, Iberia joined the world’s largest airline joint business created by British Airways and Qatar Airways and, thanks to this alliance, in December, it operated its inaugural flight to the Qatari capital city. This flight is added to the two daily flights offered by Qatar Airways. The combined schedule offers morning, afternoon, and evening departures for travellers between the two capital cities, and hundreds of connections in each hub.

The Iberia´s aircraft operating this route is the Airbus A330-200, a twin-engine which is 15% more efficient, with a capacity for 288 passengers, 19 in Business Class and 269 in Economy, which means that this year, the Spanish airline will offer more than 210,000 seats between both capitals.

About MADRID TURISMO by IFEMA MADRID

MADRID TURISMO by IFEMA MADRID has a total budget of 36 million euros to invest in promotional actions in the long-haul inbound markets until December 2024. The main goal of this initiative is to position Madrid as an outstanding and first-class holiday destination, the largest cultural destination in the world, consolidating the “madrileño” lifestyle as a major differentiating aspect of Madrid vs. its competing destinations.

More information on MADRID TURISMO by IFEMA MADRID | IFEMA MADRID

For more information on Madrid and things to see, do and experience please visit:
https://www.turismomadrid.es/en/
https://www.esmadrid.com/en

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SHENZHEN, China, March 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Aligned with the theme “Inspire Inclusion” for International Women’s Day 2024, AMIRO, a premier provider of beauty and skincare tech solutions, reinforces its dedication to making beauty accessible and promoting women’s empowerment with the introduction of its #AmiroInspire initiative.

As part of this initiative, AMIRO has joined forces with four inspiring individuals who, from their wheelchairs, are enhancing the meaning of beauty. Through this “Beauty Without Barriers” program, their collective mission is to break down barriers in the pursuit of beauty and inspire everyone to express their unique beauty. Together, they are conveying a powerful message: beauty is a universal pursuit.

Among them, Stefanie Schaffer, whose life transformed after a boating accident at 22, resulting in the loss of her lower limbs and a spinal injury. Overcoming adversity, Stefanie now shines as a model, content creator, and author, seizing life’s opportunities with vigor. She recounts her early experiences of isolation stemming from her disability and a lack of community ties, which led to profound loneliness. Her turning point came when she discovered an online group of individuals with similar disabilities.

“When l think of inspire inclusion, I think of the many women that l am lucky to know in this disability community that not only break barriers but help others to do the same, whether it’s through creating content on social media, modeling for brands, participating in adaptive sports, working in a male dominated field or something else, disabled women are showing up and inspiring inclusion,” said Stefanie.

Stefanie believes that lack of access is what can literally prevent the disabled group from being included. This is a challenge faced by almost every person with disabilities, and it’s the reason AMIRO persists in its mission and strive to bring a more convenient beauty experience to every user, recognizing the importance of accessibility and inclusivity.

This program is a testament to AMIRO’s commitment to its mission and has been making strides for quite some time. After several months of using the AMIRO R3 Turbo Facial RF Skin Tightening Device, Stefanie has discovered the pleasure of having access to premium facial treatments right in the comfort of her home. She appreciates the convenience and liberation from the hassles of scheduling and accessibility concerns.

As a home beauty device brand, AMIRO’s vision is to make beauty accessible for everyone.  In the journey to realize this vision, AMIRO is not alone. On this year’s International Women’s Day, AMIRO partnered with Equality Now, a non-governmental organization dedicated to advocating for the protection and promotion of women’s and girls’ human rights. Together, they aim to empower individuals to live fearlessly, freely, and confidently, fostering a more equal and inclusive world for women.

Moreover, AMIRO has partnered with the renowned Cassandra Bankson, a skincare expert and medical aesthetician boasting over 10 years of experience. Drawing from personal struggles, Cassandra revealed her past obsession with appearance over talent. However, overcoming acne and aiding women with their insecurities taught her the profound depth of beauty beyond the skin.

Echoing Cassandra’s sentiments, AMIRO provides technology-driven beauty solutions that supports women to embrace their skin in its natural state. Rather than limiting its efforts to a single day of celebration, AMIRO maintains a steadfast commitment to enhancing the simplicity and efficacy of at-home skincare routines. Looking ahead, the brand is dedicated to providing continuous support to help individuals from all backgrounds reach their beauty aspirations.

About AMIRO

AMIRO, a beauty and skincare technology brand founded in 2015, has been delivering joy and harmony through its technologically advanced home beauty and personal care electronic products. With over 38 international design awards, AMIRO is your trusted skincare partner that offers portable, short-acting, and long-lasting solutions to improve skincare efficiency.

Upholding the idea of “Revitalize beauty through science”, AMIRO’s products are designed to be affordable, high-quality, and supported by clinical data. With a commitment to sustainability and innovation and a vision of becoming the world’s leading precision skincare group, AMIRO is dedicated to providing skincare solutions that make women of all ages feel confident and beautiful.

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AD HOC ANNOUNCEMENT pursuant to Art. 53 Listing Rules of SIX Swiss Exchange

ZURICH, Switzerland, March 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The Adecco Group 2023 Annual Report is now available in the Ad Hoc section of the Group’s website. Please also refer to the dedicated Annual Report section.

2023 Annual Report (PDF)

Financial calendar

• AGM                                                                                                   11 April 2024
• Ex-Dividend date                                                                               16 April 2024
• Q1 2024 Results                                                                                  7 May 2024
• Q2 2024 / Half Year 2024 Results                                                   6 August 2024
• Q3 2024 Results                                                                        5 November 2024

About The Adecco Group

The Adecco Group is the world’s leading talent company. Our purpose is making the future work for everyone. Through our three global business units – Adecco, Akkodis and LHH – across 60 countries, we enable sustainable and lifelong employability for individuals, deliver digital and engineering solutions to power the Smart Industry transformation and empower organisations to optimise their workforces. The Adecco Group leads by example and is committed to an inclusive culture, fostering sustainable employability, and supporting resilient economies and communities. The Adecco Group AG is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland (ISIN: CH0012138605) and listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ADEN).

Important notice about forward-looking information

Information in this release may involve guidance, expectations, beliefs, plans, intentions, or strategies regarding the future. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. All forward-looking statements included in this release are based on information available to Adecco Group AG as of the date of this release, and we assume no duty to update any such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are not guarantees of future performance and actual results could differ materially from our current expectations. Numerous factors could cause or contribute to such differences. Factors that could affect the Company’s forward-looking statements include, among other things: global GDP trends and the demand for temporary work; the impact of the global outbreak of novel coronavirus disease (COVID); changes in regulation of temporary work; intense competition in the markets in which the Company operates; integration of acquired companies; changes in the Company’s ability to attract and retain qualified internal and external personnel or clients, the potential impact of disruptions related to IT; any adverse developments in existing commercial relationships, disputes or legal and tax proceedings.

For further information please contact:

Investor Relations 
investor.relations@adeccogroup.com                                                               
+41 (0)44 878 88 88

Press Office
media@adeccogroup.com 
+44 (0) 20 4592 0646

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