Big Spenders in Pattaya – Chinese tourists lead in numbers, Indians shine in per-capita spending

Pattaya thrives as a top destination for Chinese and Indian tourists, with Chinese visitors driving spending through high volumes and attractions, while Indian tourists outspend per capita on luxury weddings, nightlife, and business events. Both markets are vital to Pattaya’s vibrant economy. PATTAYA, Thailand – In Pattaya, both Chinese and Indian tourists are significant contributors…

Gov. Dodo Mandanas joins distribution of books to elementary school students

The Batangas provincial government sought to encourage students in the province to read by providing them with astorybook.
Batangas Gov. Dodo Mandanas joined the activity, led by the Provincial School Board.
Elementary school students were given copies of the book “365 stories.”
It contains different stories as well as colorful illustrations. With this book, readers can enjoy one story per day for the whole year.
The books were distributed to schools in Bauan, San Luis, San Pascual, Alitagtag, Sta. Teresita, Mabini, and Tingloy.
By encouraging students to read, the Provincial School Board seeks to ensure the improvement of education in Batangas.
Mandanas, during the event, also expressed his gratitude to teachers who serve as second parents of the students and who hone their skills.

Myah Ariel’s New Book is Like Your Fave Love Song

If the title No Ordinary Love made you automatically think of the iconic Sade song, then you’ve come to the right place. While we’re not exactly talking about that track here, we still got the next big thing for you. Myah Ariel is back with her sophomore book and it’s giving us all those kinds of vibes thanks to its celeb romance plot and some of our favorite lyrics from songs that will inspire your next playlist. Cosmopolitan has an exclusive look at Myah Ariel’s No Ordinary Love, which is set to be released on April 1, 2025. The book focuses on a singer and an MLB player who start a fake relationship in the hopes to help each other’s career. But with their hearts and their futures on the line, things quickly heat up and they have to figure out what’s real and what’s for the cameras. Check out the official description below from our friends at Berkley:A PR partnership between a pop superstar and a pro-athlete bad boy turns into so much more in this swoony romance from the acclaimed author of When I Think of You.Ella Simone’s popstar life is what dreams are made of. Her eight year marriage to renowned music producer, Elliot Majors, has helped garner the hits, awards, and adoring fans to prove it. But when Ella tires of Elliot’s many infidelities, she decides to fight for her independence despite the ironclad prenup that threatens her career.To help her case, Ella is under strict orders to stick to The Plan: no headlines, no rumors, no rocking the boat. But this strategy is thrown a curveball after an awards show wardrobe snafu and quick rescue by Miles Westbrook, MLB’s most eligible player, sends the tabloids into a frenzy. Amid tricky divorce proceedings, Ella’s magnetic connection with the charismatic pitcher might just be her downfall.Now the pressure is on to turn a scandal into an opportunity and give their teams what they want: a picture-perfect performance that will shore up both Ella and Miles’ reputations. But as the lines between reality and PR begin to blur, Ella will either stick to the choreographed life she knows so well, or surrender to a love that could set her free.Before you get your lucky jersey out and start belting some of your favorite love songs, you can check out an exclusive excerpt below. Just make sure to pre-order No Ordinary Love and also check out Myah’s other book as well.An Excerpt From No Ordinary LoveBy Myah ArieMiles Westbrook’s presence looms large backstage. Even with a frenzied sea of people separating us, I am keenly aware of him standing in a dark corner chatting closely with a member of his team. I can’t remember ever feeling this affected by a complete stranger before—wary yet intrigued at the same time.Prior to tonight I had seen the man before . . . in photographs and on TV.Briefly, I revisit Sheryl’s ridiculous contributions to the group chat, along with Jamie and Rodney’s relentless teasing. It’s one thing to make jokes with your friends about getting back in the swing of things. But nothing could quite prepare me for the chemical reactions Miles would draw out of me with just a glance. That’s all this is. The body’s natural response when presented with a desirable person, after its most basic wants have been neglected for far too long.In this case, the person stands a few inches taller than every- one else who is zipping between us and frantically occupied with the business of putting on the show. And considering the fact that almost half of us are tiptoeing around while propped up on what might as well be called stilts, that’s saying a lot. The person has a bright white smile that stretches broadly over a strong chin, is framed by achingly full lips, and bracketed by dimples that curve deep within the rich brown complexion of his otherwise angular face.“Ms. Simone, if you come with me now, I’ll introduce you to Mr. Westbrook,” a show producer says with a polite smile that knocks me out of my trance. I smile back and follow after her on stiff legs. Something elemental happens in the room as the distance closes between me and Miles. Like somehow, just by walking thirty feet, I’ve traversed a continent and entered a new climate. At about the halfway mark, Miles seems to take note of my approach. And when our eyes lock, for the second time to- night, I can only hold the contact for a moment before I glance away to break the tension.In the final seconds before reaching him, I give myself the pep talk of the century. It consists of several get it togethers, a few girl, he is just a mans, and a final resounding Elladee Ashley Robinson, your grandmama taught you better than this. So, by the time I am squarely in front of him, I’ve mustered the poise and control to act like the well-adjusted adult I am, but only in the most uncertain terms.“Hi, Miles, it’s nice to meet you,” I say, extending my hand with a perfectly professional smile.“Ella,” he says my name and tapers off, like he meant to follow it up with something and never quite decided on what. But his eyes remain steady on mine. And there’s an indecision there, like he’s willing them to stay put rather than travel the length of me, like they really want to.I can’t shake the dangerous feeling that I want to be looked at by him. Like I want his eyes to drink me in, have their fill, and wordlessly affirm their delight. It’s even more maddening that he won’t give me the satisfaction of that coveted, languid perusal. Despite what the tabloids have said, Miles Westbrook has self- control, and everything in me wants to test it.At some point in the past few seconds, we wound up alone. I have a faint memory of the producer telling us she’d be back with our sides. But I’m currently more preoccupied with the two loose buttons at the top of Miles’s silk shirt, which reveal the divot at the base of his neck and just a hint of his strong chest.My distraction is so utter and complete that I don’t realize how long I’ve been staring as we’ve stood in total silence, until Miles clears his throat. “So, I’m a . . . fan,” he says, piercing the awkwardness. And surprisingly, his words are stilted, like now that we’ve been left alone for probably only a minute—at least I hope it’s only been that long—he’s nervous in my presence. “Of y-your music that is.”“Ah,” I say, dubious of the claim. Most athletes I’ve come in contact with have Drake or Kendrick on their AirPods, not my subgenre of pop and R&B.“You’re about to quiz me, aren’t you?” he asks, a sly grin creeping across his perfect face.I fight the urge to fan myself as I feel sweat beading down my back. “I wouldn’t dare,” I lie.“Oh, it’s cool. My pop always said if you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready,” he counters, rolling his shoulders like he’s pre- paring for a workout. He sports a panty-dropping grin that’s as boyish as it’s devilish.“I’m waiting, then,” I say, crossing my arms and cocking my head to the side. I’m aware of what the motion does to my chest in this dress, and I don’t miss the moment his eyes swoop low and then return to my face—or the slight strain of his furrowed brow, like he’s disappointed in himself for succumbing. I’m not.He rolls his shoulders. “Okay, top-three Ella Simone tracks for me are . . . ‘Cry Alone,’ ‘Thief of Hearts,’ and the new one y-you just released. The Sade interpolation.”’No Ordinary Love’ by Myah Ariel“‘No Ordinary Love,’” I say, referring to the redux Elliot and I recorded a year ago and let linger to collect dust on a shelf until the label released it last week. Mostly, I’m stunned that Miles West- brook just used the word interpolation. Not because I’d be so silly as to make the basic assumption that an athlete wouldn’t have a vast vocabulary. It’s just not a word you hear thrown around by people who aren’t intimately involved in the process of producing music.But before I can even respond, we’re joined again by the producer, who’s carrying a printout of our lines. She steps up to us gingerly, as if she’s afraid to interrupt. “You don’t have to memorize it,” she says timidly. “There’ll be a prompter. But just in case, sometimes people like to . . . well, you’ve both done this before. Anyhoo, holler if you need me. You’re on in five!”She hands us one printout to look at and scurries off to other duties. Now that we’ve got our assignment, we put the music talk on ice. Miles casually positions himself next to me and lowers the page so I can look on with him. Then we stand in silence. And I don’t know about him, but I’m looking at the words on the page without really seeing what’s there. Instead, I’m cataloging the subtle notes of his cologne, wondering exactly how tall he is, and fix- ating on how strongly defined his fingers are—curious all of a sudden to know if the hand holding the page is the one he pitches with.Miles clears his throat. “Uh, so . . . it looks like they kept it pretty straightforward for us,” he says, settling the mystery of whether or not he’s as distracted by my presence as I am his.I look up at him and notice his eyes are shifty and his jaw is tight. The swagger and ease from a moment ago has all but dissipated. “Wait, don’t tell me you’re . . . are you nervous about presenting?” I ask, careful not to sound like I’m teasing him.He shrugs. Not dismissively, but more like an admission of de- feat. “Public speaking. It’s uh . . .” He pauses, eyes darting around as if checking for lurkers. “I stutter.” He shrugs again, but this time with a small smile. And such an innocent gesture on this grown, gorgeous man is disarming.“Oh. I see,” I say, briefly at a loss for what to do or say to put him at ease. “Is there anything that helps when you get blocked? Anything I can do?” My best friend in middle school had a stutter, and eventually she discovered that clapping her hands or snapping her fingers whenever she got held up on a syllable or letter seemed to help get her over the hump. I can’t assume the same trick works for everyone with the same speech impediment, but I figure it couldn’t hurt to ask.“Nah. It’s okay,” Miles says. “But most people don’t even think to ask that, so I appreciate you.”I nod, probably a bit too aggressively, and my brain produces no additional thoughts. We stand in awkward silence for a few more seconds.“I tap my thigh when I get stuck,” Miles offers. “It doesn’t al- ways w-work, but it helps me often enough.”I’m about to say something totally inadequate for this vulnerable disclosure, like thank you for sharing that with me or oh, that’s nice to know, when I’m saved by the bell.“There you are!” shouts Rodney. Feeling uneasy and desperate for an escape, I turn and begin walking up to him and Angelo without realizing that one of the long tassels of my skirt is wedged underneath Miles’s shoe.I hear the pop of fabric before I feel the straps snap one by one. Excerpted from No Ordinary Love by Myah Ariel Copyright © 2025 by Myah Ariel. Excerpted by permission of Berkley. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.No Ordinary Love, by Myah Ariel will be released on April 1, 2025. To preorder the book, click on the retailer of your choice:BARNES & NOBLE BOOKSHOP KOBO LIBRO.FM WALMART POWELL’S BOOKS HUDSON BOOKSELLERS GOOGLE PLAY EBOOKS.COM

“JCM’s robotics technology is something that we have brought to the industry and nobody else has”

JCM Global was present at last month’s Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas. At its booth, the company exhibited a range of advanced technologies and solutions for both the casino floor and count room, including digital signage and systems for cash and mobile transactions. 
During the expo, Yogonet spoke with Dave Kubajak, SVP of Sales, Marketing, and Operations at JCM; and Juan Pablo Farcuh, Commercial Manager of Mercado Gaming, the official reseller of JCM In Latin America.
Kubajak and Farcuh shared insights not only into JCM’s novelties but also into the various markets the brand is present in, or expanding into, including North America, Latin America, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

What was your impression of this year’s G2E?Dave Kubajak: The show this year was amazing, we had so many customers. The foot traffic in our booth was very intense. I am so pleased, compared to years past, with the number of customers that we had coming in.
We saw plenty of people from North America, Central America, the Caribbean, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. We pretty much covered the whole map by the end of the show. It’s unbelievable.
What were some of the highlights for this edition? 
Dave Kubajak: The big theme for us at JCM is always about hospitality and showing our appreciation to our customers. When our customers come in, we always try to have a lot of seating. We have a coffee bar, we have snacks for them. We want them to know how much we appreciate their business.

On the product side, we always try to bring innovation and show our customers something new. Some of the novelties we had this year included clear transparent signage. We won ‘Most Innovative Product of The Year’ last year for that technology. We’ve taken it a step further, and now we have it designed for the front of buildings. You can build the exterior of a building out of transparent glass with LEDs embedded into it, turning the entire front of a building into one giant TV screen.
Along with that, we have the transparent circle technology. This is for atriums, lobbies, hotels, convention centers, and any space where you want to create a unique environment that people have never seen before. This lets you do that in a very cool way. Digital signage is a big focus for us this year. 

What other major areas of focus can you highlight for us?
Dave Kubajak: Our robotics technology is something JCM has brought to the industry that nobody else has. When you look at large casinos, the amount of cash that they have to process and handle is bigger than any bank that you’ll find, unless it’s kind of a central bank or a large regional bank. Casinos process more cash than anybody in the world.
The robotics automation we brought over from our industrial side uses robots that typically in the past have been used to build cars. They have 20-year lifespans; they’re meant to run 20 hours a day, non-stop, flawlessly. That product has been installed in Detroit’s Motor City Casino for over a year now. Over 200,000 cash boxes have been processed on that product at Motor City. It’s a huge win for us. 

Are you seeing interest from other operators looking to leverage these solutions, both in North America and elsewhere?
Dave Kubajak: Absolutely. And as you said, not just in North America. We’re also seeing the large casinos that are in Asia and some of the large casinos that are going to be built in Europe and the Middle East that are looking at that kind of technology. Everybody is always afraid to be the first. People always say, ‘Oh, I don’t want to be the first’, but now that we have a casino that’s been running it for a year and they were the first, everybody now realizes that it works.

What about Latin America?
Juan Pablo Farcuh: Latin America is very different from the United States, Asia, Europe, and Australia. They are markets that follow trends, always looking to the north, so to speak. What we focus on in Latin America is more related to post-sales, technical service, and maintenance.
We help ensure that the gambling hall itself, through the technology already installed, increases profitability as well as improves customer contact. Our focus is more oriented towards that. Although casinos in the region want to integrate new technologies, the path is slower.
Is there still an appetite for these solutions despite the slower pace of adoption?
Juan Pablo Farcuh: Even though it’s somewhat lagging behind, I would say there still remains also a focus on Latin America for these technologies. JCM is the number one worldwide casino brand. Casinos always seek to have it in their gaming room; operators want to have that equipment integrated.

Which markets offer the greatest potential for JCM’s products? 
Juan Pablo Farcuh: The Latin American market, as I said before, is a market that follows trends by integrating new equipment. JCM is a benchmark in technology, so the customer always aspires to have the brand integrated into its operation.
At Mercado Gaming, we promote and push that integration of the JCM brand, whether it is with a new device or with a post-sales and technical service device so that the operator continues to carry the brand.
It is very important for JCM the presence of Mercado Gaming because even though the volume of new units is not as high when compared to the United States and Asia, it is still relevant to keep the brand alive in the operator.

Unlocking AI in Business: Insights from MITechTV with Melih Oztalay

BIRMINGHAM, MI January 6, 2025 – Melih Oztalay, CEO of SmartFinds Marketing in Birmingham, Michigan returns to continue his series he began in 2024 on how to AI in Business impacts business operations.The world of artificial intelligence (AI) is evolving rapidly, opening doors to tools and strategies that businesses can leverage for enhanced productivity, marketing, and customer engagement. In a recent episode of MITechTV, Melih Oztalay, CEO of SmartFinds Marketing, shared insights on three transformative AI applications for businesses. Here’s a closer look at the conversation and the opportunities these technologies present.1. Building Your Own AI Assistant – AI in BusinessAI assistants are redefining how businesses and individuals manage repetitive tasks, streamlining operations to save time and effort. Melih kicked off the discussion by highlighting the potential of no-code solutions that enable users to create customized AI assistants for their specific needs.Key Features:Automation of Routine Tasks: AI assistants can handle tasks such as managing emails, scheduling appointments, organizing to-do lists, and even engaging with platforms like LinkedIn.Integration of Tools: By connecting services like Twilio, Google Calendar, Gmail, and more, users can automate workflows efficiently.Accessibility:Although the technology is still in its infancy, no-code platforms are making it increasingly easier for non-technical users to build these tools. However, Melih noted that integrating advanced workflows might still require some technical expertise.Impact:The ability to automate daily activities can significantly improve productivity and reduce human error. Businesses can expect these tools to evolve quickly, becoming even more user-friendly and accessible in the near future.2. AI-Powered Text-to-Video Generation with OpenAI’s Sora – AI in BusinessThe second topic explored the groundbreaking advancements in text-to-video technology, particularly OpenAI’s Sora platform. This innovation is poised to democratize video production for businesses and content creators alike.Features and Capabilities:Customizable Video Creation: Users can generate videos by inputting text, customizing styles, resolutions, and aspect ratios.Ease of Use: Sora simplifies the traditionally complex video creation process, making it accessible even to those with limited experience.Applications:Sora is ideal for creating explainer videos, thought leadership content, and short marketing clips. These tools enable businesses to communicate effectively with their target audiences through engaging visuals.Challenges:Melih shared personal insights into using Sora, emphasizing the importance of a step-by-step approach to ensure successful outcomes. While the platform is powerful, users must carefully craft their inputs to maximize its potential.3. AI for Website Visitor Conversion (CRO) – AI in BusinessAI is transforming how businesses convert website visitors into leads. Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO) tools powered by AI offer dynamic solutions for tracking and engaging users.AI-Driven Journey Funnels:AI tools monitor visitor behavior, including:The number of visits.Pages viewed and time spent on each page.Engagement frequency and patterns.By analyzing this data, the AI creates personalized journey funnels to guide visitors through the sales process.Active vs. Passive CTAs:Traditional websites rely on passive calls to action (CTAs), waiting for visitors to engage. AI-powered tools, however, use active CTAs that dynamically present offers, discounts, or contact forms based on user engagement. This proactive approach significantly increases the likelihood of conversions.B2B Benefits:In the B2B space, where decision-making often involves multiple touchpoints, AI-driven CRO tools can track repeat visits and gauge interest levels. As engagement deepens, these tools adapt their approach, providing tailored CTAs to nudge prospects closer to conversion.The Future of AI in BusinessAs Melih explained, the journey of integrating AI into business operations is just beginning. From AI assistants to text-to-video generation and website visitor conversion tools, these technologies offer unparalleled opportunities to enhance efficiency and engagement.However, businesses must approach these tools strategically, starting with clear goals and a willingness to experiment. As AI continues to mature, its applications will become more intuitive, empowering businesses of all sizes to harness its potential.[embedded content]Connect with Melih Oztalay – AI in BusinessTo dive deeper into these topics and explore how AI can revolutionize your business, connect with Melih Oztalay and SmartFinds Marketing:Tag Melih in your posts for insights and enhanced visibility. Whether you’re just beginning your AI journey or looking to optimize existing strategies, SmartFinds Marketing can guide you toward success.About SmartFinds MarketingSmartFinds Marketing is a digital marketing agency. SmartFinds provides full marketing strategies and solutions to businesses. The marketing process is managed by a team of contemporary marketers who manage new ideas and incorporate early adoption of new strategic technologies to achieve successful results. Helping customers understand web marketing and the web advertising world through education and consultation is part of any SmartFinds program.“Our trusted years of experience in advertising and marketing solutions date back to 1987 and the Internet since 1994. Since the very early days of the industry, we traversed the Internet to gain the knowledge, expertise, and more importantly, the imagination to apply the Internet’s resources to your business needs”, says Melih Oztalay.Melih Oztalay is an industry leader as a guest author on many websites like Search Engine Journal. Additionally, he is a guest speaker at many conferences and events along with being a subject matter expert called on my radio shows and podcasts.SmartFinds Marketing….Creative strategies. Innovative ideas. Use the full power of the Internet with us!Past MITechTV Shows with Melih Oztalay – AI in BusinessUnlocking AI Tools for Business Presented by Melih Oztalay, November 11, 2024AI and SEO: Shaping the Future of Content Optimization with Melih Oztalay, September 9, 2024Harnessing AI for the Future: Insights from Melih Oztalay, June 24, 2024The AI Revolution: News and Tools for Business with Melih Oztalay, April 1, 2024Artificial Intelligence For Business, Part 2 From Melih Oztalay, March 4, 2024Artificial Intelligence In Business: New Series with Melih Oztalay, February 5, 2024

6 Kansas teachers receive Presidential Award for math and science

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – Several Kansas teachers have been named recipients of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. PAEMST are the nation’s highest honor for teachers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.Recipients from Kansas include: Todd Flory (Wheatland Elementary School in Wichita, Kan.) Robin Anderson (Andover Middle School in Andover, Kan.)Angela Gray (Atchinson Elementary School in Atchinson, Kan.)Jennifer Hendrix (Dodge City Public Schools)Erica Huggard (Emporia High School in Emporia, Kan.)Elizabeth Self (Kepley Middle School in Ulysses, Kan.)With this award, teachers will receive $10,000 from the National Science Foundation, a certificate signed by the President, a trip to Washington, D.C., to celebrate their accomplishments, and a membership joining more than 5,200 teacher-alumni from across the nation. While in D.C., they will participate in professional development activities and network with fellow STEM educators from across the country.Copyright 2025 KWCH. All rights reserved. To report a correction or typo, please email [email protected]

Chapter Closes on BASF | Forward AM’s Operations in the United States

BASF | Forward AM, a prominent provider of 3D printing materials and solutions, has ceased its U.S. operations after five and a half years in the region. The transition was initially brought to light through a LinkedIn post by Strategic Sales Leader Jeremy Vos, who reflected on his tenure and shared insights about the company’s future directions. Recent developments now include an official announcement from Forward AM outlining a new partnership designed to maintain robust service offerings for North American customers.

While BASF began to exit the North American market for 3D printing, Forward AM sought ways to uphold its customer commitments. Its newly released official statement reveals a partnership with RP America, a distributor and service provider known for extensive technical expertise in the field of additive manufacturing. According to Forward AM, this strategic move aims to ensure ongoing product availability and on-site support for customers in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico—effectively bridging any gaps left by BASF’s market exit.

“As BASF winds down its North American 3D printing operations, we are committed to ensuring continuity and excellence for our customers. Our partnership with RP America reflects our dedication to delivering not just the products, but the technical expertise and customer care that drive success in additive manufacturing,” said Martin Back, CEO at Forward AM.

BASF Forward AM logo. Image via BASF Forward AM.

RP America, based in New Sharon, Iowa, brings over two decades of experience in additive manufacturing services and distribution. Known for its customer-centric approach, the company aims to help clients achieve production and innovation goals in a rapidly evolving 3D printing ecosystem. Its partnership with Forward AM integrates the latter’s advanced materials portfolio with hands-on, on-site engineering assistance and training—a blend both organizations believe will strengthen local additive manufacturing capabilities.

“We are thrilled to work alongside Forward AM as their master partner for North America. This partnership enables us to bring Forward AM’s cutting-edge materials and solutions to North American industries, combining their world-class portfolio with our commitment to on-the-ground service and support,” said Paul Anfinson, Executive Vice President of RP America.

RP America Logo. Image via RP America.

Legacy and Innovations in 3D Printing

Originally founded in 2017 as a subsidiary of BASF, Forward AM was launched to expand the chemical giant’s role in the additive manufacturing space. Over time, Forward AM integrated BASF’s 3D printing materials with the services of Sculpteo, shaping a comprehensive suite of additive manufacturing offerings.

Sculpteo and Daniel Robert’s 3D printed Orthosis. Images via Sculpteo.

In 2020, the company introduced Ultrafuse 17-4 PH—a hybrid filament allowing cost-effective metal 3D printing on FDM systems, broadening the scope of metal additive manufacturing. A year later, it collaborated with BigRep, a large-format 3D printer manufacturer, to develop a PET filament for concrete formwork, reducing construction times and costs for complex precast structures.

The hand stop 3D printed with BASF Ultrafuse PP GF30 was modified to provide stability while aiming the rifle with a fractured hand. Photo via Zortrax.

At Formnext 2023, Forward AM worked with Farsoon Technologies and Hyperganic to advance integrated solutions for 3D printing lattice structures, aiming to guarantee successful prints on the first attempt. In mid-2024, the organization underwent a management buy-out led by CEO Martin Back, enabling the company to operate independently under the Forward AM Technologies banner.

A variety of 3D lattice structures produced with Ultrasint® TPU 88A on Farsoon Plastic PBF system. Photo via Farsoon Technologies.

Despite an impressive growth rate—reportedly reaching 30% annually since 2022—Forward AM experienced financial pressures in late 2024. These challenges led to an insolvency filing in Germany, prompting a court-appointed administrator to oversee restructuring efforts. While Forward AM’s U.S. operations have ceased, the partnership with RP America reflects the company’s proactive approach to sustaining a strong market presence and maintaining service delivery for North American clients.

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Featured image shows BASF | Forward AM logo. Image via BASF | Forward AM.

Marchesi Frescobaldi and Vintus Expand Partnership in the United States

Iconic Tuscan Winemaking Family Entrusts Leading Importer with Exclusive Distribution of Its Full Portfolio

January 14, 2025, New York, NY  — Marchesi Frescobaldi, the legendary Tuscan winemaking family with over 700 years of history, has announced an expansion of its successful partnership with VINTUS, an award-winning importer of fine wines. Effective immediately, VINTUS will oversee the exclusive U.S. distribution of Marchesi Frescobaldi’s portfolio of Tuscan estates collectively called “Frescobaldi Toscana.” This significant development builds on VINTUS’ proven track record with Marchesi Frescobaldi’s celebrated Attems, Tenuta Luce, Ornellaia, and Masseto brands. VINTUS aims to solidify Marchesi Frescobaldi’s position as the premier name in Tuscan wines through innovative sales and marketing strategies.

“The United States represents a critical market for our company. We dedicate significant attention to it, both in terms of investment and engagement, at the highest levels of our business operations and strategic awareness,” stated Lamberto Frescobaldi, President of the Marchesi FRESCOBALDI Group. “On a personal note, I hold a special connection to the United States, having spent my university years there. I have witnessed firsthand the care and dedication invested in the objectives we have set, and with Vintus working closely alongside us, we are confident that these goals will translate into remarkable successes.”

For centuries, Marchesi Frescobaldi has cultivated vineyards across Tuscany’s most prestigious appellations, which are renowned for producing high-quality DOC, DOCG, and IGT wines. Each of the family’s nine Frescobaldi Toscana estates—Castello Nipozzano, Castello Pomino, Tenuta Perano, Tenuta CastelGiocondo, Tenuta Castiglioni, Tenuta Ammiraglia, Tenuta Calimaia, Remole, and Gorgona—reflects a distinct terroir and winemaking style. This expanded collaboration connects these estates to the ongoing success of Attems, Tenuta Luce, Ornellaia, and Masseto under VINTUS’ stewardship, creating a unified vision for the U.S. market.

Michael Quinttus, Founder and CEO of VINTUS, commented: “Our longstanding work with the Frescobaldi family has revealed the increasing demand for handcrafted Tuscan wines that authentically reflect their unique terroirs. This expanded partnership offers a remarkable opportunity to tell the stories behind each estate and their wines. With the Frescobaldi family’s steadfast dedication to excellence and the strength of our sales and internal teams, we are well-equipped to expand their presence in the best restaurant and retail accounts in the U.S.. We, along with our distributor partners, are honored to continue this journey with such an iconic winemaking family.”

Each Frescobaldi Toscana estate operates as an individual producer, managing its own viticulture, fermentations, and cellaring processes. This approach highlights the unique characteristics and expressions of each terroir, underscoring the family’s commitment to authenticity and quality. Hallmarks of Tuscan winemaking diversity—elegance, balance, and innovation—have defined Frescobaldi’s legacy, which includes pioneering advancements such as the construction of Tuscany’s first gravity-fed winery at Castello Pomino in the mid-1800s and the introduction of international varietals, including Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, to Tuscany’s terroirs.

The Frescobaldi family also emphasizes its social and environmental responsibility, evident in its collaboration on the Gorgona Island project, which began in 2012. This unique initiative involves the cultivation of grapes by inmates on the island of Gorgona, hired by Frescobaldi Toscana, producing rare wines that support rehabilitation efforts. Furthermore, the family’s forward-thinking approach is exemplified by the state-of-the-art winery at Tenuta Ammiraglia, completed in 2011, which blends modern architecture and technology with Frescobaldi’s commitment to tradition and innovation.

Hallmarks of the Marchesi Frescobaldi estate portfolio include:

Ornellaia: A benchmark in Bolgheri famed globally for its powerful, elegant blends.

Masseto: A cult-status Merlot celebrated for its extraordinary richness and depth.

Tenuta Luce: Known for innovative blends that embody the spirit of Montalcino.

Attems: A Friuli-based estate producing vibrant, expressive white wines.

Castello Nipozzano: Situated in Chianti Rùfina, renowned for its age-worthy Sangiovese wines.

Tenuta CastelGiocondo: Home to Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, known for its longevity and complexity.

Tenuta Ammiraglia: Located in Maremma, producing fresh, maritime-influenced wines like Vermentino.

Castello Pomino: The highest vineyards in Tuscany, recognized for their Chardonnay and Pinot Nero.

Tenuta Perano: Positioned in Chianti Classico, offering wines with vibrant structure and elegance.

Gorgona: A social responsibility project producing rare wines cultivated by inmates on the island of Gorgona.

Tenuta Calimaia: A Montepulciano estate producing Vino Nobile with refined expression.

Remole: Representing the approachable, convivial side of Tuscany with its easy-drinking wines.

Tenuta Castiglioni: The family’s historic estate, blending tradition and modern winemaking techniques.

VINTUS is strategically positioned to further enhance Marchesi Frescobaldi’s standing in the U.S. market, utilizing its extensive industry experience and strong network to showcase the breadth and depth of Frescobaldi’s extraordinary portfolio to an even wider audience.

About Marchesi FrescobaldiMarchesi Frescobaldi is one of Italy’s most celebrated wine producers, boasting a winemaking legacy that spans over 700 years and 30 generations. The family’s philosophy blends tradition with innovation, creating exceptional wines that reflect the diversity of Tuscany’s finest terroirs. For more information, visit: https://www.frescobaldi.com/en/ – Advertisement – About VINTUSVINTUS is a leading fine wine importer representing a global portfolio of family-owned producers committed to excellence. With a focus on exceptional terroir-driven wines, VINTUS has earned recognition as a trusted partner for fine wine distribution in the United States. Learn more at www.vintus.com