Latest news with #French-Japanese
Miami Herald
16-06-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Nissan CEO Speaks Out About Renault Break-up Accusations
Since taking the helm on April 1, Nissan CEO Ivan Espinosa has been tasked with supercharging the recovery and restructuring efforts meant to steer the storied Japanese automaker back on the right track. Last month, Espinosa revealed a turnaround plan titled "Re:Nissan," which consisted of heavy streamlining and consolidation of the automaker's current assets. These include increased job cuts affecting up to about 20,000 people and closing seven of Nissan's car factories, among other moves he categorized as "a very, very painful and sad decision to take" that is "necessary for the survival of Nissan." In a report published by Japanese business authority Nikkei on June 16, Nissan CEO Ivan Espinosa said that the automaker plans to reduce its stake in its longtime alliance partner Renault. Nissan currently holds a 15% stake in the French automaker; however, the two said in March that they mutually agreed to reduce their required minimum stake in each other's company from 15% to 10%. Under their agreement, either Nissan or Renault is required to coordinate with the other party before they sell shares, which they hold the right to refuse. At current share prices, chopping off a 5% stake in Renault would raise about 100 billion yen ($640 million). The Nissan CEO said that this would fund Nissan's plans for new vehicle development. "We are bringing down our cross-shareholdings in order to invest in vehicles," Espinosa told Nikkei in an interview. Renault and Nissan's relationship dates back to 1999. When they first partnered, Renault acquired 36.8% of Nissan for $3.5 billion. In return, Nissan promised to invest in Renault once it was financially stable. In 2001, after Nissan successfully turned around from the brink of bankruptcy, it purchased a 15% stake in Renault. In response, Renault increased its stake in Nissan to 43.4%. After more than two decades together, Renault and Nissan have established some distance between each other. Since 2023, Renault has been gradually selling its stake in Nissan as part of a significant revision of their alliance agreement, which aimed to establish a more balanced relationship between the two automakers. However, in remarks to Nikkei Asia, Espinosa emphasized that the reduced amount of involvement on paper is not meant to indicate that the French-Japanese tie-up isn't eroding. "Maybe from the outside it looks like the relationship is weakening because we are reducing the shareholding that we have with each other," he said in an interview with Nikkei Asia. "Actually, it is the opposite." In March, Nissan sold its 51% share in a car plant in India to its joint owner, Renault Group, resulting in the French company's ownership of 100%. The move aligned with Nissan's goal of reducing fixed costs and Renault's goal of expanding its business outside Europe. Renault will continue producing cars for Nissan in India. Espinosa said collaborating with partners such as Renault and Mitsubishi was a "very easy [and] practical way to work," adding that, "the relationship is actually very close because we have many projects ongoing." In an interview with Nikkei, Espinosa said that his business plan, which would cut jobs and factories following a 2024-2025 fiscal year net loss of nearly $4.6 billion, was meant to tackle problems at Nissan that were skin-deep, adding: "It is important to understand this is not [just] … solving the problems that started one or two years ago. We are really fixing some fundamental problems that the company has." He also added that he wanted to reverse past management's moves, which had invested a significant amount in production capacity and human resources for a sales surge that never materialized, noting that such a feat had become "impossible." "The only remaining [option] is resizing the company... We know we cannot grow the volume," Espinosa said, adding that he would "bring the company size to something that we can manage with the revenue that we have." Though Espinosa has been known as a "car guy," ultimately, producing cars is a business, and right-sized solutions are needed to succeed in this industry. Hopefully, this will help Nissan continue. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Gulf Insider
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Insider
Review: A Memorable Stay at Marriott Marquis Dubai Creek
The recently opened Marriott Marquis Dubai Creek is the kind of hotel that surprises you (and your expectations). I stay in more hotels than I can count, mostly for work, and rarely does a business-focused property tick all the boxes quite like this one. Let's start with location: a solid win. Five minutes from the airport, ten from DIFC, and you're practically neighbours with Dubai Festival City, the Gold & Spice Souks, and a championship golf course. It's a sweet spot whether you're landing for a board meeting or heading out to explore. My check-in was seamless, and the hotel, although still relatively new, was impressively busy. The Marriott Marquis name tends to draw a crowd that appreciates understated luxury, and this one is no exception. It delivers that signature blend of comfort and efficiency, with just the right amount of shine. The Promenade The Skyline I was upgraded to a suite with a panoramic view over the creek – and honestly, waking up to that golden morning light bouncing off the water made the business emails feel a little less dreadful. The area is buzzing yet peaceful, a rare combination in this part of the city. The restaurants deserve a proper mention. You could spend a full week here without running out of great food. Creek Kitchen had a buzzing breakfast vibe, Bella Bocca made me crave carbs again (those pasta…), and BBQ Bros served up proper grilled indulgence with a view. Bella Bocca Creek Kitchen Ruby Ru by Iris was the unexpected scene-stealer – French-Japanese flavours, inventive cocktails, and a terrace that comes alive as the sun dips. The Copperhead , with its easygoing pub feel and solid bar bites, was my go-to after long meetings. The M Club Lounge also deserves a nod. Great for those who want to work, snack, or unwind in peace. Bonus points for the outdoor seating and the all-day offerings. Between appointments, I managed to sneak in a couple of workouts at the hotel's gym – easily one of the better ones I've seen in a business hotel. Spacious, well-equipped, and overlooking the pool deck. The Pool Deck The Gym And then there's the sauna and steam room, which I'll go ahead and call 'essential.' The spa facilities as a whole are excellent – whether you're winding down from a flight or a meeting, it's the kind of place where you can genuinely reset. But what stood out the most was how everything just worked, no fuss, no trying too hard. The staff are fantastic – warm, attentive, and seem to read the room perfectly, whether you're in a hurry or in holiday mode. It's one of those rare hotels where I felt like I had everything I needed – great dining, reliable WiFi, top-tier fitness and wellness facilities, and a location that made getting around Dubai almost too easy. Whether you're in town to close deals or just want a breezy creekside escape with a touch of polish, Marriott Marquis Dubai Creek makes a pretty compelling case. I can't wait to be back. For more details, visit: or contact: +971 4-5990000
The Age
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Age
‘Is that legal?' Hospo identities share weirdest customer requests
Antoine Moscovitz handled plenty of edible exotica working in the Paris kitchen of legendary French chef Alain Ducasse, but the most unusual request of his career came from a Sydney diner who asked if he'd whip up a possum dish. Difficult requests, intriguing orders and just plain weird queries are a daily challenge for our chefs, waiters and bartenders. And Australia's best have to keep on their toes, because they might be called on to puree steak frites in a blender or asked to make a cocktail with breast milk, or accommodate a diner who wants to wield a sword at dinner. But back to that possum. Moscovitz, who recently opened French-Japanese restaurant Bellevue Woolloomooloo in Sydney, said the request for a marsupial main course came not at the new venue on Finger Wharf in Woolloomooloo, but from a regular customer at his Glebe restaurant, Bellevue Cottage. 'They wanted a private function for 50 people,' he said. With possum the star of the show, Moscovitz's first thought was, 'Is that legal?' He briefly pondered practical matters, like how you'd even cook it? 'I'm guessing like a rabbit,' he said.
Sydney Morning Herald
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Sydney Morning Herald
‘Is that legal?' Hospo identities share weirdest customer requests
Antoine Moscovitz handled plenty of edible exotica working in the Paris kitchen of legendary French chef Alain Ducasse, but the most unusual request of his career came from a Sydney diner who asked if he'd whip up a possum dish. Difficult requests, intriguing orders and just plain weird queries are a daily challenge for our chefs, waiters and bartenders. And Australia's best have to keep on their toes, because they might be called on to puree steak frites in a blender or asked to make a cocktail with breast milk, or accommodate a diner who wants to wield a sword at dinner. But back to that possum. Moscovitz, who recently opened French-Japanese restaurant Bellevue Woolloomooloo in Sydney, said the request for a marsupial main course came not at the new venue on Finger Wharf in Woolloomooloo, but from a regular customer at his Glebe restaurant, Bellevue Cottage. 'They wanted a private function for 50 people,' he said. With possum the star of the show, Moscovitz's first thought was, 'Is that legal?' He briefly pondered practical matters, like how you'd even cook it? 'I'm guessing like a rabbit,' he said.
Time Out Dubai
16-05-2025
- Time Out Dubai
Team Time Out suggest the best things to do before summer
There's no denying those temperatures are creeping up. Dubai summer will soon arrive and although there are plenty of incredible things to do indoors, time is running out to make the most of outside. To help you decide how to make the most of your last few weeks of being in the fresh air, we've shared our top recommendations. Before the heat hits, this is everything we'll be ticking off ASAP. The best things to do before summer Emilie Hill — Acting Editor Visit Alserkal Avenue Credit: Alserkal Avenue Best time to visit: After breakfast It won't be long until walking during the day is a bad idea, so head to Alserkal Avenue soon to clock some serious steps. Offering everything from award-winning cafés to cool concept stores, this retail haven is always worth a dedicated afternoon. If you need a coffee after breakfast, head to Time Out Dubai's Best Bakery, BKRY, for your caffeine fix. Open daily from 8am-10pm. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz @ Tuck into dinner al fresco Credit: Lana Lusa With a dreamy terrace overlooking Dubai Canal and home-cooked recipes from the founder's grandmother, a table at Lana Lusa is consistently good. What's more, its roomy terrace might trick you into thinking you took a flight to Portugal. Hunker down with a drink or three courses. Need more reservation inspo? Take a look at our award-winning restaurant list right here. Licensed. Four Seasons Private Residences Dubai, Jumeirah 2 (04 380 1515). Aimee Jakes — Digital Editor A pool day at African Queen Best time to visit: lunchtime J1 Beach Club's African Queen is pool day comes highly recommended if you're in the mood to relax. The focal (and very aesthetic) pool is chilled, cold towels and face mists are brought to your lounger and the food menu is full of delicious crowd-pleasers. Dhs350 (Dhs100 redeemable on weekdays). Mon-Thu 10am-midnight, Fri-Sun 10am-1am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, (052 778 0760). A game of padel at The Matcha Club Credit: Matcha Club Best time to visit: early morning or evening Padel is essentially a non-negotiable if you live in Dubai and outdoor rallies will be almost impossible come summer. Treat yourself to a boutique padel session at The Matcha Club and then relax and dine at the venue's restaurant, Nette. The menu is full of French-Japanese inspired breakfasts, salads and sandwiches to help you refuel like a champ. Dhs400 for 90 minutes (Dhs100 per player). Open daily 6am-midnight. Al Quoz Industrial Area 1, (04 548 8364). Findlay Mair — News Editor A leisurely stroll at JBR (Credit: JBR) Best time to visit: before sunrise The sun's out, the birds are chirping and a few of your favourite podcasts have just dropped. There's no better way to spend a weekend morning than getting those all-important daily steps in while it's hot-but-not-too-hot at JBR. Take it easy like a Sunday morning and stay out of the way of the runners hitting the track. Take your time, grab a snack and snap a couple of pics for your IG Stories along the way. Watch the end of the football season at Barasti (Credit: Barasti) Best time to visit: just before kick-off As the football season draws to a close, there's no better place in Dubai to soak up the atmosphere while watching all the big finals coming up before the summer than this Dubai institution. And when your team, inevitably, let you down, there's now a stunning new beach day experience at the OG beach club that'll help you take your mind off of things. Open daily from 9am-3am. Barasti Beach, Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark, (04 511 7373). Sian Traynor — Features Editor Grab an outdoor brekkie (Credit: Brix Café) Best time to visit: 8.30-9am The weather is still just about cool enough to enjoy breakfast outside and if you sit in the shade with an iced latte you'll be absolutely fine. Before the heat hits, take the chance to sit on the BRIX terrace, look out at the boats in Jumeirah Fishing Harbour and tuck into a pistachio-loaded croissant (yum). Open daily 8am-11.30am. Jumeirah, (054 515 7861). Cycle along Kite Beach Best time to visit: sunset Grab a Careem bike (or bring your own) at the Kite Beach docking station and head off for a pedal along the beach. There's a designated path and if you cycle in the direction of the Burj Al Arab, you'll be cycling straight into the sunset (which is always an impressive sight). Once you've looped back to the dock, return your bike then head to cool off with a Boost Smoothie, sit on the sand and pop in for an evening dip if you fancy it. Kite Beach, Umm Suqeim. Looking for things to do in Dubai? The best dining deals and offers in Dubai to snap up Don't miss these incredible discounts across the city today 12 brilliant beach clubs in Jumeirah to book ASAP You're spoilt for choice It's official: These are the 86 best restaurants in Dubai Tried and tested by us
