Latest news with #KenHarris
RNZ News
6 days ago
- Business
- RNZ News
Rural community in Western Bay of Plenty ‘in shock' as industrial park greenlit
Priority Te Puna spokesperson Alison Cowley (inset) is against the industrial park on Te Puna Station Rd. Photo: LDR / John Borren ./ Alisha Evans A rural Western Bay of Plenty community is "in shock" as a controversial local industrial park is greenlit. Photo: Te Puna residents have been rallying against the development since 2021, as they say the culturally significant, flood-prone wetland is inappropriate for the business. Resource consents were granted for the industrial park by an independent commission whose decision was released last week. Te Puna Industrial Limited bought 12ha of industrial-zoned land at 297 Te Puna Station Rd for $4.7 million in 2021 and applied for consents from the Western Bay of Plenty District and Bay of Plenty Regional councils in 2022. The company is half-owned by shipping container company ContainerCo. ContainerCo managing director Ken Harris said they planned to build "very low-intensity, specialised businesses" at Te Puna Business Park. ContainerCo managing director Ken Harris. Photo: LDR / Supplied Plans included refrigeration engineering, workshop activities including container washing, and the company's sales office. The business park website said ContainerCo would hold a "small supply" of up to 300 containers at the site. Priority Te Puna spokesperson Alison Cowley said the community was "in shock and very depressed" about the decision. "People took the assumption that it was so ridiculous that it was never going to happen." There were safety concerns because of the increase in trucks and heavy vehicles on Te Puna Rd from the park, Cowley said. "We feel that the impact on Te Puna Village and the Te Puna Rd corridor has not been in any way considered." Alison Cowley is worried about having a higher number of trucks and heavy vehicles in the area. Photo: LDR / Alisha Evans Cowley said the consent conditions were "extremely stringent" so it was up to the council to ensure they were complied with. Concerned locals formed the incorporated society, Priority Te Puna in 2022. They intend holding a public meeting about the consent approval on 23 July at 7pm at the Te Puna Memorial Hall. Harris said there had been a "huge amount of misinformation" spread about the development, which was "disappointing". There were signs dotted around the settlement saying, "Container Terminal, Te Puna Says No" and "Wrong Business, Wrong Place, No Container Terminal". Signs are dotted around Te Puna opposing the industrial park on Te Puna Station Road. Photo: LDR / John Borren There was no intention to build a container terminal or a container park of any scale, he said. "This is a facility that will fit into the community and be good for the region." The consent process was "very thorough and rigorous", Harris said. The traffic plans were "carefully considered" by experts and if people were concerned, they could call the company, he said. "If traffic causes a problem people should talk to us and we will listen carefully and adjust plans as required." Once fully developed, the site would generate 774 vehicle movements per day, with a peak of 125 vehicles an hour, according to the commission's decision report. It also said Western Bay of Plenty District Council had committed to upgrading the Te Puna Station Rd/Te Puna Rd intersection, with works set to start in October and finish late January. Harris said they would also be establishing community and mana whenua liaison groups. The land is culturally significant to Pirirakau hapū, who occupied the Pukewhanake Pā at the headland of the Te Hakao valley, and the wetland was once an important food source for them. The consents went through a lengthy process, including public submissions in 2023. Of the 273 submissions 271 were opposed, one was neutral, and one did not clearly state a position. At hearings in July 2024, 17 submitters addressed the independent commission of Fraser Campbell, James Whetu, and chair Rob van Voorthuysen. Harris said work would begin at the site in October with landscaping and supporting infrastructure as well as wetland restoration. A 5.24ha area will be developed first and 2.21ha in the future. -LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
NZ Herald
6 days ago
- Business
- NZ Herald
Te Puna ‘in shock' as industrial park approved for wetland area
The company is half-owned by shipping container company ContainerCo. ContainerCo managing director Ken Harris said they planned to build 'very low-intensity, specialised businesses' at Te Puna Business Park. Plans included refrigeration engineering, workshop activities including container washing, and the company's sales office. The business park website said ContainerCo would hold a 'small supply' of up to 300 containers at the site. Priority Te Puna spokesperson Alison Cowley said the community was 'in shock and very depressed' about the decision. 'People took the assumption that it was so ridiculous that it was never going to happen.' Priority Te Puna spokesperson Alison Cowley. Photo / Alisha Evans There were safety concerns because of the increase in trucks and heavy vehicles on Te Puna Rd from the park, Cowley said. 'We feel that the impact on Te Puna Village and the Te Puna Rd corridor has not been in any way considered.' Cowley said the consent conditions were 'extremely stringent' so it was up to the council to ensure they were complied with. Concerned locals formed the incorporated society, Priority Te Puna in 2022. They were holding a public meeting about the consent approval on July 23 at 7pm at the Te Puna Memorial Hall. Harris said there had been a 'huge amount of misinformation' spread about the development, which was 'disappointing'. There were signs dotted around the settlement saying, 'Container Terminal, Te Puna Says No' and 'Wrong Business, Wrong Place, No Container Terminal'. Signs are dotted around Te Puna opposing the industrial park on Te Puna Station Road. Photo / John Borren There was no intention to build a container terminal or a container park of any scale, he said. 'This is a facility that will fit into the community and be good for the region.' The consent process was 'very thorough and rigorous', Harris said. The traffic plans were 'carefully considered' by experts and if people were concerned, they could call the company, he said. 'If traffic causes a problem people should talk to us and we will listen carefully and adjust plans as required.' ContainerCo managing director Ken Harris. Photo / Supplied Once fully developed, the site would generate 774 vehicle movements per day, with a peak of 125 vehicles an hour, according to the commission's decision report. It also said Western Bay of Plenty District Council had committed to upgrading the Te Puna Station Rd/Te Puna Rd intersection, with works set to start in October and finish late January. Harris said they would also be establishing community and mana whenua liaison groups. The land is culturally significant to Pirirakau hapū, who occupied the Pukewhanake Pā at the headland of the Te Hakao valley, and the wetland was once an important food source for them. The consents went through a lengthy process, including public submissions in 2023. Of the 273 submissions 271 were opposed, one was neutral, and one did not clearly state a position. At hearings in July 2024, 17 submitters addressed the independent commission of Fraser Campbell, James Whetu, and chair Rob van Voorthuysen. Harris said work would begin at the site in October with landscaping and supporting infrastructure as well as wetland restoration. A 5.24ha area will be developed first and 2.21ha in the future. - LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Cision Canada
03-07-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Avios Subscription Service Powered by Plusgrade, Unlocks Predictable Rewards for Finnair Plus Members Français
Finnair introduces Monthly and Annual subscription options for collecting Avios Plusgrade's loyalty business unit, Points, powers the service with first-of-its-kind capabilities The new Avios subscription model enhances member engagement and supports Finnair's loyalty growth MONTREAL, July 3, 2025 /CNW/ - Plusgrade, a global leader in ancillary revenue solutions, and Finnair, the flag carrier of Finland, are proud to announce the launch of a new Avios subscription service, a new way for Finnair Plus members to collect Avios. With flexible plans, a seamless checkout, and a set-and-forget experience, Finnair Plus members can now automatically grow their Avios balance every month—no extra steps required. A smarter approach to loyalty Finnair's new subscription service rethinks how members prepare for travel, offering a predictable, steady way to collect Avios. Whether travelers are saving for a dream trip or just want the reassurance of having loyalty currency ready when they need them, this model meets them where they are, financially and emotionally. With Monthly and Annual plans available, members can pick the plan that suits them and move toward their next reward with confidence. "Subscriptions offer a smarter way to travel better, sooner," said Ken Harris, Founder and CEO of Plusgrade. "They make it easier for people to get value from their loyalty program without overthinking it. We're excited to be expanding our partnership with Finnair to bring this product to their members—keeping it simple, flexible, and rewarding." Designed for Simplicity. Built for Loyalty. Finnair's Avios subscription service gives members an easy way to grow their Avios balance in a steady and predictable way—at the best available rate. Members can choose to pay monthly or opt for an annual plan to unlock additional savings. It's a simple, flexible model designed to help members plan for their next trip, upgrade, or tier level goal, on their own terms. "We're excited to offer our members an easy and flexible way to grow their Avios balance," said Pekka Antila, Head of Loyalty at Finnair. "This subscription model reflects our commitment to delivering everyday value and convenience through Finnair Plus. It is a natural extension of our loyalty offering, and we're pleased to build on our strong partnership with Plusgrade to make it happen." For more information about Finnair's Avios Subscription, visit this page. About Finnair Finnair is a network airline, specialising in connecting passenger and cargo traffic between Asia, North America and Europe. Finnair is the only airline with year-round direct flights to Lapland. Customers have chosen Finnair as the Best Airline in Northern Europe in the Skytrax Awards for 14 times in a row. Finnair is a member of the oneworld alliance. Finnair Plc's shares are quoted on Nasdaq Helsinki About Plusgrade Plusgrade powers the global travel industry with its portfolio of leading ancillary revenue solutions. Over 250 airline, hospitality, cruise, passenger rail, and financial services companies trust Plusgrade to create new, meaningful revenue streams through incredible customer experiences. As the ancillary revenue powerhouse, Plusgrade has generated billions of dollars in new revenue opportunities across its platform for its partners, while creating enhanced travel experiences for millions of their passengers and guests. Plusgrade was founded in 2009 with headquarters in Montreal and has offices around the world. For more information, visit
Cision Canada
10-06-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Plusgrade and ALL Accor, Accor's loyalty program, partner to expand loyalty rewards exchange for ALL Accor Members Français
ALL Accor members can exchange points from more new loyalty programs into Reward points — using Points, a Plusgrade company's industry-leading exchange solutions. Plusgrade continues to lead in hospitality ancillary revenue and loyalty innovation, delivering exceptional customer experiences and revenue growth for partners. MONTREAL, June 10, 2025 /CNW/ - Plusgrade, a global leader in ancillary revenue solutions for the travel industry, and ALL Accor, Accor's booking platform and loyalty program, are proud to announce a strategic partnership to introduce an enhanced loyalty exchange solution for members of ALL Accor. This partnership enables members to seamlessly convert points from other participating loyalty programs into Reward points, reinforcing ALL Accor's commitment towards its members and more recognition in loyalty. Transforming Loyalty Through Seamless Exchanges Loyalty members want more flexibility, simplicity and choice in how they use their points, and ALL Accor is making that a reality. With Plusgrade's industry-leading exchange technology, ALL Accor members can convert rewards earned from institutions such as Bilt, Capital One and Citi loyalty programs — into Reward points. Plusgrade's loyalty business unit, Points, which specializes in powering loyalty commerce for the world's leading travel brands, powers this solution. " Giving loyalty members more ways to use their rewards makes their programs even more valuable," said Ken Harris, Founder and CEO of Plusgrade." At Plusgrade, we are dedicated to helping travelers maximize their rewards while driving ancillary revenue for our partners. By working with Accor, we're bringing even greater flexibility and choice to ALL Accor members worldwide." Expanding Value for ALL Accor Members ALL Accor continues to redefine what it means to be rewarded and recognized, offering members a seamless and rewarding experience across its vast global network of 45 hotels brands and 110+ partners. Built on transparency, flexibility, and a clear, unchanging points scale, the program ensures members always know the value of their rewards. ALL Accor empowers its members to transform their rewards into meaningful and personalized experiences. Mehdi Hemici, Chief Loyalty & Ecommerce Officer, Accor comments: "Our partnership with Points, a Plusgrade company, is a key milestone for ALL Accor. It answers our members' desire for more than discounts by delivering unforgettable experiences. Leveraging Plusgrade's cutting-edge technology alongside ALL Accor's brand strength, we're creating innovative ways to recognize and reward our members while expanding value across industries and regions." A Commitment to Innovation and Growth This partnership is the latest example of ALL Accor and Plusgrade's commitment to delivering innovative loyalty solutions that enhance member engagement while driving revenue growth for partners. By integrating its expertise in travel loyalty and exchange solutions, Plusgrade is shaping the future of customer rewards and experiences. Plusgrade powers the global travel industry with its portfolio of leading ancillary revenue solutions. Over 250 airline, hospitality, cruise, passenger rail, and financial services companies trust Plusgrade to create new, meaningful revenue streams through incredible customer experiences. As the ancillary revenue powerhouse, Plusgrade has generated billions of dollars in new revenue opportunities across its platform for its partners, while creating enhanced travel experiences for millions of their passengers and guests. Plusgrade was founded in 2009 with headquarters in Montreal and has offices around the world. For more information, visit ALL Accor is a booking platform and loyalty program embodying the Accor promise during and beyond the hotel stay. Through the website and app, customers can access an unrivaled choice of stays from more than 45 Accor brands in 110 countries, always at the best price. The ALL Accor-loyalty program gives members access to a wide range of rewards, services and experiences, along with over 110 renowned partners. ALL Accor supports its members daily, enabling them to live their passions with over 7,000 events worldwide each year: local activities, chef masterclasses, major sports tournaments and the most eagerly awaited concerts. ALL Accor is the loyalty program preferred by travellers. Discover ALL Accor on SOURCE Plusgrade Inc.
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Plusgrade and ALL Accor, Accor's loyalty program, partner to expand loyalty rewards exchange for ALL Accor Members
ALL Accor members can exchange points from more new loyalty programs into Reward points — using Points, a Plusgrade company's industry-leading exchange solutions. Plusgrade continues to lead in hospitality ancillary revenue and loyalty innovation, delivering exceptional customer experiences and revenue growth for partners. MONTREAL, June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Plusgrade, a global leader in ancillary revenue solutions for the travel industry, and ALL Accor, Accor's booking platform and loyalty program, are proud to announce a strategic partnership to introduce an enhanced loyalty exchange solution for members of ALL Accor. This partnership enables members to seamlessly convert points from other participating loyalty programs into Reward points, reinforcing ALL Accor's commitment towards its members and more recognition in loyalty. Transforming Loyalty Through Seamless Exchanges Loyalty members want more flexibility, simplicity and choice in how they use their points, and ALL Accor is making that a reality. With Plusgrade's industry-leading exchange technology, ALL Accor members can convert rewards earned from institutions such as Bilt, Capital One and Citi loyalty programs — into Reward points. Plusgrade's loyalty business unit, Points, which specializes in powering loyalty commerce for the world's leading travel brands, powers this solution. "Giving loyalty members more ways to use their rewards makes their programs even more valuable," said Ken Harris, Founder and CEO of Plusgrade. "At Plusgrade, we are dedicated to helping travelers maximize their rewards while driving ancillary revenue for our partners. By working with Accor, we're bringing even greater flexibility and choice to ALL Accor members worldwide." Expanding Value for ALL Accor Members ALL Accor continues to redefine what it means to be rewarded and recognized, offering members a seamless and rewarding experience across its vast global network of 45 hotels brands and 110+ partners. Built on transparency, flexibility, and a clear, unchanging points scale, the program ensures members always know the value of their rewards. ALL Accor empowers its members to transform their rewards into meaningful and personalized experiences. Mehdi Hemici, Chief Loyalty & Ecommerce Officer, Accor comments: "Our partnership with Points, a Plusgrade company, is a key milestone for ALL Accor. It answers our members' desire for more than discounts by delivering unforgettable experiences. Leveraging Plusgrade's cutting-edge technology alongside ALL Accor's brand strength, we're creating innovative ways to recognize and reward our members while expanding value across industries and regions." A Commitment to Innovation and Growth This partnership is the latest example of ALL Accor and Plusgrade's commitment to delivering innovative loyalty solutions that enhance member engagement while driving revenue growth for partners. By integrating its expertise in travel loyalty and exchange solutions, Plusgrade is shaping the future of customer rewards and experiences. About Plusgrade Plusgrade powers the global travel industry with its portfolio of leading ancillary revenue solutions. Over 250 airline, hospitality, cruise, passenger rail, and financial services companies trust Plusgrade to create new, meaningful revenue streams through incredible customer experiences. As the ancillary revenue powerhouse, Plusgrade has generated billions of dollars in new revenue opportunities across its platform for its partners, while creating enhanced travel experiences for millions of their passengers and guests. Plusgrade was founded in 2009 with headquarters in Montreal and has offices around the world. For more information, visit About ALL Accor ALL Accor is a booking platform and loyalty program embodying the Accor promise during and beyond the hotel stay. Through the website and app, customers can access an unrivaled choice of stays from more than 45 Accor brands in 110 countries, always at the best price. The ALL Accor-loyalty program gives members access to a wide range of rewards, services and experiences, along with over 110 renowned partners. ALL Accor supports its members daily, enabling them to live their passions with over 7,000 events worldwide each year: local activities, chef masterclasses, major sports tournaments and the most eagerly awaited concerts. ALL Accor is the loyalty program preferred by travellers. Discover ALL Accor on View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Plusgrade Inc. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
