BSK Holdings Inc and Xebra Expand Partnership to Launch Elements Products in the United States
The move into the U.S. market represents a significant next step for the Elements brand, and an expansion into the largest hemp and CBD market in the world. BSK has a proven track record of building and scaling brands in the U.S. market which will allow Xebra to tap into an established network and infrastructure. BSK's proven online sales ecosystem, supported by an in-house team of digital marketers, operations specialists, fulfillment partners, manufacturing capabilities, and executives who have built some of the most successful CBD brands in the space and created over $100M in revenue across their brands over the last 5 years.
BSK's brands reach millions of consumers every year along with a strong track record in direct-to-consumer marketing, subscription-based sales, and national retail partnerships. Xebra aims to leverage this expertise, to develop a list of initial SKUs and products to launch into key regional markets where consumer interest in premium wellness CBD products continues to see strong demand. Over the coming fiscal quarter, BSKwill work with Xebra to identify key products, secure manufacturing and distribution partners, develop a market entry and launch plan, marketing strategy, US payment and banking partners, and assist Xebra to develop an E-commerce direct-to-consumer website for the Elements brand.
The U.S. CBD market remains one of the largest and most mature globally, with revenue exceeding USD $5 billion in 2024, and projected to grow at a CAGR of 15% through 2030. BSK plans to position Elements in both wellness and active lifestyle verticals, tapping into existing consumer segments familiar with CBD as part of their daily routines.
This move also signals continued alignment between Xebra and BSK as they work together to maximize the reach of the Elements brand across North America. While Xebra remains focused on leading the CBD market in Mexico, diversifying into the U.S, complements a broader vision to establish Elements as a trusted North-American CBD brand.
'We're incredibly encouraged by BSK's commitment to the Elements brand and their roadmap to scale it across the U.S.,' commented Rodrigo Gallardo, Interim CEO of Xebra Brands. 'This step represents continued momentum and validates our belief that Elements can compete and succeed in top-tier CBD markets.'
About Xebra Brands
Xebra Brands is a leading cannabis company dedicated to providing high-quality, innovative products to consumers worldwide. Xebra is a pioneer in the Mexican cannabis sector and the only company legally allowed to cultivate, manufacture, operate, and sell cannabis (-1% THC) in Mexico.
About BSK Holdings Inc.
BSK is a leading CBD company known for its top-selling Keoni and AMMA branded products in the U.S. market. With decades of industry experience and a proven track record of success, BSK is dedicated to providing high-quality CBD products through innovative e-commerce strategies.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD
Rodrigo Gallardo
Interim CEO
For more information, contact:
1 (888) XEBRA 88
[email protected]
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:
This news release contains certain 'forward-looking information' and 'forward-looking statements', as such terms are defined under applicable securities laws (collectively, 'forward-looking statements'). Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words and phrases such as 'plans', 'expects' ,"is expected', 'budget', 'scheduled,' 'estimates', 'forecasts', 'intends', 'anticipates' or 'believes' or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results 'may', 'could', 'would', 'might' or 'will' be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements herein include, but are not limited to, statements with respect Strategy 2025 and the Company's growth strategy into the CBD market, the roadmap to accelerate growth in the North American CBD market, the Company's expected growth pillars of Cultivation, Manufacturing and Retail and the planned business activities under each such pillar, that the Company is actively seeking to amend current provisions under the Company's Mexican cultivation licences that limit cultivation scale, the aim to collaborate with major agricultural institutions in Mexico for large-scale, low-cost outdoor cannabis cultivation, expectations with respect to the Company's legal proceedings in Mexico, including the results and timing thereof, the expectation that Chapingo University will initiate pilot projects once confined site approval is granted, the anticipation for the importation process the two CBD products, which were manufactured in partnership with Restorative Botanicals, to be completed by April 2025 and the expectation for launch shortly thereafter, the Company's plans for e-commerce partnerships with Amazon Mexico and Mercado Libre is Mexico and the intention to leveraging expertise from a major U.S. e-commerce partner for market expansion and that the Company is seeking partnerships with CBD brands and that such partnerships may expedite the Company's path to self-sustainability.
These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond Xebra's ability to predict or control and could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Specific reference is made to Xebra's most recent annual management discussion and analysis on file with certain Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities for a discussion of some of the factors underlying forward-looking statements, which include, without limitation, the inability of Xebra to retain the authorizations granted by COFEPRIS, the inability to successfully complete financings on terms acceptable to Xebra or at all, the inability to generate sufficient revenues or to raise sufficient funds to carry out its business plan; changes in government legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in various countries; risks associated with agriculture and cultivation activities generally, including inclement weather, access to supply of seeds, poor crop yields, and spoilage; compliance with import and export laws of various countries; significant fluctuations in cannabis prices and transportation costs; the risk of obtaining necessary licenses and permits; inability to identify, negotiate and complete potential acquisitions, dispositions or joint ventures for any reason; the ability to retain key employees; dependence on third parties for services and supplies; non-performance by contractual counter-parties; general economic conditions; the continued growth in global demand for cannabis products and the continued increase in jurisdictions legalizing cannabis; and the timely receipt of regulatory approvals for license applications on terms satisfactory to Xebra. In addition, there is no assurance Xebra will: be a low-cost producer or exporter; obtain a dominant market position in any jurisdiction; have products that will be unique. The foregoing list is not exhaustive and Xebra undertakes no obligation to update or revise any of the foregoing except as required by law. Many of these uncertainties and contingencies could affect Xebra's actual performance and cause its actual performance to differ materially from what has been expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, Xebra. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and readers should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those set out in such statements.

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Time Business News
an hour ago
- Time Business News
Roll-Off Containers: Statistics and Trends in Waste Management
The landscape of waste management is continually evolving, driven by urbanization, industrial growth, and increasingly stringent environmental regulations. At the forefront of this evolution are roll-off containers, the backbone of efficient waste collection and disposal across various sectors. Understanding the statistics and trends shaping this market is crucial for businesses, municipalities, and individuals involved in waste management. This comprehensive guide provides a deep dive into the current market size, future projections, key drivers, and strategic insights within the roll-off container industry. We will explore the economic forces at play, the role of technological advancements like AI, and the best practices adopted by leading companies to navigate this dynamic sector. The roll-off container market is a significant component of the broader waste management industry, demonstrating robust growth driven by global waste generation and infrastructure development. Accurate market sizing and forecasting are essential for strategic planning and investment. The global roll-off container market was valued at approximately USD 4.5 billion in 2024. Projections indicate a substantial increase, with the market expected to reach USD 7.2 billion by 2033. This growth translates to a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.6% from 2026 to 2033, according to Verified Market Reports. This robust expansion underscores the critical role these containers play in modern waste management systems. While the roll-off container market itself is thriving, it's important to consider closely related segments that contribute to its overall ecosystem. The roll-off dumpster market, for instance, was valued at USD 4.02 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 6.15 billion by 2033, growing at a 5.1% CAGR from 2026 to 2033, as reported by Verified Market Reports. Another estimate places the roll-off dumpster market at USD 2.5 billion in 2025, with an expected rise to USD 4.3 billion by 2033 at a 7% CAGR from 2025 to 2033, according to HTF Market Insights. The broader dumpster rental market, which encompasses roll-off containers, was approximately USD 4.8 billion in 2023 and is forecast to reach USD 7.2 billion by 2033, growing at a 4.2% CAGR from 2025 to 2033, as per Datahorizon Research. The slight variations in market size and CAGR figures across different reports underscore the importance of understanding market divergence. Some reports focus exclusively on the manufacturing of the containers, while others include rental services or broader waste management solutions. Regardless of these definitional differences, the overarching trend points to consistent and significant growth across all segments related to roll-off containers. Market Segment 2024/2025 Value (USD Billion) Forecast Year Forecast Value (USD Billion) CAGR (%) Source Roll-Off Container Market 4.5 (2024) 2033 7.2 6.6 (2026-2033) Verified Market Reports Roll-Off Dumpster Market 4.02 (2024) 2033 6.15 5.1 (2026-2033) Verified Market Reports Roll-Off Dumpster Market* 2.5 (2025) 2033 4.3 7.0 (2025-2033) HTF Market Insights Dumpster Rental Market 4.8 (2023) 2033 7.2 4.2 (2025-2033) Data Horizon Research The sustained growth of the roll-off container market is not accidental; several powerful macroeconomic and regulatory forces propel it. Understanding these drivers is key to anticipating future market demands and opportunities. One of the primary drivers is the ever-increasing volume of waste generated globally, particularly in urban centers. As populations grow and urban areas expand, so does the demand for efficient waste management solutions. For example, total waste generated in the US was about 292.4 million tons in 2018, according to EPA data, a statistic cited by Verified Market Reports. This includes municipal solid waste, construction and demolition debris, and industrial waste, all of which often require roll-off containers for collection and transport. The demand for roll-off containers is robust across multiple sectors. The construction and demolition industries are major consumers, requiring containers for debris removal from building sites, renovations, and demolitions. Residential and commercial sectors also contribute significantly, needing containers for large cleanouts, landscaping projects, and ongoing waste management. The manufacturing and logistics sectors utilize them for industrial waste and material handling. Even the healthcare sector relies on specialized roll-off containers for the disposal of non-hazardous waste materials. Rising environmental regulations and a global emphasis on recycling and sustainable waste practices are significantly boosting the demand for roll-off containers. Governments worldwide are implementing stricter rules for waste segregation, disposal, and recycling, which necessitate specialized containers. This regulatory push encourages businesses and individuals to properly manage their waste, often through the use of rented roll-off containers. For instance, the need for separate containers for construction waste, recyclables, and general debris is becoming more common, driving demand for diversified container types. What are the primary drivers? Waste generation is increasing due to urbanization and population growth. Robust demand from construction, demolition, residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Growing environmental regulations and a focus on recycling. Why are environmental regulations necessary? They mandate proper waste segregation, increasing the need for specialized containers. They promote recycling, leading to demand for containers dedicated to specific material streams. They push for responsible waste disposal, making roll-off containers an essential tool for compliance. The roll-off container market is characterized by the presence of several large, established players who have honed strategies for market dominance and sustained growth. Their approaches offer valuable insights into successful operations within this sector. The market is dominated by a few key players who have built extensive networks and diversified service offerings, significantly influencing the market. These companies leverage their scale and expertise to meet the varied demands of the waste management industry. According to HTF Market Insights, leading companies include: Waste Management (USA): A giant in the industry, offering comprehensive waste collection, disposal, and recycling services. A giant in the industry, offering comprehensive waste collection, disposal, and recycling services. Republic Services (USA): Another major player providing environmental services, including solid waste collection, transfer, recycling, and disposal. Another major player providing environmental services, including solid waste collection, transfer, recycling, and disposal. Clean Harbors (USA): Specializing in environmental, energy, and industrial services, including hazardous waste management. Specializing in environmental, energy, and industrial services, including hazardous waste management. Veolia (France): A global leader in optimized resource management, offering water, waste, and energy solutions. A global leader in optimized resource management, offering water, waste, and energy solutions. Stericycle (USA): Focused on regulated waste management and compliance services, particularly for healthcare. Focused on regulated waste management and compliance services, particularly for healthcare. Casella Waste Systems (USA): Providing solid waste management services, including collection, transfer, disposal, and recycling. Providing solid waste management services, including collection, transfer, disposal, and recycling. GFL Environmental (Canada): A diversified environmental services company offering solid waste management, infrastructure, and soil remediation. A diversified environmental services company offering solid waste management, infrastructure, and soil remediation. Rumpke Waste & Recycling (USA): A family-owned business providing residential and commercial waste and recycling services. A family-owned business providing residential and commercial waste and recycling services. Biffa (UK): A leading UK-based waste management company. A leading UK-based waste management company. SUEZ (France): Another global player in water and waste management. Another global player in water and waste management. Remondis (Germany): One of the world's largest water and environmental service companies. One of the world's largest water and environmental service companies. Cleanaway (Australia): Australia's leading waste management company. These market leaders employ a range of strategies to maintain their competitive edge and expand their market share. Their success often hinges on a combination of technological adoption, service diversification, and strategic partnerships. For example, companies like Wastequip and Consolidated Fabricators are pioneering advancements in container design, focusing on durability, lightweight materials, and enhanced safety features, which are key drivers for market growth, as noted by Verified Market Reports. This focus on product innovation directly contributes to operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Furthermore, these companies leverage technological innovation, customized waste solutions, and strategic partnerships to meet evolving customer and regulatory demands. Their ability to offer a wide array of container sizes and specialized services allows them to cater to diverse client needs, from small residential projects to large-scale industrial operations. This comprehensive approach ensures they remain at the forefront of the industry. The waste management industry, including the roll-off container segment, is increasingly embracing technology to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service delivery. Artificial intelligence (AI) and related digital tools are playing a transformative role. AI technology is revolutionizing how roll-off container businesses operate. From optimizing routes to predicting demand, AI technology solutions are enabling companies to achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency. For instance, AI-driven scheduling and route optimization tools automate dumpster deployments and pickups, significantly reducing operational costs and increasing service capacity. An expert summary on starting roll-off dumpster businesses highlights that with a projected 6% annual growth in the dumpster rental industry, 'leveraging AI tools for automation is critical for operational efficiency and scaling your business in a competitive market,' as stated by Several AI technology trends are emerging within the roll-off container sector: Route Optimization: AI algorithms analyze traffic patterns, road conditions, and container fill levels to create the most efficient collection and delivery routes, minimizing fuel consumption and driver hours. Predictive Maintenance: AI technology solutions can predict when containers or trucks might need maintenance based on usage data, preventing costly breakdowns and extending asset lifespan. Demand Forecasting: By analyzing historical data, seasonal trends, and local events, AI can accurately forecast demand for various container sizes, allowing companies to optimize their inventory and deployment. Automated Billing and Customer Service: AI-powered chatbots and automated systems can handle routine customer inquiries and billing processes, freeing up human staff for more complex tasks. Implementing AI technology best practices is crucial for maximizing its benefits. This includes ensuring data quality, integrating AI tools seamlessly with existing systems, and providing adequate staff training. Companies that successfully adopt AI technology strategies often see improvements in their bottom line and customer satisfaction. For example, Waste Management and Republic Services are investing in digital platforms that integrate AI for better fleet management and customer interaction, showcasing the practical application of AI technology solutions in large-scale operations. How to leverage AI technology? Implement AI for route optimization and scheduling. Utilize AI for predictive maintenance of assets. Employ AI for accurate demand forecasting. Automate customer service and billing with AI. What are the benefits of AI technology? Reduced operational costs (fuel, labor). Increased service capacity and efficiency. Improved asset utilization and lifespan. Enhanced customer satisfaction through faster service. Roll-off containers come in various sizes and configurations, designed to accommodate different types of waste and project scales. Understanding these variations is essential for both providers and users to ensure efficient waste management. Roll-off containers are typically measured in cubic yards, indicating their volume capacity. The most common sizes range from 10 to 40 cubic yards, each suited for specific applications. For a breakdown of available dumpster sizes, rental periods, and usage scenarios, this roll-off dumpster service guide offers a practical overview. 10-Yard Container: Ideal for small-scale projects like garage cleanouts, minor renovations, or landscaping debris. Roughly equivalent to 3 pickup truck loads. Ideal for small-scale projects like garage cleanouts, minor renovations, or landscaping debris. Roughly equivalent to 3 pickup truck loads. 20-Yard Container: A versatile option for medium-sized projects such as roofing tear-offs, deck removals, or larger home cleanouts. Holds about 6 pickup truck loads. A versatile option for medium-sized projects such as roofing tear-offs, deck removals, or larger home cleanouts. Holds about 6 pickup truck loads. 30-Yard Container: Frequently used for significant home additions, commercial cleanouts, or large construction debris. Can hold around 9 pickup truck loads. Frequently used for significant home additions, commercial cleanouts, or large construction debris. Can hold around 9 pickup truck loads. 40-Yard Container: The largest standard size, perfect for major construction and demolition projects, large commercial cleanouts, or industrial waste. Accommodates approximately 12 pickup truck loads. Efficient allocation of container sizes matched to specific project waste volumes has proven key to maximizing turnover and revenue while minimizing idle container time, as highlighted in market reports like Market Research Future. Beyond size, roll-off containers also vary in their construction materials and design features. Most are made from durable steel, but some specialized containers might use aluminum or even plastic for specific applications. Design variations include: Open-Top Containers: The most common type, with an open top for effortless loading of debris. The most common type, with an open top for effortless loading of debris. Compactor-Ready Containers: Designed to connect to waste compactors, allowing for a higher volume of waste to be stored. Designed to connect to waste compactors, allowing for a higher volume of waste to be stored. Sealed Containers: Used for liquid waste or materials that need to be contained to prevent leaks or odors. Used for liquid waste or materials that need to be contained to prevent leaks or odors. Recycling Containers: Often color-coded or designed explicitly for single-stream or segregated recycling materials. These multiple container types by load capacity and material (steel, aluminum, plastic) are used across sectors such as construction, manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare, according to Market Research Future's graph below: The versatility of roll-off containers makes them indispensable across a wide range of industries: Construction & Demolition: For disposing of concrete, wood, drywall, metal, and other building materials. Residential: For home renovations, spring cleaning, yard waste removal, and moving cleanouts. Commercial: For retail store cleanouts, office renovations, and ongoing waste management for businesses. Industrial: For manufacturing waste, scrap metal, and other industrial byproducts. Event Management: For waste collection at significant public events, festivals, and concerts. The roll-off container market presents significant opportunities for growth, particularly when considering regional dynamics and strategic expansion. Understanding where and how to grow is crucial for businesses in this sector. North America, particularly the United States, currently holds a dominant position in the global roll-off container market. This dominance is attributed to high waste generation rates, robust construction activity, and well-established waste management infrastructure. However, the Asia-Pacific region is identified as the fastest-growing regional market. This reflects ongoing industrialization, rapid urbanization, and increasing infrastructure development in countries like China and India, which are generating substantial volumes of waste and driving demand for efficient disposal solutions, as noted by Datahorizzon Research and HTF Market Insights. Companies looking to capitalize on these growth opportunities often employ specific strategies: Targeting Fast-Growing Regions: Focusing investment and expansion efforts on areas like Asia-Pacific, where infrastructure growth is rapid and waste management needs are escalating. Focusing investment and expansion efforts on areas like Asia-Pacific, where infrastructure growth is rapid and waste management needs are escalating. Consolidating in Mature Markets: In established markets like North America and Europe, growth often comes through mergers and acquisitions, allowing companies to expand their service areas and customer bases. In established markets like North America and Europe, growth often comes through mergers and acquisitions, allowing companies to expand their service areas and customer bases. Adapting to Local Regulations: Understanding and complying with diverse local and national waste management regulations is critical for successful market entry and operation in new regions. Beyond geographic expansion, market penetration strategies involve diversifying product and service offerings. This includes offering variable container sizes and specialized containers for recycling, industrial, and municipal waste. This approach addresses diverse client needs and increases market penetration, as discussed by Verified Market Reports and Market Research Future. Image Source: Verified Market Reports. For example, Waste Management and Republic Services have reported continued year-on-year growth of approximately 7% in market share by expanding customized container sizes (10-40 yards) and focusing on high-demand sectors like construction, industrial waste, and event cleanup, according to Market Research Future. Furthermore, a focus on sustainability by integrating recyclable-friendly container designs and partnering with responsible waste processing firms enhances brand reputation and customer retention, aligning with global environmental goals, as noted by Verified Market Reports. Maximizing profitability in the roll-off container business hinges on optimizing operational efficiency and implementing effective revenue generation strategies. This involves smart resource allocation, customer-centric approaches, and leveraging technology. The U.S. roll-off dumpster market, with 232 companies, averages rental rates between $280 – $663 per week, indicating significant revenue potential for efficient operators, according to Datahorizon Research. Pricing strategies often vary based on container size, rental duration, type of waste, and geographic location. Transparent pricing models, including clear explanations of weight limits and potential overage fees, build customer trust and prevent disputes. Key elements of effective pricing include: Tiered Pricing: Offering different rates for various container sizes and rental periods. Offering different rates for various container sizes and rental periods. Weight-Based Fees: Charging additional fees for waste exceeding a specified weight limit to cover disposal costs. Charging additional fees for waste exceeding a specified weight limit to cover disposal costs. Delivery and Pickup Fees: Separately itemizing transportation costs. Separately itemizing transportation costs. Environmental Surcharges: Covering costs associated with responsible waste disposal and recycling. Providing flexible rental periods, on-demand container delivery, and transparent pricing attracts varied customer segments, from homeowners to large construction firms, as highlighted by Datahorizon Research. A strong focus on customer service, including timely delivery and pickup, clear communication, and responsive support, is paramount for customer retention and positive word-of-mouth referrals. Examples of customer-centric approaches: Flexible Scheduling: Allowing customers to choose specific delivery and pickup times that suit their project timelines. Online Booking Systems: Providing convenient digital platforms for customers to book, manage, and pay for rentals. Dedicated Account Managers: For large commercial or industrial clients, assigning a single point of contact to streamline communication and service. Waste Audits: Offering consultation services to help clients determine the most appropriate container sizes and waste segregation strategies for their needs. Efficient allocation of container sizes matched to specific project waste volumes has proven key to maximizing turnover and revenue while minimizing idle container time, as mentioned by Market Research Future. This involves robust inventory management systems, often supported by AI technology solutions, to track container locations, availability, and usage patterns. Quick turnaround times between rentals ensure that containers are generating revenue rather than sitting idle. How to optimize revenue? Implement transparent and competitive pricing models. Focus on customer satisfaction through flexible and responsive service. Maximize container turnover and minimize idle time. Leverage technology for efficient scheduling and inventory management. What are key success metrics? Average weekly rental rates. Container utilization rates. Customer retention rates. Operational cost per container. The roll-off container market is a dynamic and essential component of the global waste management industry, poised for significant growth in the coming decade. Driven by increasing waste generation, urbanization, and evolving environmental regulations, the demand for efficient and versatile waste disposal solutions continues to rise. The integration of AI technology and strategic operational optimizations is not just a trend but a critical imperative for businesses seeking to thrive in this competitive landscape. From understanding market size and growth projections to leveraging technological innovations and adopting customer-centric strategies, the insights presented here underscore the robust opportunities within this sector. As waste volumes continue to grow worldwide, roll-off containers will remain indispensable tools, and companies that prioritize efficiency, sustainability, and technological advancement will be best positioned for long-term success. TIME BUSINESS NEWS


Los Angeles Times
3 hours ago
- Los Angeles Times
A brewery, a rooftop lounge, a fried chicken spot. Closures rattle downtown L.A. again
Tokyo Fried Chicken has closed its doors in downtown. And a buzzy Mexican rooftop lounge along with a legacy L.A. brewery in the area said they would do the same, the latest in a string of businesses abandoning the city's core. Founded in 2013 in a Monterey Park shopping center before moving to a location in downtown L.A. in 2023, Tokyo Fried Chicken is known for its fried chicken and sides that borrow inspiration from Southern and Japanese cuisines. The fast-casual diner, which marinates its chicken in soy sauce, ginger and garlic, has been ranked on The Times annual 101 Best Restaurants in L.A. guide two years running. The company announced its last day of service, Aug. 10, in an Instagram post with less than a week's notice. When the day came, an hours-long line wrapped outside the building, with another hour wait for the piping hot chicken to arrive to the table once seated. 'It was so amazing to see the turnout and all the love people have for the brand and for the food,' said Elaine Yamanashi, who co-owns the business with her husband and chef, Kouji Yamanashi. 'That is what has kept us going every day.' Elaine Yamanashi emphasized that the original plan was for the Olive Street location to be an expansion from the Monterey Park location, where she said many customers made the fried chicken joint part of their weekly routine. Ultimately, with construction and permitting delays downtown — they signed a lease mere months before the pandemic started — coupled with staffing shortages in Monterey Park, the couple decided to go all in on launching the downtown location before resuming service in Monterey Park. 'Could we even run both at the same time? We didn't think we could,' Yamanashi said. The downtown location had its perks: the Yamanashis' ultra-crispy chicken found a broader clientele, and a larger kitchen allowed for increased service hours. But the pandemic had also changed customer eating habits. 'We built our place for people to sit down and dine, but the majority of our food was being taken out,' said Yamanashi. A lack of parking and outdoor dining patio also led to decreased visibility in that location. Tokyo Fried Chicken is also a victim of broader industry challenges, including a downturn in business following the writers' and actors strikes, the Palisades and Eaton fires and most recently, immigration raids and protests that scared diners away from downtown. 'By last October, people were starting to come out again and it was better,' Yamanashi said. 'Then most of this year has been filled with very challenging issues along with increased costs along with slim margins.' 'The things that were happening in the larger economy made us feel like, 'Oh man, we should scale back so we don't have to break ourselves to make it,'' she added. Fans of the restaurant are in mourning, with many on Instagram saying they've followed the restaurant since its days in the San Gabriel Valley. But Yamanashi isn't saying the concept is gone forever. 'We're taking this time, not off, but to reflect,' she said. 'If we come back, we intend to come back intentionally and strategically to be able to survive long term in whatever location we find.' The sister restaurant to Mexico City-based Grupo Palmares' open-air hit Terraza Cha Cha Chá, LA Cha Cha Chá is known for its tacos, strong margaritas and stylish rooftop in the Arts District designed by architect Lena Kohl. The lush two-story space weathered the pandemic, writers' strike and January fires, but co-owner Alejandro Marín blames recent ICE raids and ensuing protests in downtown L.A. for a significant drop in customers. 'After June, it seemed like everyone was avoiding downtown, and we don't see tourists anymore,' Marín told Eater LA, adding his team expected to remain open for 'a couple of months, maybe three' before closing permanently. The group is also behind L.A. restaurants Loreto and Za Za Zá in Frogtown and Santa Canela in Highland Park. LA Cha Cha Chá, 812 E. Third St., Los Angeles, CA, 90013. Angel City Brewery recently announced it is slated to close at the termination of its lease in April 2026, according to a statement from its parent company Boston Beer Co., best known for its Samuel Adams brand. Its on-site sister taproom Truly LA, which serves the brand's hard seltzer, will only provide Friday and Saturday service by the end of the year, with the area converting to overflow and rental space. 'Our coworkers are our top priority, and we're making this move gradually to give our people the opportunity to do what's best for them,' said the statement. 'The goal is to absorb as many Truly LA coworkers as possible into our Angel City Brewery team for the duration of the lease and avoid a significant impact to coworker shifts.' Angel City Brewery was founded in 1997 by Michael Bowe in Culver City before moving to its current location, a three-story 1913 John A. Roebling building on the corner of Alameda Street and Traction Avenue, in 2011. Boston Beer acquired the company in 2012 and completely overhauled the menu during a boom in L.A.'s craft beer industry. Now, the company says, 'the brand no longer lines up with our long-term growth strategy,' adding that its focus is 'growing our core, national brands.' However, the company notes that the brewery has been 'doing well' and is earnestly looking for a buyer. 'We believe there is potential for this brand to succeed outside of Boston Beer as a strong local offering, and we'll be putting significant efforts behind selling Angel City so the brand can continue to live on,' said the statement. The company confirmed it has no plans to close its other taprooms. Angel City Brewery, 216 S. Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA 90012, (213) 622-1261
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Cotton Eases Back Lower on Thursday
Cotton futures closed the Thursday session with contracts down 5 to 10 points in the nearbys, as October was down 24 points on thin trade. The US dollar index was back down $0.383 to $98.045, as crude oil futures were down another $1.31. USDA's Export Sales report showed a total of 241,982 RB of cotton sold in the week of 8/7. The top buyer was Vietnam of 119,200 RB, with 40,200 RB sold to Bangladesh and 20,700 RB to Turkey. Actual shipments were 142,593 RB in the first week of the MY. The top destination was Vietnam of 34,800 RB with 26,200 RB to Pakistan and 19,300 RB to Turkey. More News from Barchart Coffee Prices Rally on Light Frost in Brazil and Drop in Brazilian Robusta Exports Coffee Prices Rally on Light Frost in Brazil Cocoa Prices Fall Back After Recent Rally on Dry West African Weather Our exclusive Barchart Brief newsletter is your FREE midday guide to what's moving stocks, sectors, and investor sentiment - delivered right when you need the info most. Subscribe today! The Seam reported 353 bales sold on the Wednesday online auction at an average price of 60.73 cents/lb. The Cotlook A Index was back up 175 points at 79.95 cents on August 13. ICE cotton stocks were steady on 8/13, with the certified stocks level at 18,242 bales. USDA's Adjusted World Price (AWP) was back up 66 points on last week at 55.05 cents/lb. Oct 25 Cotton closed at 66.17, down 24 points, Dec 25 Cotton closed at 67.68, down 5 points, Mar 26 Cotton closed at 69.25, down 7 points On the date of publication, Austin Schroeder did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Sign in to access your portfolio