Latest news with #FBA
Business Wire
16 hours ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Fiber Broadband Association Membership Surges as Industry Investment Accelerates
NASHVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today at , the Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) announced accelerated growth throughout its organization, including membership, working groups, and events. As public and private investment in fiber broadband increases, FBA provides the advocacy, research, tools, and opportunities the industry needs to accelerate fiber network deployments across North America. FBA supports the entire fiber broadband ecosystem, from network operators to technology innovators. The industry is investing significantly in fiber to ensure all Americans are connected and FBA is a lifeline to ensure they have the right resources and knowledge to get the job done right the first time. Its membership in North America has grown 178% in the last five years—hitting nearly 20% growth in 2025 alone and reaching 625 member companies in May 2025. More network operators have joined FBA than ever before, currently representing 45% of its membership. 'As historic investments flow into fiber broadband, the need for trusted collaboration, education, and best practices has never been greater,' said Jennifer Vassil, Vice President, Membership, Fiber Broadband Association. 'The rapid growth of our membership demonstrates the fact that FBA is a critical partner to those delivering reliable, high-quality connectivity to communities across North America. We're honored to support and amplify this momentum.' In addition to membership growth, FBA has experienced an uptick in engagement as well with 1,450 employees from member companies contributing to FBA committees and working groups. FBA North America now has 19 committees, roundtables, and working groups that are focused on developing and publishing studies and industry best practices. Four new working groups were added this year, including the AI & Machine Learning Working Group, Membership Working Group, Middle Mile Working Group, and the Canadian Working Group. To support its rapid growth, FBA added nearly 40% more staff over the past two years and has grown its events series to include more Regional Fiber Connect workshops, policy-focused events in Washington, D.C., and member meet ups. FBA members can also participate in the FBA Community, an online forum for knowledge and resource-sharing. To learn more about FBA membership, visit the FBA website or subscribe to FBA's Fiber Forward Weekly newsletter here to stay updated on FBA news and more. About the Fiber Broadband Association The Fiber Broadband Association is the largest and only trade association that represents the complete fiber ecosystem of service providers, manufacturers, industry experts, and deployment specialists dedicated to the advancement of fiber broadband deployment and the pursuit of a world where communications are limitless, advancing quality of life and digital equity anywhere and everywhere. The Fiber Broadband Association helps providers, communities, and policymakers make informed decisions about how, where, and why to build better fiber broadband networks. Since 2001, these companies, organizations, and members have worked with communities and consumers in mind to build the critical infrastructure that provides the economic and societal benefits that only fiber can deliver. The Fiber Broadband Association is part of the Fibre Council Global Alliance, which is a platform of six global FTTH Councils in North America, LATAM, Europe, MEA, APAC, and South Africa. Learn more at
Business Wire
16 hours ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Fiber Broadband Association Marks Industry Investment in U.S. Manufacturing
NASHVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today at , the Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) released data that shows the positive potential of NTIA BEAD (Broadband Equity Access and Deployment) broadband infrastructure funding program, reflected through its members' investment response to comply with Build America, Buy America (BABA) for the program. A number of FBA's BABA-compliant members reported nearly $650 million of investments to bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. and 5,600 new jobs created to date. This effort has led to an additional 1,325,000 square feet of manufacturing capacity added with either new manufacturing facilities being built and/or expanded over the past two years -- representing 72+ manufacturing facilities across 28 states. Fiber is the primary network technology required by the BEAD Program to comply with BABA. "The fiber broadband industry creates thousands of jobs and contributes billions of dollars to the American economy. The BEAD program has catalyzed FBA members to onshore fiber manufacturing investment and jobs. The continuation of BEAD funding is critical for closing the digital divide, preserving good jobs, stimulating the economy, and maintaining American leadership," said Marissa Mitrovich, Vice President of Public Policy, Fiber Broadband Association. The Buy America Preference applies to BEAD funded infrastructure projects. In a February 2024 Notice of Final Waiver, the Department of Commerce (DOC) issued a limited waiver for certain construction materials and manufactured products used in BEAD funded projects. For instance, DOC found that all optic glass used in manufacturing fiber and fiber optic cable must be BABA compliant, although it provided a waiver for non-optic-glass inputs to the optical fiber pre-form process, and that key fiber transmission electronics needed to be manufactured in the U.S., although it waived the 55 percent cost of components requirement needed. The BEAD BABA Waiver is available at 'The amount of time, effort, commitment, and training required to bring these jobs back to the U.S. cannot be understated, nor should the value these jobs and facilities are having on the communities that will benefit from this new capacity,' said Anis Khemakhem, Chief Marketing Officer, Clearfield. 'The BABA commitment reaches every level of the companies involved, permeating the supply chain and demanding focused organizational alignment. The investment spans from soft costs, such as training, to hard costs, such as product tooling.' Stay updated by subscribing to the Fiber Broadband Association's weekly newsletter here. About the Fiber Broadband Association The Fiber Broadband Association is the largest and only trade association that represents the complete fiber ecosystem of service providers, manufacturers, industry experts, and deployment specialists dedicated to the advancement of fiber broadband deployment and the pursuit of a world where communications are limitless, advancing quality of life and digital equity anywhere and everywhere. The Fiber Broadband Association helps providers, communities, and policy makers make informed decisions about how, where, and why to build better fiber broadband networks. Since 2001, these companies, organizations, and members have worked with communities and consumers in mind to build the critical infrastructure that provides the economic and societal benefits that only fiber can deliver. The Fiber Broadband Association is part of the Fibre Council Global Alliance, which is a platform of six global FTTH Councils in North America, LATAM, Europe, MEA, APAC, and South Africa. Learn more at
Business Wire
16 hours ago
- Business
- Business Wire
New ThoughtWaves Documentary Explores the Untold Story of the Brilliant Minds, Breakthroughs, and Politics of Human Connection
NASHVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today at Fiber Connect 2025, the Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) announced an exclusive first look of a new documentary, ThoughtWaves. The film interviews the most pivotal figures who created and shaped the modern, digital economy. It explores a story that began over fifty years ago, highlighting the stories of the brilliant minds, visionaries, and thought leaders across the areas of broadband policy, innovation, and adoption. Most importantly, it underscores the original intent of these founders and creators as we, today, work to connect every community to reliable broadband and grant everyone access to unlimited possibilities and opportunities. " ThoughtWaves is the story of how we connect everyone to a better future, in a world where access to the digital economy is synonymous with opportunity. To secure our nation's success, it is necessary to invest in robust broadband infrastructure. Fiber is the only technology that can support the capacity needed today and the future of connectivity,' said Gary Bolton, President and CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association. 'This is the story of the impact we are having on the communities and people we serve, a story that is just now being told, and we are excited to see how it continues to evolve as everyone is afforded the same access to opportunity and hope.' The documentary traces the journey from the inception of the internet and the development of fiber optics to the current efforts aimed at bridging the digital divide. It showcases the conversations, conflicts, challenges, and brilliant minds that made closing the digital divide possible. It frames the critical role in ensuring equitable access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and technological advancements means to everyone, everywhere. Viewers will enjoy insights from industry pioneers, policymakers, and technologists, including: Vint Cerf, 'Father of the Internet' and VP and Chief Internet Evangelist at Google Laura Breeden, early internet activist, Founding Director of the Federation of American Research Networks (FARnet), Founding Director of the NTIA's Telecommunications and Information Infrastructure Assistance Program, and Co-Founder of the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) Jean Armour Polly, 'Mother of the Internet,' early internet evangelist, known for her contributions welcoming nontechnical users to the internet and the first library to connect her library to the internet to provide community access Ajit Pai, former Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission Andy Berke, former Mayor of Chattanooga, the first Gig City Larry Irving, former head the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications Infrastructure Administration, key architect of internet policy including the 1996 Telecommunications Act to connect schools, first African American in the Internet Hall of Fame Dr. Karen Rheuban, Co-founder and Director of the UVA Center for Telehealth Teddy Bekele, Chief Technology Officer, Land-o-Lakes Blair Levin, former Chief of Staff for FCC Chairman Reed Hunt, Author of the National Broadband Plan The Honorable Juandieago Wade, Mayor of Charlottesville Dr. Tamarah Holmes, Director, Office of Broadband, Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development Kathryn de Wit, Project Director, Broadband Access Initiative, The Pew Charitable Trusts Joseph Wender, former Director of the Capital Projects Fund at the U.S. Treasury Department Shane Seibel, Executive Director of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe Growth Fund Kirk Lougheed, Cisco Fellow Dr. Christopher Ali, Pioneers Chair, Professor of Telecommunications, Penn State University, Author of Farm Fresh Broadband The documentary will have a private screening at Fiber Connect 2025 on June 2nd, providing attendees with a unique opportunity to engage with the film's themes and contributors. ThoughtWaves was developed in partnership with Cisco, Corning, Nokia, Bonfire, EPB, and GFiber. For more information about ThoughtWaves and to view trailers, visit About the Fiber Broadband Association The Fiber Broadband Association is the largest and only trade association that represents the complete fiber ecosystem of service providers, manufacturers, industry experts, and deployment specialists dedicated to the advancement of fiber broadband deployment and the pursuit of a world where communications are limitless, advancing quality of life and digital equity anywhere and everywhere. The Fiber Broadband Association helps providers, communities, and policymakers make informed decisions about how, where, and why to build better fiber broadband networks. Since 2001, these companies, organizations, and members have worked with communities and consumers in mind to build the critical infrastructure that provides the economic and societal benefits that only fiber can deliver. The Fiber Broadband Association is part of the Fibre Council Global Alliance, which is a platform of six global FTTH Councils in North America, LATAM, Europe, MEA, APAC, and South Africa. Learn more at
Time Business News
3 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
What Are Amazon Selling Fees? A UK-Based Agency's Guide to Smarter Selling
Selling on Amazon may seem like a straightforward path to eCommerce success, but understanding the platform's fee structure is where many sellers hit a wall. Whether you're just starting or scaling your operations, working with a trusted UK-based Amazon agency can make all the difference in how you navigate the cost landscape and maintain long-term profitability. This guide breaks down Amazon's key selling fees and shows you how to make smarter decisions with the help of experienced professionals. Amazon's selling fees vary depending on your business model (e.g., individual vs. professional), product categories, and fulfilment methods. While the platform offers immense reach, it comes at a cost, and those costs can quickly eat into your margins if you're not careful. Generally, Amazon sellers need to be aware of the following types of fees: Referral Fees Subscription Fees Fulfilment Fees Storage Fees Optional Service Fees Let's explore what each of these entails. Amazon charges a referral fee on each product sold, which is a percentage of the total sales price (including shipping and any gift wrap charges). This percentage depends on the product category—ranging from 6% to 45%. For example, electronics might incur a 7% fee, while apparel could go up to 17%. It's essential to review your category rates regularly, as they're subject to change and can impact pricing strategy. Amazon offers two selling plans: Individual Plan : No monthly fee, but Amazon charges £0.75 per item sold. : No monthly fee, but Amazon charges £0.75 per item sold. Professional Plan: Costs £25/month (excl. VAT), with no per-item fee. If you're selling more than 35 items a month, the Professional Plan is more cost-effective. It also unlocks advanced features like bulk listings and access to Amazon Ads. Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA) lets you store products in Amazon's warehouses, and they handle picking, packing, shipping, and customer service. While convenient, FBA comes with fulfilment fees based on product size and weight. Alternatively, Fulfilment by Merchant (FBM) allows sellers to handle fulfilment themselves, avoiding FBA fees but requiring more hands-on management. For FBA sellers, storage fees apply based on how long inventory remains in Amazon warehouses. The fees are charged monthly and increase significantly for inventory held longer than 365 days. Careful inventory management is crucial to avoid unnecessary long-term storage costs and maintain healthy profit margins. Other fees may include: Returns processing for certain categories for certain categories Labelling or prep services, if Amazon prepares your products for shipment if Amazon prepares your products for shipment High-volume listing fees if your catalogue exceeds 100,000 ASINs Understanding these hidden costs is key to building a lean and efficient Amazon business. For a full breakdown of all applicable charges, refer to this in-depth resource on what are Amazon selling fees? Trying to manage these fees while also sourcing products, optimising listings, running ads, and monitoring reviews? It's a lot. That's where a UK-based Amazon agency steps in. These agencies specialise in helping sellers make sense of complex fee structures, identify unnecessary costs, and optimise every element of their business model. Fee Audits : Agencies can analyse your current fees and identify opportunities to reduce costs through more efficient fulfilment or packaging. : Agencies can analyse your current fees and identify opportunities to reduce costs through more efficient fulfilment or packaging. Product Category Optimisation : Placing your product in the right Amazon category can reduce referral fees and boost discoverability. : Placing your product in the right Amazon category can reduce referral fees and boost discoverability. Pricing Strategy : Agencies use data to help you price competitively while accounting for fees and maintaining healthy margins. : Agencies use data to help you price competitively while accounting for fees and maintaining healthy margins. Inventory Management: Smart forecasting ensures you avoid excess storage fees and never go out of stock during peak demand. Without proper planning, fees can turn a profitable product into a loss-maker. Here are a few common mistakes new sellers make: Ignoring dimensional weight in FBA calculations in FBA calculations Choosing the wrong fulfilment method Underestimating long-term storage costs Overlooking hidden costs like returns and prep services Working with an expert team helps you avoid these issues and keeps your business on track. When you treat Amazon fees not as obstacles but as variables you can control, you unlock smarter, more scalable growth. It's not just about cutting costs—it's about making informed decisions that improve ROI across your Amazon business. With experienced guidance, sellers can: Launch new products with clearer cost expectations Plan marketing campaigns with true profit margins in mind Expand into new markets like the USA with fee strategies already in place Success on Amazon doesn't just come from having a great product. It comes from understanding the platform's ecosystem, especially when it comes to fees. These costs can quietly erode profits or, when managed properly, become a lever for growth. If you're serious about selling smarter and scaling faster, partner with a team that understands how to play the game—and win. A trusted UK-based Amazon agency can help you navigate the fine print and make every pound count. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Amazon Caught Selling Kitchen Faucets That Leach Lead Directly Into Your Water
In the past few months, Amazon has been caught selling facial recognition tech to police departments, AI-generated books on managing ADHD, rice contaminated with arsenic and other "heavy metals," and concentrated sodium nitrate that led to the death of a 15-year-old boy. Now, the mega retailer has been caught merchandising untold thousands of kitchen faucets lined with lead, an enormously dangerous heavy metal. Three separate recalls posted by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) advise customers who bought faucets from Amazon sellers Whisper08, Kicimpro, and ChenFeng to stop using the products and seek a refund immediately. The faucets seem to trace back to a home goods manufacturer in Guangdong Province, China, according to information given by the CPSC. Altogether, the recall effects over 100,000 faucets sold between January 2024 and May 2025. Lead is a toxic metal that can have horrific impacts on human health. It's especially dangerous in children and pregnant or soon-to-be-pregnant women. The World Health Organization notes that there is "no level of exposure to lead that is known to be without harmful effects," and that exposure is "entirely preventable." In the past, Amazon was legally allowed to skirt responsibility for selling dangerous items through its site, even ones listed by third-party retailers via the company's "Fulfilled by Amazon" (FBA) service. That all changed last year, when the CPSC issued a unanimous decision holding Amazon responsible for product recalls and notices. Even if Amazon doesn't technically make or sell the product, the CPSC ruled that FBA nonetheless makes the sale possible, ultimately placing liability on Amazon. That decision retroactively made Amazon legally responsible for over 40,000 incredibly dangerous items it profited off over the years. According to the CPSC, these include disturbing products like flammable children's pajamas, hairdryers lacking electrocution safeguards, and busted carbon monoxide detectors. Presumably, it also includes items like the infamous male-to-male extension cord — also known as a suicide cord — which became a minor internet sensation when netizens discovered them listed on Amazon back in 2022. The suicide cord hysteria eventually became so bad that the CPSC issued a statement clarifying that you should seriously never, ever, buy one for any reason. Ever. Still, it's important to note that these measures are reactive, and don't address products prior to being listed. Amazon is still not required to test FBA products for lead or other hazards — only take them down after the dangers are reported. Basically, when it comes to home improvement, you're better off buying your stuff from virtually anywhere else. More on Amazon: Director of ICE Says Deportations Should Operate More Like Amazon Prime
