Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-08-08T14:09:01

(BPT) – Love to travel, but worry about bringing special pieces of jewelry? You’re not alone. According to a Jewelers Mutual^® 2025 travel study,* nearly 80% of surveyed travelers who wear jewelry while traveling choose dedicated travel pieces (or duplicates) — items selected to reduce the chance of losing expensive or sentimental items.

Whether attending a destination wedding, going on a honeymoon or planning an overseas trip, you can take steps to ensure your beloved jewelry stays safe, so you’ll look and feel your best throughout your trip. Wearing duplicates won’t bring you the joy of wearing your favorite pieces.

“Dupe or travel jewelry is a trend that’s grown in recent years,” said Emili Vesilind, jewelry trends expert with Jewelers Mutual. “The disconnect often stems from education — many people simply don’t know there are dedicated jewelry insurance policies out there that cover loss even when you’re traveling.”

Protect valuables while traveling with dedicated jewelry insurance

Instead of bringing dupes on your next vacation, consider investing in dedicated jewelry insurance. All fine jewelry can be covered by jewelry insurance, including rings, bracelets, earrings, chains, watches, pendants and more.

“Jewelry insurance offers protection wherever in the world you travel,” Vesilind explained. “It covers not just loss, theft and damage, but also disappearance. After all, the most common place to lose jewelry when traveling is at the beach or near water.”

Dedicated jewelry insurance provides protection specifically designed for your fine jewelry. While homeowner’s or renter’s insurance might provide some coverage for lost, stolen or damaged jewelry when you travel, coverage often isn’t as comprehensive as a dedicated policy. Get a quote for a dedicated jewelry policy here. Insuring your jewelry could cost as low as 1-2% of your jewelry’s value per year.

The greatest benefit of a policy with Jewelers Mutual is that they work with your jeweler of choice to ensure any damaged piece is repaired or lost or stolen items are replaced.

Practical safety tips

In addition to a dedicated policy, there are safety precautions you can take while traveling to ensure your beloved pieces are protected. To prevent loss or damage before it happens, follow these guidelines:

• Wear fine pieces. By keeping jewelry on your person, you’ll know where it is at all times. Worried about a large diamond engagement ring or special necklace? Turn your ring around or wear your necklace beneath your shirt.
• Store in a carry-on. For items you can’t wear, store them in a solid, zippered jewelry travel case with enough space for pieces to prevent damage en route — in a carry-on bag, not checked luggage.
• Use hotel safes. Safe storage is recommended for fine pieces anytime you’re not wearing them. The best safes allow you to create your own security code.
• Document jewelry. Take pictures of pieces to support your claim in case of damage, theft or loss, and store photos to the cloud for safekeeping. It’s recommended to have fine pieces appraised every two years, since the value of gems and precious metals fluctuates. Keep all appraisal records and receipts to support potential claims.

Purchasing jewelry while traveling

Many travelers plan purchases while traveling to take advantage of lower prices or even duty-free purchasing options. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or choosing a piece to commemorate a meaningful trip, it’s important to know what to look for when purchasing jewelry away from home.

• Check for red flags: Do a quick online check before purchasing. See multiple bad reviews? Consider finding a well-known brand you can trust.
• Choose items with reputable gem certifications or serial numbers: Certifications provide documentation to authenticate your purchase.
• Read fine print on return policies/receipts: If an issue arises before heading home, can you return it?
• International purchases: Be aware that import taxes may increase the cost.
• Insure jewelry while traveling: Many travelers plan purchases while traveling to take advantage of lower prices or duty-free purchasing options. Jewelry is no different — and it’s important to understand the value of investing in dedicated coverage right after a purchase.

Jewelry purchases while traveling are no different than at home, and dedicated coverage is a must to ensure your new pieces are protected. Don’t delay coverage until your trip is over, set up a policy as soon as you can as the unthinkable could happen at any time.

Bring your favorite pieces along, worry-free

Wherever you’re headed, preventive measures help ensure your jewelry stays where it belongs — with you — and dedicated jewelry insurance gives you peace of mind that if jewelry is lost, stolen or damaged, your insurer will work with your jeweler to have it repaired or replaced.

“Travel should be all about enjoying things you love, including your favorite jewelry,” said Vesilind. “With the right precautions and dedicated jewelry insurance, you can travel with your best pieces, worry-free.”

Learn more about dedicated jewelry insurance before your next trip, and get a quick and easy coverage quote for all your jewelry online in just minutes by visiting JewelersMutual.com.

* The Jewelers Mutual study was conducted in February 2025. A sample of over 1,500 adults in the U.S. aged 18+ who were responsible for making insurance decisions in their household and had at least one piece of fine jewelry were recruited via an online research panel and surveyed via online self-completion.

Insurance coverage is subject to underwriting approval, and actual policy terms. Any descriptions of coverage are not a substitute for the actual policy language. Coverage options may vary by state and product. Coverage is offered by a member insurer of the Jewelers Mutual Group, either Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company, SI (a stock insurer) or JM Specialty Insurance Company. Policyholders of both insurers are members of Jewelers Mutual Holding Company.

2025-08-08T07:33:00

(BPT) – Do you love technology? Do you enjoy diving into the past of companies that broke technological barriers to create cutting-edge inventions that are now part of everyday life?

For anyone fascinated by the history of technology — which provides a window into the future — look no further than LG, a company with a strong foundation and steady eye on innovation.

Fun fact: Did you know the company started as “Goldstar” in 1958? Now LG Electronics is ranked the No. 1 appliance brand in the U.S. and designated as one of America’s “most reliable lines of home appliances” by Consumer Reports.

Highlighting a legacy of innovation

History buffs and modern tech gurus may find it interesting that there’s the invite-only LG Heritage Lounge in Changwon, South Korea, an immersive space where visitors can witness over 60 years of LG’s technological progress in the home appliance industry. The exhibition showcases past milestones, while also offering revealing glimpses into the future of AI-powered home appliance solutions.

Organized into five distinct zones, each offers insights into different aspects of LG’s technological journey. For example, in the Core-Tech Zone, some key LG innovations highlighted include:

• Inverter Direct Drive: This revolutionary washer’s Inverter Direct Drive motor directly connects the motor to the drum, eliminating the need for belts and clutches. LG’s AI Direct Drive motor optimizes each wash cycle based on fabric type and weight, providing a smarter and more efficient laundry experience.
• Inverter Linear: LG’s Inverter Linear Compressor, which is used in refrigerators, utilizes a linear motion mechanism. This technology reduces friction and improves energy efficiency. With the help of AI, it also minimizes temperature fluctuations to ensure that food stays fresher longer while saving energy.
• Dual Inverter: The Dual Inverter Compressor in LG air conditioners combines two rollers for enhanced energy efficiency, reduced noise, and better performance. Another noteworthy innovation is AI Air, LG’s next-generation climate control technology that uses AI to manage temperature and airflow more precisely, offering a tailored indoor environment.

The lounge is a testament to LG’s rich legacy and its unwavering commitment to innovation, showcasing how its AI-driven technologies will continue to lead the way in creating smarter, more efficient homes.

Past inventions drive ongoing innovation

Knowing insider facts is a fun way to showcase your tech knowledge, but true technology enthusiasts may want to see technologies of the past, present and future up close and personal. For an immersive experience, be sure to check out the Goldstar Refresh Center in Seoul, South Korea.

In collaboration with Starbucks, LG built the Goldstar Refresh Center in the old Kyungdong Theater location within the Kyungdong Market. The retro-themed space provides novelty to new generations and nostalgia for older generations, highlighting vintage elements alongside futuristic technologies.

While there you can explore numerous interactive exhibits, solve fun puzzles, control smart appliances and even escape from your worries. Get your clothing refreshed in the LG Styler and play retro video games on an LG Ultrawide Curved OLED Screen. This experiential space has something for everyone.

With novelty for new generations and nostalgia for older generations, the Goldstar Refresh Center showcases LG’s “Life’s Good” philosophy, and its longstanding commitment to technological excellence.

2025-08-08T11:57:00

(BPT) – With pencils sharpened and backpacks zipped, American families head back to school facing rising prices. New Empower research finds that 50% of Americans say back-to-school shopping is more expensive this year due to inflation and 31% report feeling stressed about these expenses.

Stress hits hardest for younger generations

Nearly 1 in 3 Americans (31%) report feeling stressed about back-to-school expenses this year, according to new research from Empower. That number climbs sharply among Millennials and Gen Z, where nearly half (43%) say the season comes with financial anxiety.

Nearly 4 in 10 (39%) cite tariffs as a factor making supplies more expensive.

Swiping smart: How families are paying for back-to-school

More than a third of respondents report they’re spending more this year than last year (35%). Americans say they are spending $188 on back-to-school supplies this season, with younger generations spending the bulk:

• Millennials: $394
• Gen Z: $276
• Gen X: $178
• Boomers: $34

To fund these costs, families are turning to a mix of payment strategies:

• 37% use debit cards or checking accounts
• 23% rely on credit cards
• 15% dip into personal savings
• 7% turn to friends or family
• 5% opt for buy now, pay later (BNPL) options

One in 5 Millennials say they use BNPL to pay for back-to-school costs (19%).

Early shoppers

Many are getting a head start: 34% of Americans shop for back-to-school items earlier than they used to in order to spread out costs over time (42% Gen Z, 45% Millennials). Nearly 1 in 5 shop in July (16%), with 22% continuing into August.

A third of Americans (34%) have set aside specific savings for back-to-school expenses, a habit more common among younger generations (46% Gen Z; 48% Millennials).

Cutting back to gear up

To make room in their budgets, Americans — especially younger ones — are trimming elsewhere:

• 42% of Millennials are cutting back in other areas to afford school expenses
• 51% of Americans say even small purchases now feel like big decisions

What’s in the bag?

Back-to-school spending isn’t just about notebooks and pencils anymore. Here’s where the dollars are going:

• School supplies (notebooks, backpacks, etc.): 42%
• Clothing and shoes: 41%
• Technology: 20%
• Transportation (bus passes, gas): 17%
• Extracurriculars (sports, clubs): 13%
• Childcare/afterschool programs: 7%

Deals, discounts and digital help

In a world where every dollar counts, 74% of shoppers say price and discounts top their decision-making list, followed by quality (56%), brand (30%) and loyalty rewards (26%). More than 4 in 10 (43%) Americans say they wait for a sale or discount before purchasing — especially Gen Z (54%) and Millennials (52%).

Tech-savvy shoppers are even turning to artificial intelligence:

• 30% of Millennials have used AI to track down the best deals
• 27% have used AI to build their school shopping lists

Visit The Currency™ to read Empower’s full research report, “The Backpack Economy.”

Methodology:

Empower’s “Backpack Economy” study is based on online survey responses from 2,201 Americans ages 18+ fielded by a third-party panel provider from June 29 – 31, 2025. The survey is weighted to be nationally representative of U.S. adults.

2025-08-08T06:01:00

(BPT) – Talking to your teen about mental health and drug use can feel challenging — one wrong move and the conversation ends as soon as it begins. But it is possible, and taking that leap can make all the difference in your teen’s life. As a parent or caregiver, it’s important to understand the connection between your teen’s mental health and potential for substance use. Staying connected can reduce their risk for drug use.

On International Overdose Awareness Day, Aug. 31, and Recovery Month, in September, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is raising awareness of the connection between youth substance use and mental health to help prevent teens from trying drugs and worse, overdosing on drugs. Real change can begin to happen by strengthening teens’ connections with their parents and caregivers.

“Teens may use alcohol and other substances to help them cope with mental health challenges like stress, anxiety and depression. Over time, this ongoing use can lead to a substance use disorder,” said Dr. Allison Arwady, Director of CDC’s National Center for Injury Control and Prevention. “Learning about the substances teens may use and proactively supporting teens in areas such as having positive relationships, ensuring they have a strong sense of self and helping them be involved in their community can help them stay healthy.”

Follow these three steps to start a conversation with your teen today:

1. Educate yourself.

Take time to understand the types of substances teens may use and the resources available for you and your teen. Educating yourself on the issues your teen faces can help you navigate through the tough questions.

2. Use everyday opportunities to start talking.

Have honest conversations with your teen. Talking with your teen about their mental health can help create a real connection and even help prevent substance use. Having a shared activity can help both of you feel more relaxed while you talk. This could be playing a sport, gaming, taking a walk or even getting a bite to eat. Avoid pointed questions, listen more than you speak and remember, you don’t have to have the entire conversation at once.

3. Lead with compassion and create a judgment-free zone.

While as a parent this can be difficult as you want to protect and discipline your child, leading conversations with empathy can make teens feel more comfortable coming to you when they have questions or need support. Assure your teen that you will always be there for them, no matter what. Check in regularly to keep the conversation going and help protect them against the pressure to use drugs and alcohol.

Building trust with your teen takes time, and it’s OK if they don’t open up right away. By doing your research and having open conversations, you are showing your teen that their health is your top priority.

If you’re unsure of how to start, the Free Mind campaign for teens has resources available for parents and caregivers. The campaign was created through research and real conversations with youth, parents and caregivers. Visit cdc.gov/freemind/parents.

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Youth Risk Behavior Survey Data Summary & Trends Report: 2013–2023. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; 2024.

Family and Youth Services Bureau. Positive Youth Development. Retrieved May 1, 2025, from https://acf.gov/fysb/positive-youth-development

2025-08-07T10:01:00

(BPT) – Closing out summer with a relaxing vacay or planning a beach day? Summer may be speeding by but there’s still time left for outdoor excursions and fun in the sun. Walgreens makes it easy to enjoy and prepare for sunny excursions with everything you need for your end of summer bag that’s also easy on the budget — from drinks and snacks to high-performing sun care products.

Quality summer skin protection without the splurge

Sun protection is crucial during summer months due to increased exposure to harmful UV rays. Protecting your skin from the sun’s rays can prevent sunburn, premature aging and significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer. From barrier-boosting SPF to cooling aloe gel, Walgreens offers affordable alternatives that rival prestige picks.

Big summer energy, small summer budget

With value top of mind, Walgreens helps you stock up on end of summer essentials while staying on budget. Think cooling deodorant sprays, electrolyte drink mixes, travel-ready hand sanitizers and sweet snack packs that make your beach bag ready for outdoor fun. This is outdoor preparedness, simplified: protect, hydrate, refresh and snack smart.

“As we enter the final stretch of summer, it’s important to remember that UV rays and high temperatures are still in the forecast,” said Sonali Kshatriya, Senior Manager of Clinical Program Excellence and Innovation. “Whether you’re hitting the pool or taking a final vacation before back-to-school, prioritizing sun protection and hydration is key — even when it’s cloudy outside.”

Here’s a list of the top 10 end of summer must-haves to help stock your vacay or beach bag, according to a Walgreens pharmacist:

Sun Protection and Skin Care

1. Walgreens Radiant Facial Sunscreen SPF 40 gives you premium, sheer broad-spectrum protection from harmful UVA/UVB rays while moisturizing skin for a glowy, radiant finish. Recommended for normal, combination or dry skin, this lightweight formula absorbs quickly and won’t clog pores.

2. Walgreens Sport Sunscreen Continuous Spray SPF 50, Fresh provides broad-spectrum SPF 50 UVA/UVB protection while also being water resistant for up to 80 minutes and won’t run into your eyes. It contains no oxybenzone, CFCs or added parabens.

3. Secret Aluminum Free Cooling Spray Deodorant For Women in Peach & Vanilla offers 72-hour odor protection, cooling skin by 10 degrees. It’s versatile and provides a soothing sensation and long-lasting freshness.

4. ChapStick SPF 15 glides on smoothly and evenly, providing a protective lip balm featuring an ultra-hydrating formula with 11 moisturizing ingredients along with SPF 15 sun protection.

5. Walgreens Hand Sanitizer + Aloe & Vitamin E effectively eliminates 99.99% of many common harmful germs and bacteria in as little as 15 seconds. Best yet, it contains moisturizers to leave your hands feeling soft.

Hydration and Snacks

6. Smartwater Vapor Distilled Premium Water Bottle, 33.8 fluid ounces offers purity you can taste, leaving you feeling refreshed whether you’re running errands, working out or soaking up some sun poolside.

7. Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier — Sugar Free Electrolyte Drink Mix is scientifically and clinically tested to be more hydrating than water alone, with 5 essential vitamins: B3, B5, B6, B12 and vitamin C. It’s also sugar-free and low calorie, with just 20 calories per serving.

8. Nice! For You Snack Mix Blueberry Pie, 2.25 ounces provides tasty blueberry-flavored yogurt pie crust cookie gems, butter toffee almonds, blueberries and cranberries for easy snacking when you’re at the park, the beach or the gym. Each snack mix is just 140 calories, in a small package that won’t take up too much space in your summer bag.

After-Sun Relief

And — in case your summer sun preparedness didn’t go as planned — some Walgreens pharmacist-approved after-sun care and treatment recommendations:

9. Walgreens Dye-Free After Sun Gel cools and soothes skin while helping restore moisture. Just what your body needs after a day in the sun. Safe to use on sensitive skin, this refreshing aloe-based gel replenishes moisture and softens skin with a non-oily formula that absorbs quickly for easy application on legs, arms, shoulders, back and face to help prevent peeling.

10. Walgreens Ibuprofen Tablets, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can help reduce inflammation, pain and redness associated with sunburn. They are most effective when taken early, even before the redness fully develops. With bottles available in a range of sizes, shoppers can pick up a travel size to keep handy when they’re on the go.

All packed up and ready to go

Walgreens can help savvy shoppers find value on everyday end of summer necessities, everything from portable snacks to sun care and more, in one convenient place. For even more convenience and value, grab the Walgreens Summer Essentials Kit, a curated bundle valued at more than $50 for only half the price at $24.99. Pre-packed and ready to go, it’s the perfect one stop solution for summer on the run.

Shop these and other summer essentials online at Walgreens.com or at your local Walgreens store.

2025-08-06T15:53:00

(BPT) – Looking for a new phone plan? With great options for families and superior roaming in over 15 countries, Total Wireless is the clear option.

2025-08-06T09:01:00

(BPT) – There’s something energizing about the start of a new school year, especially the moment kids open fresh packs of their favorite Crayola crayons, markers, and colored pencils. These vibrant tools don’t just fill pencil cases; they spark creativity, fuel imagination, and empower self-expression both in the classroom and at home. With every bold stroke and colorful doodle, kids are inspired to explore, learn, and make their mark on the world.

Crayola drawing connections between color and creativity isn’t just anecdotal—research backs it up. According to a 2024 Color Perception Survey* conducted by Crayola in partnership with the Ad Council Research Institute, color rates as the most impactful element in planning important milestones, symbolizing meaningful aspects of life and describing something as beautiful or unique by more than 88% of respondents. These emotional ties to color also lend themselves to self-expression, as 87% of those surveyed believe that color significantly influences creativity.

Become A Part of Crayola History

Given the powerful role that color plays in everyone’s lives, Crayola—the iconic brand synonymous with color and creativity—is bringing even more excitement to this back-to-school season with the Global Color Vote. For the first time in company history, Crayola is inviting color enthusiasts of all ages to vote for their favorite Crayola colors. Global Color Vote gives people around the world the unique opportunity to influence the creation of a special collection of crayons, colored pencils, and markers based on the colors that mean the most to them.

Through Sept. 30, consumers can cast their vote for their favorite color by visiting www.crayola.com/votenow or by scanning the QR code on the back of Crayola “What’s your Favorite Color?” products such as 24-count Classic Crayons, 12-count Colored Pencils and 10-count Classic Colors Broad Line Markers during back-to-school shopping.

Grab Limited Edition Colors Before They’re Gone!

While you’re voting for your favorite color, you can also celebrate past fan-favorite crayon colors, with the Crayola Limited Edition collection. Prepare for a colorful new school year with a blast from the past, celebrating previously retired Crayola crayon colors that have brightened classrooms for generations. The Crayola Limited Edition Retired Colors Collection features colors Dandelion, Mulberry, Blizzard Blue, Raw Umber, Lemon Yellow, Orange Red, Violet Blue and Magic Mint in 8 Count Crayons, 8 Count Markers and 8 Count Colored Pencils. Get them while you can—these beloved colors return to retirement at the end of 2025!

If you’re a budding artist, a seasoned Crayola collector or a teacher stocking up on supplies, these limited edition art tools allow fans to get reacquainted with some of their past favorite crayon colors, and for some, meet these colors for the first time.

Creativity for the Entire Classroom

Whether you’re participating in the Global Color Vote or celebrating Limited Edition retired colors, teachers, parents, and students can find all their favorite Crayola back-to-school supplies at retailers nationwide, offering trusted quality and exceptional value at the same great price parents know and love. To show support for educators, consider purchasing bulk packs of top-listed items like Crayons, Markers, and Colored Pencils to help provide much-needed supplies that fuel learning and creativity for the entire classroom.

Make this school season one for the books by giving the students in your life new items like Limited Edition or fan-favorite Crayola classics like 24 Count Crayons. Plus, be a part of history and participate in the first-ever Global Color Vote.

*Color Perception Survey Methodology: Findings from a nationwide study conducted by Crayola in partnership with the Ad Council Research Institute from Oct. 16-23, 2024, with 1,503 parents of kids aged 2-12.

2025-08-04T10:01:00

(BPT) – In the business world, talent and tenacity are often described as the ultimate equalizers. But for many startup founders — especially those from underrepresented backgrounds — the reality is more complicated. Access to capital remains uneven. Networks that open doors to advisors, investors and early customers are often closed circles. These structural challenges can stall progress before it even begins.

Despite these headwinds, founders from these communities are launching some of the most resilient, creative ventures in technology today. What’s needed isn’t just grit — it’s access, context-specific support and a clear path to scale.

Now underrepresented founders have a new opportunity that can help supercharge their success.

Amazon Web Services (AWS), in partnership with Techstars, a pre-seed investor backing startups building a better future for everyone, recognizes the importance of helping founders create transformative solutions, and as part of this commitment, they’ve recently launched a global initiative designed to support underrepresented founders around the globe.

Enter the AWS Impact Bootcamps

If you’re an underrepresented founder building something bold, AWS Impact Bootcamps are for you. Over two days, you’ll get deep technical training with real tools, expert business advice from people who’ve done it before and direct access to mentors, investors and support that actually matters.

AWS Impact Bootcamps builds on AWS’s $30 million commitment to Black, Women, Latino, and LGBTQIA+ founders launched in 2022 and scales AWS’s global footprint in supporting hundreds more diverse founders beyond the U.S. to reach other countries around the world.

For many early-stage founders, the distance between a great idea and a fundable startup isn’t talent — it’s translation. Turning a product into a business means understanding how to pitch, how to price and how to map a go-to-market strategy. But, for founders who don’t have access to seasoned advisors, this translation gap can stall momentum.

This is where initiatives like the AWS Impact Bootcamps come in. By designing a curriculum specifically around the most acute challenges underrepresented founders face, the bootcamps aim to equip participants with tools that often take years to acquire.

Scaling access, one city at a time

Each bootcamp accommodates up to 50 founders per city, delivering focused training on critical business themes like sales, GTM (go-to-market) or fundraising. The AWS Impact Bootcamps program will launch in six cities across North America, Latin America, Europe and Asia-Pacific:

• Atlanta, Georgia, United States (Sept. 8-9)
• New York, New York, United States (Sept. 15-16)
• Mexico City, Mexico (Oct. 1-2, 2025)
• London, United Kingdom (Oct. 16-17, 2025)
• Tokyo, Japan (TBD early 2026)
• Berlin, Germany (TBD early 2026)

Each bootcamp will deliver an intensive two-day experience, equipping early-stage, underrepresented founders with deep technical training with real tools, expert business advice and access to mentors, investors and community, in addition to $5,000 in AWS promotional credits to get building on the world’s leading cloud. Workshops will be managed locally by the program partner, Techstars.

Join the next generation of founders

To apply, founding teams must identify as a member of an underrepresented community (Black, Women, Latino, Indigenous, LGBTQIA+, and founders with disabilities), or demonstrate work, activities or engagement that otherwise supports such communities. Applicants must also demonstrate clear cloud technology needs and have secured pre-seed or angel funding up to $2 million. Additionally, they should be operating with a publicly launched product, be under 5 years old and commit to the full two-day program.

Founders can learn more about the AWS Impact Bootcamps here: https://aws.amazon.com/startups/lp/aws-impact-bootcamps.

2025-08-04T09:01:00

(BPT) – Electric vehicles have put a charge into the U.S. automotive market, but there’s a burning question many drivers still have: How can tires help them get the most out of their EVs?

From October 2024 to January 2025, hybrid and electric vehicles accounted for 25% of new vehicle sales in the United States — a 32% year-over-year increase, according to S&P Global.

The American EV segment may be showing electrifying growth these days, but global tiremaker Nokian Tyres has developed tires with EVs in mind for many years. Way back in 2012, the inventor of the winter and all-weather passenger tires set a world record for the fastest electric vehicle on ice. Every tire the company makes comes with an Electric Fit marking that certifies it’s a seamless fit for EVs.

What does Nokian Tyres have to say about EV tires? And how are tiremakers working hard to meet the needs of this emerging market?

It starts by recognizing the unique demands electric vehicles place on tires.

Weight

Electric vehicles are generally 10 to 15% heavier than internal combustion engine vehicles. That places extra wear and tear on traditional tires. Rubber that isn’t durable enough to withstand the added bulk will wear out more quickly, and sometimes irregularly.

That makes blowouts more likely and driving less efficient. The added weight can also increase braking time and cause handling issues on challenging surfaces, such as rain or wintry precipitation.

Tiremakers seek to account for the heavier load by constructing tires with heavier-duty materials and formulating rubber compounds to be more responsive to the road. Nokian Tyres reinforces its EV-compatible products with robust internal structures and advanced materials that maintain stability and durability under heavier loads. The result is a tire that delivers confident handling and long-lasting performance, even under the increased demands of electric mobility.

Noise

Without the hum of an engine, EVs make road noise more noticeable. The main sound drivers notice in the cabin is the noise of tires touching the road. Tire manufacturers seek to mitigate noise frequencies by using tread patterns, rubber compounds and materials that dampen sound waves.

Nokian Tyres addresses this with innovative noise-reduction technologies, including silent sidewall designs and optimized tread patterns that absorb sound and reduce vibration. Nokian Tyres inserts acoustic foam into its dedicated EV winter products, the Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta 10 EV and R5 EV. The result is a smoother, quieter ride that complements the serene driving experience EV owners expect.

Torque

Electric vehicles are powerful. They often deliver two to three times more torque than comparable ICE vehicles, especially in the mainstream and luxury segments. And because that torque is available instantly, EVs feel quicker and more responsive in everyday driving.

That extra acceleration power presents a challenge to tires, since rapid changes in speed can cause them to wear more quickly. Drivers should pursue tires that can withstand high torque and deliver grip that maximizes their vehicles’ acceleration power. The key: tread patterns and rubber compounds that balance durability and responsiveness.

Nokian Tyres engineers its EV tires with advanced tread compounds and reinforced structures that resist abrasion and maintain grip under sudden acceleration. This helps drivers enjoy the full performance of their EVs without compromising safety or longevity.

Range

Tire design plays a critical role in EV range. High rolling resistance can drain battery life, while optimized tires can help extend it.

How do tiremakers lower the rolling resistance of their tires, helping to optimize EV range? Design plays a big role. According to Nokian Tyres, a tire’s sidewall construction, tread pattern and rubber compound play a role in reducing rolling resistance.

Nokian Tyres’ EV-compatible products feature low-rolling-resistance compounds that reduce energy loss and improve efficiency; in fact, more than 90% of Nokian Tyres products rank in the lowest categories of rolling resistance. This means drivers can go farther on a single charge — an essential benefit for those looking to maximize their vehicle’s potential.

For the right driver, electric vehicles can offer big advantages over rides powered by internal combustion engines. But that’s only true if the tires are up to the challenge.

For more recommendations about EV tires, visit NokianTires.com/EVs.

2025-08-04T11:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is about fun, relaxation — and savoring every moment. To make the most of your summer days, premium chocolate maker Chocolove has irresistible new flavors, a smattering of s’mores options and a decadently refreshing milkshake recipe to help you indulge.

Get nutty with 3 new flavors

Whether you go crazy for pistachios, pecans or walnuts — or all three — Chocolove has you covered with new perfectly balanced nut flavors that are both delicious and rich in texture.

• Milk Chocolate with Pistachios & Sea Salt: rich, creamy milk chocolate paired with the delicate crunch of roasted pistachios and a hint of sea salt for satisfying flavor in every bite, complete with antioxidants, healthy fats and fiber.
• Milk Chocolate with Pecans, Cookies & Sea Salt: a comforting blend of velvety milk chocolate, decadent crumbles of cookies and crunchy rich pecans to evoke memories of nostalgic dessert flavors.
• Dark Chocolate with Walnuts & Sea Salt: bold, sophisticated dark chocolate harmonizing perfectly with the earthy crunch of walnuts and a savory touch of sea salt, delivering elevated taste plus omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.

Want to try them all? Enjoy these new flavors at Chocolove.com and for a limited time in a special 6-pack assortment box with two of each variety, ideal for sampling and gifting. Also, look for the nut bars in retail stores including Natural Grocers, Harris Teeter, Raley’s, New Seasons, and Fresh Thyme.

Savor the richness of Dubai Style Milk Chocolate

For a chocolate experience that satisfies all of your senses, the new Dubai Style Milk Chocolate Pistachio & Kadayif Bites Gift Box combines luxurious flavor and irresistible texture in every bite.

Wrapped in velvety milk chocolate, each handcrafted, bite-sized piece is filled with a creamy pistachio center blended with crisp strands of Kadayif pastry, a finely shredded phyllo adding delightful crunch. It’s a delicious way to celebrate life’s little luxuries — and the perfect gift for foodies who appreciate unique and elevated desserts.

Level up your s’mores

Whether you make these summertime treats at the fireside or in your toaster oven, s’mores season calls for something special. Keep it classic with smooth milk or bold dark chocolate, or add a decadent twist with filled or flavored bars. Try these tasty options for crave-worthy s’mores that transform a childhood favorite into a gourmet experience.

• Hawaiian Sea Salt in Strong Dark Chocolate: strong, bittersweet dark chocolate complemented by Hawaiian Alaea red sea salt for a perfect sweet-salty balance.
• Raspberries in Dark Chocolate: smooth semi-sweet dark chocolate with crispy bits of tart freeze-dried raspberry pieces bursting with flavor for a harmonious combination that will transform your s’mores into a celebration of summer.
• Milk Chocolate: a classic s’mores must-have — creamy milk chocolate offering caramel-like flavors blending into a light cocoa finish.
• Salted Caramel in Dark Chocolate: salted caramel filling is enveloped in classic premium dark chocolate.

Shake things up with this sweet summer recipe

Experience the refreshing bliss of a cool, creamy Chocolove Double Chocolate Milkshake, perfect for a hot summer day. Combining the rich, velvety taste of Chocolove Milk Chocolate with the smoothness of vanilla ice cream, this milkshake is a quick and easy delight your whole family will love. To elevate the decadence, add a luxurious drizzle of Chocolove Strong Dark Chocolate.

For a delightful dessert or sweet afternoon pick-me-up, this milkshake is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings. Ready in 15 minutes, it’s an effortless way to enjoy a touch of chocolate heaven anytime. Follow the directions below.

Double Chocolate Bliss Milkshake
Prep time: 15 minutes; Serves 2

Ingredients
1 cup vanilla ice cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1 bar Chocolove Milk Chocolate (3.2 ounces), melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 bar Chocolove Strong Dark Chocolate (1.6 ounces), melted (for drizzle)
Whipped cream (for topping)
Chocolate shavings for sprinkles (optional, for garnish)

Recipe
Melt chocolate: Break Milk and Dark Chocolate bars into pieces. Melt separately in microwave or double boiler, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.

Drizzle glasses: Using a spoon or squeeze bottle, drizzle melted Dark Chocolate, coating the inside and outside rim of the serving glasses.

Blend shake: In a blender, combine vanilla ice cream, milk, melted Milk Chocolate and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.

Serve: Pour milkshake into glasses. Top with whipped cream and garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

With these special treats and recipes, your summer just got a whole lot sweeter. You can also feel good knowing Chocolove is ethically sourced and made from traceable, Non-GMO Project Verified ingredients, and most flavors are Rainforest Alliance Certified, meaning Chocolove’s sourcing practices support a better future for cocoa farmers and their families. Chocolove is also free of artificial preservatives for a decadent, world-class flavor experience.

Find everything you need to savor the summer at Chocolove.com, Amazon, Whole Foods Market, Publix, Walgreens, Safeway, Albertsons, Kroger, Walmart, Target, Sprouts and a variety of independent and natural retailers.