Media OutReach
DFI Retail Group and Becon Announce Strategic Partnership to Launch AI Skin & Scalp Assessment in over 400 Stores Across Asia
Driving Omnichannel Experiences with Trusted Advice and Personalised Recommendations Online and Offline
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 January 2026 – DFI Retail Group (“DFI”) and Becon, a Samsung-backed company, today announced a strategic partnership to launch an AI-powered skin and scalp assessment solution across online and offline channels in Asia. This milestone reinforces DFI’s commitment to driving growth in wellness and delivering integrated omnichannel experiences at scale, underpinned by trusted advice and personalised recommendations for customers of its Health & Beauty business.
Accelerating mass roll-out across Asia
The partnership will see the phased deployment of Becon’s skin and scalp assessments across more than 400 Guardian and Mannings stores in Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia, and Singapore. A phased roll-out will also introduce a mobile app lite solution on Guardian and Mannings apps.
The mass roll-out builds on a successful proof-of-concept in 2025, which demonstrated strong customer engagement, achieving significant purchase conversion and basket growth, along with consistently high revisit intention scores exceeding 6.5 out of 7.
Driving integrated wellness experiences across omnichannel
With Becon’s solutions, Guardian and Mannings will be able to leverage data-driven insights to provide tailored wellness advice and personalised recommendations, effectively building trust and strengthening loyalty with customers.
Customers will be able to start with quick assessments online, and be guided towards stores for comprehensive, in-depth assessments and consultations with trained wellness professionals. This seamless, integrated experience contributes to driving engagement and traffic between online and offline touchpoints, while empowering customers to make more informed choices as Guardian and Mannings continue to expand their wellness assortment with function- and efficacy-based products.
Delivering micro-precision analysis
Becon’s solution combines macro and micro analyses for higher accuracy, backed by collaborative research with medical professionals and a robust database of over 3 million skin and hair profiles. Its specialised scanner uses a high-resolution camera and multiple sensors, including UV-A LED imaging, temperature, humidity, and odour detection, to measure 12 skin and 12 hair parameters respectively in just five minutes:
- Skin: moisture, redness, sebum, acne, porphyrins, pore size, pore density, blemishes, wrinkles, dark circles, skin barrier, skin temperature
- Hair and scalp: hair loss risk, hair volume, hair thickness, follicle density, hairs per follicle, moisture, sebum, dandruff, sensitivity, hair odour
Andrew Wong, Chief Executive Officer of Health & Beauty, DFI Retail Group, said: “This partnership with Becon represents a strategically important step in advancing our wellness strategy and reinforcing our position as the trusted advisor for our customers. By integrating technology with our long-standing professional expertise, we create an omnichannel experience that not only supports customers’ diverse wellness needs, but also nurtures lasting engagement and loyalty across our Health & Beauty businesses.”
Minsuk Park, CEO of Becon, said: “This partnership with DFI Retail Group allows Becon to bring our advanced assessment technology to more customers across Asia. By combining our innovation capabilities with DFI’s strong retail network and omnichannel ecosystem, we can deliver personalised insights at scale and help customers understand their wellbeing with trusted advice.”
DFI and Becon will continue to collaborate closely as the solution is introduced progressively across stores and mobile apps starting in 2026. Customers will be able to access these new services in more neighbourhood locations, supported by the phased launch of the mobile app lite experience in selected markets. Together, the two companies remain committed to enhancing wellness experiences built on technology, expertise, and personalisation.
Hashtag: #DFIRetailGroup #Guardian #Mannings #Becon
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About DFI Retail Group
DFI Retail Group (the ‘Group’) is a leading Asian retailer, driven by its purpose to “Sustainably Serve Asia for Generations with Everyday Moments”. At 1 Dec 2025, the Group and its associates operated over 7,400 outlets and employed over 81,000 people. The Group is dedicated to delivering quality, value and service to Asian consumers through a compelling retail experience, supported by an extensive store network and highly efficient supply chains. The Group, including associates, operates a portfolio of well-known brands across five key divisions: health and beauty, convenience, food, home furnishings and restaurants.
Guardian
Guardian was established in 1967 in Malaysia and has grown into a trusted health and beauty retailer in Southeast Asia. With more than 1,200 stores across Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam. Guardian offers a comprehensive range of healthcare, beauty care, personal care, and baby care products to meet the diverse needs of its customers. Guardian stores also offer professional services such as patient-care counselling, dispensary and personal care services, providing a convenient, one-stop health and beauty solution.
Mannings
Mannings is Hong Kong’s largest health and beauty retailer, operating over 300 outlets, including more than 60 in-store pharmacies, across Hong Kong and Macau. With a diverse range of products and services, Mannings is committed to integrating the concept of “Wellness” into our daily lives while pioneering a new era of health. By offering innovative health technologies, AI solutions, preventive healthcare, self-managed health tools, and digital wellness and beauty solutions, Mannings empowers individuals and families to prioritize their well-being. Mannings also provides complementary professional services, including Safe Disposal of Unused Medicines program, Advice for Minor Ailments, as well as medication and usage consultations, safeguarding the community’s health and beauty.
About Becon
Becon is a Korean beauty technology company specialising in AI-driven scalp and skin analysis, combining proprietary imaging hardware, intelligent software, and data-driven recommendation systems to enable personalised care. Recognised by Samsung through its C-Lab Program and strategic investment, Becon has also received global and national honours including the CES 2023 Innovation Award, designation as a representative K-Beauty technology at the 2025 APEC Summit, a Tier-2 national technology evaluation, and the Minister of Science and ICT Award. Through continuous innovation and global partnerships, Becon aims to redefine how scalp and skin health are analysed and managed worldwide.
Media OutReach
From Mexico to Hong Kong, Jose Manuel Cervantes Sanchez is Building Bridges Through Media at CUHK
Hong Kong: A Strategic Hub for Global Media
Currently enrolled in CUHK’s Global Communication programme, Jose is part of a growing wave of international students choosing Hong Kong for its strategic role as a cultural and commercial gateway between East and West. Long fascinated by Asian culture and influenced by family ties to the city, he was drawn to its unique position as a bridge between cultures. “I wanted to become a local with time and create bridges between Mexico and Hong Kong,” he said.
A school adviser first introduced him to CUHK as a strong option, and while he also considered universities in Canada and the United Kingdom, Hong Kong remained his first choice. Receiving the CUHK University Admission Scholarship confirmed his decision.
Academic Excellence and Creative Exploration
Jose’s experience in the Global Communication programme has met his expectations and more. What stands out most to him are the creative courses, which give students hands-on access to professional media equipment and the freedom to experiment. “Being encouraged to explore creativity by some professors has led me to discover new sides of myself,” he noted.
Outside the classroom, Jose has embraced life in Hong Kong with enthusiasm. From cultural events and student society gatherings to exploring local food streets, he has found the city lively and inspiring. The campus MTR station also makes it easy to travel to Shatin, Hong Kong Island, and even the Shenzhen border, adding to the convenience of student life.
A Creative Career Taking Shape in Hong Kong
Looking ahead, Jose hopes to take part in a semester exchange and a media production internship to further strengthen his practical skills. His post-graduation plans remain open, with possibilities in both Mexico’s rapidly growing entertainment industry and Hong Kong’s dynamic market.
For international students considering their options, Jose’s message is clear: CUHK offers academic quality, financial support, and a valuable foothold in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
CUHK’s Global Communication Programme
CUHK’s Global Communication programme prepares students for an evolving media landscape by combining communication studies with a guaranteed overseas exchange and a curriculum built around real-world experience.
- Cutting-Edge Facilities: Access to a 4K-UHD Virtual Set Studio, Digital Radio Studio, and VR Lab.
- Guaranteed Global Exchange: One semester at a partner university in Asia, Europe, or North America.
- Hands-On Learning: Real-world experience through journalism projects and overseas study tours.
- International Classroom: A 1:1 ratio of international to local students with all courses taught in English.
For more information about CUHK’s Global Communication programme, visit https://admission.cuhk.edu.hk/programme/gcomn/
Hashtag: #CUHK
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Media OutReach
Singapore’s Largest Pet Event Returns Bigger Than Ever with Singapore Pet Festival 2026
Featuring Cesar Millan’s Singapore Debut, Over 300 Exhibitors, 800+ Brands, International Competitions, and Four Halls of Pet Experiences
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – Pet lovers can look forward to the return of SG Pet Festival 2026, Singapore’s largest pet exhibition, happening from 31 July to 2 August 2026 at Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre, Halls A, B, C & D.
Spanning across four exhibition halls, this year’s festival promises its biggest edition yet, bringing together over 300 exhibitors representing more than 800 local and international brands. Visitors can expect an exciting three-day celebration filled with shopping, education, competitions, interactive experiences, exclusive launches, and entertainment for pets and their families.
“Singapore Pet Festival has always been about bringing the pet community together while creating opportunities for brands, businesses, and pet lovers to connect. As the festival continues to grow, we are committed to raising industry standards, supporting education, and introducing new experiences that benefit both consumers and businesses. This year’s festival is our biggest and most exciting edition yet, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to Marina Bay Sands,” said Angie Lim, Managing Director of Citrus Media.
Event Highlights
Shop, Save & Win
Visitors can enjoy:
- $30,000 worth of Cash Rebates & Lucky Draw Prizes
- Exclusive event-only product launches, promotions, and deals
- Official TikTok LIVE shopping sessions featuring exclusive festival promotions and participating exhibitors
- Complimentary Limited Edition Singapore Pet Festival Tote Bag (while stocks last)
- Complimentary themed photobooth print-outs for qualifying spenders
- Exclusive giveaways and brand activations throughout the festival
Singapore’s Largest Pet Marketplace
With over 300 exhibitors showcasing 800+ brands, visitors can explore the latest products and services for dogs, cats, birds, small animals, aquatics, and more.
A specially curated Food Street featuring 18 food booths will also offer a delicious selection of food, refreshing beverages, and indulgent desserts, giving visitors plenty of dining options throughout the festival.
International & Industry Highlights
Singapore Pet Festival continues to strengthen its position as a leading regional pet event by welcoming exhibitors and industry professionals from across Asia.
Highlights include:
- International exhibitors from across Asia, including the Japan Pavilion and Korea Pavilion
- Singapore’s first International Society of Canine Cosmetologists (ISCC) Grooming Certification & Competition
- The 8th TICA Cat Show, featuring pedigreed cats and renowned breeders
- National Dog Obedience Competition, featuring Singapore’s top obedience teams in a live showcase of skill and teamwork supported by Pets Enterprises & Traders Association Singapore (PETAS)
- International judging panels and industry experts
Dedicated Experiences for Every Pet Lover
Visitors can enjoy:
- A dedicated Hall D for Cats & Small Animals, showcasing curated brands, activities, and live animal displays, including birds, guinea pigs and chinchillas
- Interactive pet-friendly activities and experiences
- Exclusive themed pet photo shoot experiences
Education & Community
Beyond shopping, Singapore Pet Festival aims to educate and connect the pet community through:
- Educational talks, workshops, and live demonstrations
- Meet-and-greet opportunities with veterinarians, trainers, groomers, and industry professionals
- Animal welfare groups hosting on-site adoption drives, giving rescued animals the opportunity to find loving forever homes while promoting responsible pet adoption
- A platform connecting pet owners, businesses, and animal lovers across the region
Exclusive Media Preview
Ahead of the public opening, invited media representatives, content creators, VIP guests and industry partners will enjoy exclusive early access to Singapore Pet Festival 2026 during the VIP Preview Session on Friday, 31 July, from 10:00 AM.
The preview offers creators a first-hand shopping experience, early access to new product launches and exclusive deals, opportunities to create content before the crowds arrive, and networking with brands and fellow creators.
Hashtag: #clubpets #sgpetfestival #petevents #petexpo #petfair
https://www.clubpets.com.sg/
https://www.facebook.com/CLUBPETS
https://www.instagram.com/clubpets.sg/
https://www.tiktok.com/@clubpets
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Singapore Pet Festival
Organised by Citrus Media, Singapore Pet Festival is Singapore’s largest pet exhibition, bringing together pet owners, businesses, brands, professionals, and animal lovers under one roof. Through education, innovation, community engagement, and meaningful collaborations, the festival continues to promote responsible pet ownership while supporting the growth of the regional pet industry.
About Citrus Media
Citrus Media Pte Ltd is a Singapore-based events and media company dedicated to connecting communities through innovative exhibitions, digital media, and lifestyle platforms. The company is the organiser of flagship events including Singapore Pet Festival (SGPF), Singapore Cat Carnival, Blissful One-Stop Wedding Show (BOWS), and operates the Clubpets ecosystem, comprising Clubpets Marketplace, VIPaws Membership Programme, and digital media channels. Citrus Media is committed to creating meaningful experiences that bring together consumers, brands, and industry partners.
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwgVyMKMj2M
Spectacular Mountain Scenery, Nature‘s Air Conditioner
From the dazzling urban energy of Guiyang’s Qingyun Market to the starry nightscape of Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village, and from the majestic Huangguestu Waterfall to the sky-high Huajiang Canyon Bridge—the “world’s highest bridge”—every corner of Guizhou is a masterpiece worth pausing for.
“Guizhou’s summer feels like natural air conditioning,” shared a young Vietnamese travel influencer. “The seamless blend of daytime nature and vibrant city life made our journey incredibly exciting and fulfilling”
Link: https://www.guizhoutravel.com/feature/list
Immersive Culture & Play your way Through Guizhou
During their trip, the influencers dressed in exquisite traditional Miao costumes for stunning social media photos against the backdrop of historic wooden stilt houses. They also explored urban landmarks like Qingyun Market and Colorful Guizhou Town, experiencing the fusion of local heritage and modern trends amidst neon lights and bustling night markets. Food-wise, local delicacies like sour fish soup, beef rice noodles, and Siwawa (veggie wraps) continuously delighted their palates, offering a perfect mix of cultural depth and trendy adventures.
Pack your bags and go: Effortless Travel to Your Next Getaway
With direct flights now operating from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Guiyang—taking just over three hours—traveling to Guizhou has never been easier. Supported by China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy and a safe, welcoming environment, Guizhou is becoming the ideal and ultimate “summer escape” destination for young Vietnamese travelers.
Guizhou is actively building a world-class tourism product system tailored for the international market, centering on the core themes of “Summer Escape + Eco-tourism + Cultural Experience.”
Pack your bags this summer and embark on your own adventure to mystical Guizhou!
Discover more of mystical Guizhou: www.guizhoutravel.com
Hashtag: #Guizhou #Vietnam #SummerEscape
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
