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  • Businesses Adopt Commission-Free Flyers to Reduce High Fees From Delivery and Deal Apps

    Local stores are using Secret World App’s digital flyers to promote deals, memberships, and hiring—without commission fees.

    We’re not replacing anything. We’re just adding a channel that works just as well, with more control. ”
    — Kaixiong Zhang, Founder, Secret World

    NEW YORK CITY, NY, UNITED STATES, January 5, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Local businesses across the United States are increasingly searching for ways to reach customers without paying high commissions to third-party delivery apps and deal platforms. As platform fees, forced discounts, and pay-to-play visibility models continue to rise, many small businesses are experimenting with simpler, direct alternatives that help them keep control of margins and customer relationships.

    One emerging approach is the use of commission-free local Flyers, which allow businesses to send offers directly to nearby customers instead of relying on intermediaries. Rather than routing orders, reservations, or promotions through platforms that take a percentage of every transaction, Flyers focus on driving direct foot traffic, in-store purchases, and first-party customer engagement.

    This model is now being adopted through platforms such as Secret World, a location-based app designed to help people earn, flip, and save locally while giving businesses tools to reach customers without commissions.

    Rising Pressure From Platform Fees

    For many restaurants, retailers, and service providers, delivery apps and deal platforms offer exposure but often at a high cost. Industry reports and business owners frequently cite commission rates that can range from double digits to more than 30 percent per transaction, along with additional marketing fees required to stay visible.

    “These platforms can help with reach, but the tradeoff is margin and control,” said a spokesperson for Secret World. “For many small businesses, especially in dense local markets, the question has become whether there’s a way to reach nearby customers directly without giving up a share of every sale.”

    As a result, some businesses are shifting focus away from platform-dependent growth and back toward local discovery, repeat customers, and neighborhood-level engagement.

    How Commission-Free Flyers Work

    Unlike traditional deal sites or delivery marketplaces, Flyers inside the Secret World app are not tied to transaction commissions. Businesses create simple, time-bound offers that appear to nearby users on a live map. Customers can discover these offers based on location and intent, then choose how to engage—by visiting the store, redeeming in person, or contacting the business directly.

    Because Flyers are not tied to a per-order fee, businesses retain full control over pricing, fulfillment, and customer relationships. Flyers can be used for a wide range of purposes, including:
        •    Driving foot traffic during slow hours
        •    Promoting limited-time local deals
        •    Announcing pop-ups, events, or new inventory
        •    Offering perks to nearby customers without public discounts

    The emphasis is on visibility and discovery rather than transactions being owned by a third party.

    A Shift Toward Direct Local Discovery

    The renewed interest in Flyers reflects a broader shift in how local businesses think about customer acquisition. Instead of optimizing solely for delivery or deal rankings, many owners are prioritizing tools that help them stay visible within their immediate neighborhood.

    Secret World App was designed around this local-first philosophy. The app presents nearby opportunities—such as tasks, pop-ups, savings, and Flyers—on a live map, allowing users to discover what’s happening around them in real time. For businesses, this creates a way to reach customers who are already nearby and motivated to engage locally.

    “Local commerce doesn’t always need a middleman,” the company spokesperson added. “In many cases, businesses just want a way to tell people around them what they offer, today, without paying a commission to do it.”

    Complement, Not Replacement

    Commission-free Flyers are not positioned as a replacement for every delivery app or deal platform. Instead, they offer businesses an additional channel—one that emphasizes direct relationships and local control.

    Some businesses continue to use third-party platforms for reach while supplementing them with Flyers to improve margins and build direct customer awareness. Others use Flyers as a primary tool to test demand, promote in-store experiences, or re-engage local customers who prefer to shop nearby.

    This flexibility has made Flyers particularly appealing to independent businesses, new storefronts, and operators looking to experiment without committing to long-term platform contracts or revenue sharing.

    Growing Interest From Business Owners

    As more business owners search for alternatives to commission-heavy platforms, interest in Flyer-based models continues to grow. Search trends around “delivery app commission alternatives” and “Groupon alternatives for small businesses” reflect a broader demand for tools that balance exposure with sustainability.

    By focusing on location-based discovery rather than transactions, platforms like Secret World aim to give businesses more options in how they attract customers—without locking them into a single channel or fee structure.

    About Secret World App

    Secret World is a location-based app that helps people earn, flip, and save locally while enabling businesses to reach nearby customers through tools like commission-free Flyers. Built around real-time maps and neighborhood discovery, Secret World connects users with local opportunities and helps businesses promote offers directly, without transaction commissions.

    Businesses and users can explore Flyers and other local features directly through the Secret World app.

    Kaixiong Zhang
    Fastbuck LLC
    +1 6466788585
    email us here

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  • HR Tech Event Marketing: Two Conference Activations That Turned Attendees Into Superfans

    Activations that prioritize human connection, emotion, and participation consistently outperform static sponsorships.”
    — Evan White

    LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, January 5, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — As HR technology conferences become more crowded and more expensive, vendors are questioning whether traditional booths, swag, and sponsorships still deliver meaningful returns. A new analysis from Evan White PR highlights two real-world HR tech event activations that broke through conference noise and turned passive attendees into highly engaged brand superfans.

    The full breakdown, Two HR Tech Activations That Turned Conference Crowds Into Superfans, is now live on EvanWhitePR.com and outlines how experience-driven event strategy can outperform traditional conference marketing.

    Why Traditional HR Tech Conference Marketing Is Failing

    Most HR tech conferences follow a familiar formula: exhibit halls, badge scans, sponsored happy hours, and post-event email follow-ups. While visibility may be high, memorability is often low. According to Evan White PR, this approach creates impressions without connection and conversations without continuity.

    The newly published article argues that modern HR and talent acquisition buyers remember moments, not messaging. Activations that prioritize human connection, emotion, and participation consistently outperform static sponsorships.

    Activation Strategy One: Making a Conference Space the Moment Everyone Talks About

    The first activation analyzed reframed an existing conference venue into one of the most effective HR tech event activations of the year by prioritizing participation over promotion. Instead of relying on booth traffic, the activation focused on:

    – Live, unscripted conversations with industry voices
    – Unexpected entertainment to dissolve awkward networking
    – A curated guest list that created energy, exclusivity, and organic buzz

    By designing the experience around participation rather than promotion, attendees stayed longer, engaged more deeply, and left with a clear emotional association, something traditional booths rarely achieve.

    Activation Strategy Two: Using an Off-Site Experience to Drive On-Site Momentum

    The second activation took place outside the convention center but was designed to amplify, not distract from, the main event. This off-site experience blended environment, timing, and guest curation to create natural storytelling moments that carried back onto the conference floor.

    Rather than pulling attendees away, the experience sent them back energized, increasing booth engagement and follow-up conversations. Attendees didn’t just attend, they shared, talked, and returned with intent.

    Why These HR Tech Activations Worked

    The article provides a clear framework for building an experience-driven HR tech conference strategy that drives engagement beyond the show floor. According to Evan White PR, both activations succeeded because they followed the same core principles:

    – Experience beats exposure
    – Emotion drives memory
    – Community outperforms foot traffic
    – Content capture extends conference ROI

    These principles align with how modern HR tech buyers evaluate vendors, not just by product features, but by trust, relevance, and shared values.

    A Playbook for HR Tech Events in 2026

    As HR tech companies plan conference budgets for 2026, the article encourages teams to rethink success metrics. Instead of optimizing for scans and giveaways, the focus should be on creating moments that spark conversation before, during, and after the event.

    The full article provides practical guidance for designing activations that generate buzz, content, and meaningful follow-up, without relying on oversized booths or inflated sponsorships.

    About Evan White PR
    Evan White PR is a strategic communications and brand experience firm that helps tech companies turn events, launches, and ideas into stories that earn attention. The firm specializes in experiential strategy, earned media, and narrative development for companies navigating competitive markets.
    Learn more at https://www.evanwhitepr.com

    Evan White
    Evan White PR
    +1 509-995-9105
    email us here
    Visit us on social media:
    LinkedIn

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  • Dental Expert Dawn Strohschein, DDS, Discusses Early Childhood Airway Health for HelloNation

    How does airway health affect brain growth in children?

    GILLETTE, WY, UNITED STATES, January 5, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — How does airway health affect brain growth in children? According to HelloNation, Dental Expert Dawn Strohschein, DDS of Pronghorn Family Dentistry in Gillette, Wyoming, explains that a child’s airway plays a critical role in both physical and cognitive development during the preschool years. By age five, a child’s brain reaches over 90 percent of its adult size, making the quality of their breathing and sleep essential to healthy growth. If the airway is restricted during sleep, oxygen intake can be compromised, which may affect learning, emotional balance, and overall well-being.

    Dr. Strohschein notes that airway health in early childhood is influenced by factors as simple as head and neck position during rest. Even slight changes can alter airflow through the nose and mouth. For some children, supportive tools such as a “tooth pillow” can help guide jaw and tongue placement, promoting open airways and steady breathing during sleep. Proper airway alignment supports deeper stages of rest, which are vital for memory retention, mood regulation, and brain development.

    The impact of airway health extends beyond sleep. Children who primarily breathe through their noses often have healthier oral environments because nasal breathing helps maintain saliva flow. Mouth breathing, by contrast, can dry the mouth, reducing its natural ability to wash away food particles, neutralize acids, and control bacteria. Reduced saliva flow increases the risk of cavities and gum inflammation in early childhood. Encouraging nasal breathing not only improves airway function but also protects the teeth and gums from decay.

    Nasal breathing also improves overall efficiency because the air is warmed, filtered, and humidified before reaching the lungs. This process can reduce or even eliminate asthma symptoms. It further increases nitric oxide production, which strengthens immune defense and supports lung function.

    Airway development also affects facial growth and dental alignment. The muscles used in breathing, swallowing, and chewing guide the formation of the jaw and midface. When airway restrictions or chronic mouth breathing limit these functions, growth patterns can shift, leading to narrower arches, crowded teeth, or elongated facial shapes. These changes can contribute to bite problems and even further airway limitations. Addressing these patterns early can reduce the likelihood of extensive orthodontic treatment later in life.

    Sleep quality is another key factor in airway-related health concerns. Children who snore, breathe heavily, or have pauses in breathing during sleep may be experiencing sleep-disordered breathing. While enlarged tonsils or adenoids are common causes, jaw position, tongue posture, and muscle tone can also be contributing factors. Poor sleep quality in early childhood has been linked to attention difficulties, hyperactivity, mood changes, and delayed academic progress. In some cases, these issues are mistaken for behavioral conditions when the real problem is insufficient deep sleep caused by airway restrictions.

    Early recognition and treatment of airway concerns lead to better outcomes. Specially trained dentists, sleep specialists, and myofunctional therapists often collaborate to evaluate breathing patterns, oral muscle use, and sleep quality. This multidisciplinary approach allows for targeted solutions such as oral exercises to strengthen the tongue and jaw, adjustments to the sleep environment to encourage nasal breathing, or the use of growth-guidance orthodontic appliances to expand the airway.

    Parents play an important role in spotting potential airway issues. Signs that may indicate a problem include frequent snoring, habitual mouth breathing, teeth grinding, restless sleep, bedwetting beyond the usual age range, and ongoing morning fatigue. While short-term mouth breathing during illness is normal, persistent patterns should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

    Dr. Strohschein emphasizes that early adjustments can create lifelong improvements. Children who breathe well and sleep soundly often perform better in school, have stronger immune systems, and show greater emotional resilience. Supporting airway health during these formative years is not just about preventing problems later on; it helps children enter their school years with the focus, energy, and confidence they need to succeed.

    Early Childhood & Airway explains how proper breathing, quality sleep, and nasal airway function support brain growth, facial development, and long-term health, as discussed by Dental Expert Dawn Strohschein, DDS, of Gillette, Wyoming, in HelloNation.

    About HelloNation
    HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative “edvertising” approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

    Pat McCabe
    HelloNation
    +1 (585) 427-0020
    email us here

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  • Greater Phoenix Urban League Announces 32nd Annual Fundraising Tournament, ‘Golf with Purpose,’ at Troon North Golf Club

    Event to be held on the MLK holiday, supporting programs that empower Arizona youth, adults, and families

    PHOENIX, AZ, UNITED STATES, January 5, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — The Greater Phoenix Urban League (GPUL) is proud to announce its 32nd Annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser, now named the Golf with Purpose Urban League Tournament Fundraiser. The tournament has moved to Monday, January 19, 2026, at the iconic Troon North Golf Club in Scottsdale.

    This year’s tournament will be held on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, offering the community a meaningful way to honor Dr. King’s legacy through service, unity, and impactful support for families across the Valley.

    The event will feature an 8:30 a.m. registration and breakfast, followed by a 10:00 a.m. shotgun start, and a post-tournament celebration with food and festivities for all participants. Nestled in the foothills of Pinnacle Peak, Troon North provides one of Arizona’s premier desert golf experiences, making this year’s tournament the most scenic yet.

    Proceeds from the tournament directly benefit GPUL’s essential programs, including education initiatives, homeownership assistance, and job readiness and workforce development, all aimed toward creating economic opportunity and stability for underserved communities.

    For more than 80 years, GPUL has been a leading force in advancing equity, access, and empowerment throughout the Phoenix region. This year’s tournament gives supporters a new and exciting way to stand with GPUL in continuing the work Dr. King envisioned: uplifting communities and ensuring that every person has the opportunity to thrive.

    Sponsorship Opportunities
    A wide range of sponsorship levels is available. Benefits vary by level and may include foursomes, tee signage, social media visibility, raffle item recognition, and on-site brand presence.

    Individual player registration is $400, and a foursome is $1,600. Players, sponsors, and supporters may register or request an invoice at https://gphxul.ejoinme.org/gpulgolf.

    Registration details are due by Friday, January 9, 2026. For more information, please email events@gphxul.org.

    ###

    About the Greater Phoenix Urban League
    The mission of the Greater Phoenix Urban League is to serve as an agent of change, supporting minorities and those in need in achieving economic and social equality. GPUL focuses on five foundational areas: economic empowerment, housing, education, civic engagement, and health and wellness—working to create a better, more equitable Arizona for all. Learn more about the Greater Phoenix Urban League here.

    LaTricia H Woods
    Mahogany Xan Communications
    +1 480-374-1908
    email us here
    Visit us on social media:
    LinkedIn
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    Facebook

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  • Dr. Ruth T. Logan to Appear on Women In Power TV

    FL, UNITED STATES, January 5, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Willa Kammerer, founder of Firestarter, is set to appear on Women In Power TV, where she will share how trusting your instincts, building a high-caliber personal brand, and creating aligned systems can unlock the next level of leadership, impact, and legacy.

    Women In Power is a cinematic docu-series showcasing actors, athletes, entrepreneurs, and other iconic figures by capturing their personal and professional journeys and lessons. This unique TV show, hosted by Celebrity Entrepreneur Rudy Mawer, features many influential people from all walks of life, whose stories can be viewed on the show’s website.

    In her episode, Kammerer explores her evolution from award-winning documentary director serving elite institutional clients to the founder of a premium brand accelerator built to help entrepreneurs and professionals scale with clarity and confidence.

    She breaks down why many high-performing leaders get stuck without the right structure, messaging, and systems—and how building an aligned brand ecosystem creates momentum, premium opportunities, and sustainable growth.

    Viewers will walk away with powerful leadership insights, actionable brand strategy, and a renewed belief that you don’t have to follow someone else’s blueprint to win—you can carve your own.

    “Trust your instincts and don’t dim your ambition to make others comfortable,” said Kammerer.

    Willa’s episode will be available soon on Inside Success Network streaming platforms. In the meantime, you can find out more by visiting https://cast.womeninpowertv.com/willa-kammerer.

    Willa Kammerer
    Women in Power
    email us here

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  • All Aces Promotional Staffing Shares Expert Tips for Scheduling Staff During High-Demand Events

    As marketers prepare for 2026 major events/high traffic activations, All Aces Promotional Staffing has tips for smooth execution and exceptional experiences.

    At All Aces Promotional Staffing, we believe quality staffing isn’t just about filling a roster; it’s about bringing energy, professionalism, and brand-authenticity to every event.”
    — Lauren Raimondi, Owner and CEO

    NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES, January 5, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — As brands and marketers prepare for major events or high traffic holiday activations in 2026 that draw crowds and peak consumer engagement, All Aces Promotional Staffing is offering actionable guidance for scheduling promotional and event staff to ensure smooth execution and exceptional guest experiences.

    “At All Aces Promotional Staffing, we believe quality staffing isn’t just about filling a roster, said Lauren Raimondi, Owner and CEO. “It’s about bringing energy, professionalism, and brand-authenticity to every event. In an uncertain hiring climate, our commitment to compliance, training, and a nationwide pool of experienced talent ensures our clients can still deliver standout experiences. We’re proud to help brands connect meaningfully with their audiences, and we’re ready to support their 2026 campaigns with the reliability and creativity they deserve.”

    Plan Ahead to Prevent Staffing Gaps
    Effective event staffing begins long before the event itself. Industry best practices emphasize the importance of planning schedules well in advance, ideally 3-4 weeks before a high-demand event, to avoid last-minute chaos and give staff time to confirm availability and prepare. Early scheduling also allows organizers to balance workloads and reduce burnout.

    Balance Staff Skills and Roles
    Organizing your workforce based on specific strengths and roles ensures coverage where it matters most. Deploying seasoned team members across critical shifts, and pairing them with less experienced staff, maintains service quality throughout the event.

    Build in Flexibility for Real-Time Changes
    High-demand events often bring unexpected changes. Incorporate floaters or backup staff who can step in when needed, and use scheduling tools to quickly adjust shifts or communicate updates in real time.

    Communicate Schedules Clearly
    Sharing schedules early and using centralized communication channels keeps everyone informed and reduces the risk of no-shows or confusion on event day.

    Leverage Agency Expertise
    Since 2007, All Aces Promotional Staffing has been working with event and conference coordinators, marketing and advertising agencies, brands, and PR firms to deliver flawless events, from trade shows and conferences to experiential marketing programs and mobile marketing tours.

    Deep, Nationwide Talent Network — This professional promotional staffing agency maintains a large, vetted database of brand ambassadors, event staff, and promotional professionals across the United States, allowing clients to source qualified staff even when hiring demand spikes.

    Compliance & Payroll Peace of Mind — All staff are onboarded as W-2 employees nationwide, ensuring compliance with labor laws and protecting both clients and workers.

    Flexible, Scalable Solutions — Turnkey staffing services are available for everything from small regional pop-ups to large-scale multi-city activations, conferences, and experiential tours.

    Proven Growth and Industry Recognition — As an award-winning, woman-owned business recognized by the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in America, All Aces Promotional Staffing has demonstrated resilience and adaptability in a shifting market.

    For more insights or help planning your staffing strategy, visit acespromo.com.

    Lauren Raimondi
    All Aces Promotional Staffing
    +1 646-829-1602
    email us here
    Visit us on social media:
    LinkedIn
    Instagram
    Facebook

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  • Business RadioX® Announces Leadership Change in Gwinnett

    Garrett Ervin appointed President and CEO as studio looks ahead
    to continued growth and community impact

    DULUTH, GA, UNITED STATES, January 5, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — One of the nation’s largest producers of podcast programming is announcing an exciting leadership transition at its top-rated studio in Gwinnett County.

    Garrett Ervin has been named President and CEO of the Business RadioX® studio located in Duluth, Georgia. A respected corporate leader with extensive management experience in the water and environmental testing industry, Ervin brings a strong commitment to the network’s mission of producing high-quality programming while amplifying the voice of the local business community.

    “Business RadioX® has created an everlasting legacy of distinction in content creation within the Gwinnett business community,” said Garrett. “I am honored and enthusiastic to continue the standard of excellence in promoting Gwinnett businesses. The most exciting aspect of this opportunity personally will be engaging with the great people throughout our area.”

    Ervin succeeds veteran broadcaster Mike Sammond, who is moving on to new professional challenges following 13 years of building the Gwinnett studio into one of the network’s leading voices in the market.

    “It has been an honor to build the Gwinnett studio into a trusted voice for the local business community,” said Sammond. “Garrett is the right leader for this next chapter. His experience, values, and commitment to quality programming and community engagement make him uniquely suited to lead the studio forward, and I’m excited to see the impact he will have.”

    “Garrett brings the leadership, vision, and operational experience needed to continue growing our presence in Gwinnett,” said Stone Payton, Managing Partner of Business RadioX®. “At the same time, we are deeply grateful to Mike for the foundation he built as his leadership shaped one of the strongest studios in our network. This transition reflects both continuity and momentum for the future.”

    Since opening in October of 2012, the Gwinnett studio has produced and shared more than 3,200 inspiring and informative storytelling interviews with executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders across virtually every industry. During that time, more than 1,200 podcast episodes have originated from the studio.

    The studio has served as the official podcast production partner for a wide range of prominent businesses and organizations including Applied Information, the Atlanta Gladiators, Centurian Advisory Group, Comcast Business, Eastside Medical Center, the Gas South District, the German-American Chamber of Commerce, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, the Mitsubishi Electric Classic, Regions Bank, Sandler Training, Silverton Mortgage, Subaru, Taillefer Commercial Group, and Waffle House.

    Two of the network’s most popular and award-winning signature series originate from Gwinnett, including Celebrating Powerhouse Women and the studio’s flagship program Gwinnett Business Radio. Additional well-known programs produced in Gwinnett have included Case in Point, Injury Insider, Leader Dialogue, Marketing Matters, Silver Lining in the Cloud, Status Life with Leta, The Leader’s Commute, and Wealth Matters.

    Located inside the Gas South Convention Center on Sugarloaf Parkway, the 400-square-foot broadcast facility has been branded as the Subaru of Gwinnett Studio since 2015, when the nearby dealership secured naming rights. That decade-long partnership will continue through 2026.

    # # #

    About Business RadioX®
    Founded in 2005, Business RadioX® produces, distributes, and markets online radio shows and professional podcasts for individuals and businesses of all sizes. Its programming is available across all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and wherever listeners enjoy their favorite shows.

    Today, Business RadioX® is the nation’s fastest-growing B2B radio network, amplifying the voice of business in the markets it serves. With studios located across the country, the network provides business leaders a powerful platform to share the impactful work they are doing for their companies, communities, and professions.

    For more information, visit www.BusinessRadioX.com.

    Garrett Ervin
    Gwinnett Business Radio
    email us here

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  • Onil Gunawardana’s 5Ps of Product Adds AI-Ready Playbooks to Product Management Framework

    SAN FRANCISCO , CA, UNITED STATES, January 5, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — As product teams race to integrate Gen AI into their workflows, 5Ps of Product has expanded its core framework with AI-ready guidance. The platform was founded by Onil Gunawardana in 2013.

    The framework—organized around five pillars: Problem, Persona, Product, Platform, and Promotion—brings structure and vision to chaos. Which problems should we solve? What should we build next? How do we scale?

    Each article now includes a “How to Use With AI” section with prompts to draft first versions, workflows to stress-test assumptions, and explicit guardrails on what must remain human judgment—like strategy tradeoffs and success criteria.

    “AI can draft your first version and stress-test your logic, but the hard calls—what to build and why—still belong to product leaders,” said Onil Gunawardana, founder of 5Ps of Product.

    Onil Gunawardana has led enterprise AI product teams at Google, Snowflake, eBay, and LiveRamp. The products he helped build generated over $2 billion in incremental revenue. He holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and engineering degrees from Stanford University and Yale University. Gunawardana also co-founded Inspire, a nonprofit that has reached more than 300,000 students.

    Start learning free: https://5psofproduct.com

    ABOUT 5Ps OF PRODUCT

    5Ps of Product is a product management framework and content platform created by Onil Gunawardana. It provides evergreen models, templates, and examples that help product teams align strategy to execution and make clearer decisions, faster.

    Onil Gunawardana
    5Ps of Product
    info@5psofproduct.com

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  • 8 Consequential Sales Tax Trends For 2026, Affecting Businesses

    For companies doing business in multiple states, keeping track of all the changes and responsibilities can be a daunting task.

    2026 is the year that sales taxes go beyond bookkeeping, as c-suite executives recognize their significant influence on corporate planning, decision-making and the bottom line”
    — William Flick, Managing Partner, EisnerAmper Advisory Group, LLC

    PHILADELPHIA, PA, UNITED STATES, January 5, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — In 2025, it is estimated that there were over 500 changes to sales tax rules and regulations throughout the Country, more than in any single year ever before. In 2026, it is expected that an even greater number of changes will occur, as states continue to refine their laws to account for added types of taxable products and broadened definitions of sales tax nexus. Sales taxes grow in importance as a leading revenue generator for states – currently, they average nearly one-third of all tax revenue that most states collect.

    For companies doing business in multiple states, keeping track of all the changes and responsibilities can be a daunting task. But this complexity isn’t necessarily all bad news. “Because of the complexity, there can be many situations where multi-state companies overpay sales taxes needlessly or erroneously making them eligible for reimbursements,” according to William Flick, a Managing Director at EisnerAmper Advisory Services. He advises, “Even if a company has received a tax bill or audit request from a state does not mean that it is accurate. It should often be challenged. Because of the complexities and overlap, taxes can be incorrectly billed or software may not have been properly updated; making companies eligible for six and seven figure refunds.”

    To be mindful of refund opportunities, Flick has identified 8 of the main areas where companies can expect to see sales tax changes in 2026. They include:

    1) Broadening definitions of sales tax nexus.
    Time was when one only had to have a physical sales presence in a state to establish nexus. In 2026, nexus can be established by having non-tax connections to the state including warehouse storage, back office operations, temporary employees – even attending a trade show in that state can establish tax nexus.

    2) Expanding the definition of items to be taxed.
    The definition of items to be taxed is expanding from tangible goods that are sold and delivered within a state, to include virtual and digital items, such as software as a service (SaaS), that may even be purchased elsewhere but is utilized in a particular state.

    3) More states will be eliminating the number of transactions qualifier.
    Many states will be eliminating the number of transactions qualifier in favor of minimum volume of business done in that state.

    4) Sales taxes will have more influence on major corporate decision-making.
    At one time, sales tax was a bookkeeping item, a set number on an invoice, based on physical sale location, that got paid with little additional consideration. In 2026, sales taxes’ ever-broadening definitions of nexus and responsibility will involve c-suite executives more because of their influence on major decisions such as warehouse locations, work-from-home employees, trade shows attended and more.

    5) Some states will use sales taxes as an incentive to attract more business.
    Although many states will be raising sales taxes, some state will get more competitive with their sales tax rates in order to attract new residents & businesses.

    6) Real time sales tax collection will become more prevalent.
    Thanks to the latest technology, more states will be able to collect revenue digitally, the instant the sale is made. Cash flow will be affected because sales taxes will be collected in real time.

    7) In 2026 there will be growth in the number of sales tax audits that states conduct.
    A company’s chances of being audited will become greater in 2026, as states add to audit personnel and priority. Prudent companies will prepare in advance for an audit, often discovering that instead of owing taxes, they have a significant refund due to their overpayment.

    8) Artificial intelligence will become more of a factor in analyzing tax liability and audits.
    However, with all of AI’s benefits, there is also the potential for audit inaccuracies as updates are occurring faster than AI may be able to learn and update its recommendations. Challenging audits will continue to be a prudent activity.

    Said Flick, “2026 is the year that sales taxes go beyond bookkeeping, as c-suite executives recognize their significant influence on corporate planning, decision-making and the bottom line.”
    ———
    ABOUT: William Flick and the EisnerAmper Advisory Group

    William Flick is recognized nationally as a thought leader on the subject of business sales tax nexus and compliance. He is in the sales tax leadership at EisnerAmper, one of the largest business consulting groups in the world, comprised of EisnerAmper LLP, a licensed independent CPA firm that provides client attest services; and EisnerAmper Advisory Group LLC, an alternative practice structure that provides business advisory and non-attest services in accordance with all applicable laws, regulations, standards and codes of conduct. Prior to merging with Eisner Amper, Flick owned FM Cost Containment one of the leading forensic tax recovery firms in the United States, specializing in tax confirmation and recovery of overpayments of sales and use taxes, as well as tax audit defense, utilizing proprietary research and knowledge of little-known technicalities in the tax laws of each of the 50 states, including over 10,000 tax entities throughout the United States.

    For more information, please contact:
    William Flick
    EisnerAmper Advisory Group LLC
    40 Lloyd Ave.
    Suite 308
    Malvern, PA 19355
    Phone: 484-580-8907
    Email: william.flick@eisneramper.com

    Website: https://www.eisneramper.com/about-us/professional-directory/bill-flick/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamflick
    Twitter: https://www.x.com/BillFlickJr

    # # #

    Leo Levinson
    GroupLevinson Public Relations
    +1 215-545-4600
    email us here
    Visit us on social media:
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  • Ms. Gunjan Sharma selected for The Empowered Woman Award by IAOTP

    The International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP) will honor Gunjan Sharma at their annual awards gala in NYC at the Plaza Hotel

    NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES, January 5, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Ms. Gunjan Sharma, senior software engineer at Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC, was recently selected for The Empowered Woman Award for 2025 by the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP) for her outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to the industry.

    Inclusion with the International Association of Top Professionals is an honor in itself; only a few members in each discipline are chosen for this distinction. These special honorees are distinguished based on their professional accomplishments, academic achievements, leadership abilities, longevity in the field, other affiliations, and contributions to their communities. All Honorees are invited to attend the IAOTP annual award gala at the end of this year for a night to honor their achievements.
    www.iaotp.com/award-gala

    With close to two decades in the industry, Ms. Sharma has certainly proven herself an expert in multiple fields. As a dynamic, results driven leader, Ms. Sharma is a senior software engineer at Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC, where she leads the testing and performance validation of streaming games for PlayStation. The majority of her experience is in high tech computer-based industry developing and testing software. Her principal strengths include Quality Assurance in Windows and Linux environments, object-oriented programming, and software engineering.

    Prior technology-based roles include Senior Quality Assurance Engineer at Networks in Motion and Symantec Corp. She was also a Senior Software Engineer at National Institute of Information Technology.

    Areas of expertise include, but are not limited to software engineering, databases, web applications, quality assurance, and software development.

    Before embarking on her professional career path, Ms. Sharma earned her B.Tech in Electrical Engineering from Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur followed by her M.S. in Computer Science from California State University, Long Beach. She has also earned several certifications, including architecting in AWS, computer hardware and operating systems, networking basics, Kubernetes and neural networks and deep learning.

    Throughout her illustrious career, Ms. Sharma has received many awards and accolades and has been recognized worldwide for her accomplishments. She is a listed honoree with Marquis Who’s Who for her expertise in Software Engineering and Technology. Last year she was selected for Top Senior Software Engineer of the Year by IAOTP. This year she is being considered for a feature in TIP (Top Industry Professionals) Magazine. She will be honored at IAOTP’s annual awards gala at the iconic Plaza Hotel in New York for her selection of The Empowered Woman Award for 2026.

    The President of the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP), Stephanie Cirami, stated: “Choosing Ms. Sharma for this honor was an easy decision for our panel to make. She is inspirational, influential, and a true visionary and thought leader. We cannot wait to see her and celebrate her accomplishments at this year’s gala.”

    Looking back, Ms. Sharma attributes her success to resilience, a strong work ethic, and untiring support from her family. When not working, she enjoys singing, listening to music, working out, cooking and experimenting with both Indian and Western recipes. In the future she hopes to inspire young entrepreneurs in the technology sector.

    For more information please visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gunjanbsharma/

    About IAOTP

    The International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP) is an international boutique networking organization that handpicks the world’s finest, most prestigious top professionals from different industries. These top professionals are given an opportunity to collaborate, share their ideas, be keynote speakers, and to help influence others in their fields. This organization is not a membership that anyone can join. You have to be asked by the President or be nominated by a distinguished honorary member after a brief interview.

    IAOTP’s experts have given thousands of top prestigious professionals around the world, the recognition and credibility that they deserve and have helped in building their branding empires. IAOTP prides itself to be a one-of-a-kind boutique networking organization that hand picks only the best of the best and creates a networking platform that connects and brings these top professionals to one place.

    For More information on IAOTP please visit: www.iaotp.com

    Annette Natoli
    IAOTP
    +1 212-634-4427
    email us here
    Visit us on social media:
    LinkedIn
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    EIN Presswire provides this news content “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability
    for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this
    article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.