Category: Business

Shares of Tupperware (TUP) have surged by about 165% this week and more than 300% over the last month, with no apparent reason behind the sudden increase. The Florida-based container company, which has been struggling with declining sales and even warned of potential bankruptcy in April, has become the latest target of meme traders.

In June, the New York Stock Exchange notified Tupperware of its noncompliance with the exchange’s rules due to its low market capitalization and average closing price. However, in July, BlackRock stepped in as an investment partner, possibly to help manage Tupperware’s debt load. Despite this, no significant announcements or changes have been made since then.

The surge in Tupperware’s stock price has been accompanied by a threefold increase in trading volume compared to the prior 30-day average, according to FactSet. Posts on Reddit suggest that retail investors are betting on a short squeeze, similar to what happened with GameStop and AMC. Like these other meme stocks, Tupperware shares have been heavily shorted, indicating that many traders are betting on further declines.

However, investors should be cautious. Meme stocks are known for their volatility, with dramatic highs and lows. Libra Investment Services warned on Friday that investors in Tupperware face a high risk of loss. Despite the recent surge, Tupperware shares are still down nearly 30% year to date.

This sudden rise in Tupperware’s stock price highlights the influence of retail investors and the power of social media platforms like Reddit. It also raises questions about the sustainability of such increases and the potential risks for investors caught up in the meme stock frenzy.

Ford Motor Co. has announced a recall of 870,000 F-150 trucks in the United States due to a potential wiring issue that could lead to an unexpected activation of the electric parking brake. The recall, which was announced on Friday, July 28, covers F-150 trucks from the 2021 through 2023 model years equipped with a single exhaust system.

According to a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issue arises from the possibility of contact with the rear axle housing, which may damage the wiring harness and cause the electric parking brake to activate unexpectedly. The automaker has received 918 warranty claims and three field reports for the wire chafing condition in North America. Of these, 299 indicated the electric parking brake had activated unintentionally, including 19 while driving. However, Ford has stated that it is not aware of any crashes or injuries related to the recall.

The recall comes as a significant move for Ford, given the popularity of the F-150 model. The F-150 is a flagship product for Ford and has been the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. for several decades. The recall could potentially affect the company’s reputation and customer trust, especially considering the large number of vehicles involved.

As part of the recall process, Ford dealers will install a protective tie strap, tape wrap, and replace the harness as necessary. The company is expected to begin notifying owners about the recall in the coming weeks. Owners will be able to take their vehicles to a Ford or Lincoln dealer to have the repairs done free of charge.

This recall underscores the importance of rigorous quality control and safety measures in the automotive industry. As automakers continue to innovate and introduce new technologies, ensuring the safety and reliability of these systems remains paramount.

As a small business owner, you may need a car to drive customers and clients to meetings, attend appointments, or run other work-related errands. Fortunately, the IRS allows car expenses to be written off on your tax returns as business deductions.

The actual expense method or the standard mileage rate are two ways to write off car expenses for the business. Choose the one that works best for you, and keep a detailed log of all your business miles.

Definition of a Business

A business is an establishment aiming to profit from producing or selling goods or services. It can be for-profit or non-profit.

Businesses come in all sizes and types, from small sole proprietorships to large international corporations. They all share one thing: they want to earn profits, a core component of any successful enterprise.

The monetary motive is the central component of a business, and it drives everything else that happens within that establishment. Profits may be in cash, securities, or a barter-style trade of one good for another.

There are three main types of businesses: retail, manufacturing, and service. In each case, the seller offers products and intangible goods.

In retail, goods are sold to consumers or other businesses. Some examples of retailers include restaurants, supermarkets, clothing stores, and department stores.

Some businesses offer services in addition to products, such as legal advice firms and consultancy agencies. These businesses are called service providers and can include anything from courier services to transport companies.

In manufacturing, the producer uses raw materials and machinery to create a product sold directly to consumers or a retailer, who distributes the product to them. 

Determining the Percentage of Business Use

Whether you drive for business or personal reasons, it’s essential to understand how to determine the percentage of your vehicle your business needs. Using this information will help you save money on your taxes and avoid penalties or audits by the IRS.

The IRS has two methods for calculating your car’s percentage of business use: the standard mileage rate method and actual vehicle expense tracking. Both ways require tracking your car’s expenses. The standard mileage rate is more convenient through an app.  The app can offer a fantastic way for them to track their miles. It functions similarly to a GPS tracker and records the miles the user has driven their automobile in a particular area. It is also possible to connect the app to a phone for convenience.

For example, a self-employed person who works at his workshop and frequent trips to various customer homes might estimate he spends 70% of his time driving for work. He would then multiply the total amount of his vehicle’s expenses by that percentage to determine his business-use percentage.

This calculation is much less complicated than a mileage log but requires notes and records to support your claim. This method can result in more significant tax breaks for some drivers but not all.

If you’re self-employed with a car you use for personal and business purposes, consider claiming it as a tax write-off. This will allow you to deduct your vehicle expenses, including parking fees, gas, oil changes, repairs, etc. However, you should always keep a record of your vehicle’s expenses to ensure that you can prove your business use.

Determining the Percentage of Personal Use

When you own your business, writing off your car for business use is one of the significant tax deductions you can take. It can reduce your income taxes and self-employment tax).

The IRS guidelines for writing off your car for business use vary depending on whether you own or lease your vehicle. If you own the car, you can choose between the standard mileage rate and actual expense methods to calculate your deduction.

For example, self-employed handyman drives between his workshop and various customer homes where he makes repairs. He also frequently travels to the hardware store to purchase tools and other equipment he uses.

As a result, he has approximately 50% of his miles in his car for business use. He can claim.

Regardless of which method you choose to calculate your deduction, keeping detailed records of your vehicle is essential. This can include mileage logs, bills, receipts, and more. A detailed description can help you defend your claim in case of an audit.

Determining the Percentage of Business Mileage

If you use your car for business, you may be eligible to write off some vehicle expenses. This could mean a significant tax break, but you must be sure you’re eligible.

The IRS considers the percentage of your car’s business mileage as an essential factor in determining how much of your car’s expenses can be written off. You can calculate your deduction using the standard mileage rate or the actual expense method.

When using the standard mileage rate, you multiply the miles you drive for business by the standard mileage rate to get your deduction. The average mileage rate changes annually, so check the IRS website for the current rate.

You can also claim the cost of parking and tolls for business trips. This is more complex but can help you save money in the long run.

Whether you choose the expense method or the standard mileage rate, you must keep records that back up your deduction claim. This includes a daily log of your miles and the purpose of your trip.

It would help if you also considered whether you’re driving between locations, such as from your home to a client’s office. These trips can be deducted under the business mileage rate, but not if you make a personal use trip between rides.

Packaging is one of the most important aspects of any online business. It can help make a great first impression, increase your brand reputation, and protect your products better.

It can also maximize your social media exposure and improve customer retention. If your boxes have your company name and logo, they will be easier for customers to recognize when they see them at the post office or a storefront.

Durability

When you’re shipping products, they must arrive intact and safe. This is where quality custom shipping boxes come into play. They’re the perfect way to showcase your brand and ensure your products safely reach their destination.

The durability of the boxes you use to ship your products should be considered when choosing a design. Choosing a material that can withstand the weight of your goods and any other factors that could affect their quality in transit is essential. Using cheap, flimsy materials can cost you a lot in the long run, as your items will likely get damaged when they’re delivered to their destinations.

Fortunately, there are many options for high-quality custom shipping boxes. These include heavy-duty corrugated cardboard reinforced with a fluting layer that can withstand the weight of your items. Other options include end-loading boxes with top and bottom flaps overlapping for even more protection. They’re also available in biodegradable options so that you can appeal to eco-conscious customers.

Branding

Whether you are an e-commerce business or own a physical store, you can’t afford to overlook the importance of packaging. A well-branded box will make your business stand out, bringing in new customers and increasing brand awareness. A branded package will also improve your customer’s overall experience. This is especially important if you’re selling a high-end product that requires careful handling.

In addition, a custom-printed shipping box will be more recognizable than a stock box, making it an easy way to increase your online presence. It will help your business attract new customers, build brand loyalty, and drive sales. Another great benefit of a branded shipping box is that it will add an element of surprise and delight to the unboxing process. This will encourage people to share their experiences on social media, which can help you boost your brand’s visibility online.

Convenience

Small business owners who use custom shipping boxes can save time, money, and space in transit. They can also ensure that the products they ship are adequately packed and protected. Custom boxes can be sized and shaped to fit the exact dimensions of your products, making them easier to transport. They can also be customized to match your brand and marketing messages. Another benefit of custom boxes is that they can be made from sustainable materials. These boxes are often printed on cardboard or Kraft, which are easy to recycle and decompose. Packaging is one of the most impactful parts of a customer’s purchase journey. It influences the way a customer views your product and how they feel about your brand. Creating strong, individualized boxes can help your business stand out from the competition and create a lasting impression on customers. The right box will also convey your company’s values and show you care about quality, waste reduction, and product protection.

Security

Custom boxes are a smart way to secure your products during shipping. These boxes are designed specifically to fit the contents, eliminating unnecessary space that can cause a product to move around in transit and get damaged. They also provide a better fit for your most often shipped items, as opposed to stock-sized options that may need to be able to hold your products correctly.

Packaging that reflects your brand and connects customers to your business at every touchpoint is essential to converting first-time purchasers into repeat consumers. Using sustainable and eco-friendly packaging can appeal to environmentally conscious customers while improving your overall brand experience and helping to maintain your reputation for high-quality and down-to-earth service.

Sustainability

When packaging your products, sustainable options are in high demand. These options reduce waste and emissions and positively impact the planet. Custom shipping boxes made from eco-friendly corrugated cardboard are an easy way to make a big environmental difference. They are produced without harmful chemicals and have highly recycled material, ensuring your business goes green while saving you money in the long run.

Another benefit of sustainable packaging is that it can help strengthen your brand. Choosing a packaging company that emphasizes sustainable practices will make it easy for your customers to see that you care about the planet, which can lead to customer loyalty and increased sales. Sustainability is a hot topic in the business world, and knowing your role as a brand leader is important. As more and more consumers become ethical shoppers, they’re looking for businesses that offer a green option when packaging their purchases.

Companies of all sizes and sectors have an online presence in today’s digital environment. As a result, the fight for buyers’ attention is severe. Marketers can now reach their target audience through digital channels such as social media, search engines, websites, text messages, and email, referred to as digital marketing or online marketing. Digital marketing can assist you in better engaging prospects, converting leads into loyal, happy customers, and ultimately converting leads into loyal, thrilled customers. However, starting a digital marketing journey, especially as a start-up or small business with a limited online presence, can sometimes be intimidating and frustrating. Blurn has a team of digital marketing experts who came up with a set of fail-safe digital marketing tips that will get you ready for the new year and bolster your digital marketing efforts.

• Know your customer

Understanding your target demographic is a critical first step in digital marketing. Who exactly are they? What are their wants, needs, and interests? What do they do with their free time? You may wish to perform market research to identify and understand your customers. You can begin to design customised marketing initiatives that speak to your target customer’s interests once you have a good image of them.

• Have a quality online presence

It is vital to have both high-quality web and mobile sites. When we talk about quality, we mean factors like speed, design, user interface, and security. It is insufficient to simply have a website that delivers information or sells a product or service. Websites must be optimised for both desktop computers and mobile devices. Mobile site design should be simple and responsive, with wider links to account for users clicking with their fingers.

• Focus on the long term

As a new business, you should focus on client satisfaction instead of short-term goals and immediate profits. While there may be pressure to deliver leads that convert into sales each month, it is much better to focus on the client’s requirements. Utilising short-sighted approaches that attract some attention and may result in a temporary spike will not set you or your clients up for long-term success. As marketers, we help you prioritise demand generation through useful and customer-centric efforts.

• Maintain your online reputation

To present a great image to clients, you must always strive to maintain a positive internet reputation. In addition to managing your social media pages, you’ll need to create and manage your company’s listing on review sites like Google Maps and Yelp. Potential customers are more likely to choose your company for their needs if they see that you have a good rating, positive reviews, and respond to any complaints professionally.

• Regularly optimise your website for SEO and conversions

Since your website is the entry point to revenue, it must be optimised for conversions. This includes making sure it’s simple to use, has a clear call to action, loads quickly, and has a frictionless checkout process. Conversion optimisation on your website might result in a considerable rise in online sales. Your website can also assist you in gathering crucial client data such as top purchases, browsing history, and click paths. You’ll discover potential for future optimisations and be able to target clients more effectively by studying and discovering patterns.

We understand that it may seem intimidating at first, but with the correct expert assistance and coaching, you will be able to get started in the right way. If you are in need of guidance, feel free to explore the digital marketing services offered by Blurn. A great digital marketing strategy is the only way for a firm to thrive in today’s digital environment, as we’ve all witnessed during the last year.

Are you looking for a rewarding new business venture? If so, you might want to consider starting your own trucking business. There can be good money to be made in the trucking industry, and it can put you in control of your career and working hours. There are many good reasons to start your own trucking business, and this post will outline a few of the key benefits. It will also take a look at a few of the key considerations when starting a trucking business. With this in mind, keep reading to discover the main benefits and drawbacks of starting your own trucking business.

You Can Control Your Workload

One of the main benefits of starting your own trucking business is that you can control your own workload. You can pick and choose jobs so that you can control your earnings as well as prioritize a healthy work-life balance. This level of control is not possible in many jobs these days, and this can be a major perk.

There Is a Huge Amount of Work Available on Load Boards

You will also find that now is a good time to start a trucking business because there is an abundance of work available, along with a truck driver shortage. You can find a lot of this shipping work on load boards where you can browse hundreds of different jobs available and pick and choose your work. This should make it easy to find work from the very start and allow you to earn good money.

The Work Can Be Demanding

While there are many benefits to a truck driving career and an abundance of work, you will find that it can be demanding. You will often be working to tight deadlines, and the stress of this can quickly add up, especially when you have to cover many miles each day. This is why you need to be prepared for this and know how to keep your stress levels down both on the job and off.

There Is a Lot of Alone Time

When you work as a truck driver, you will find that there is a lot of alone time. This can be both a blessing and a curse – it is important that people have alone time, but you will also find that too much can be isolating. This is something that you need to be aware of and consider when starting this type of business.

The Work Is Engaging

A major benefit of starting a trucking business is that the work is engaging. Instead of being stuck at a desk indoors all day, you will make a living from being out and about and exploring new areas. If you like spending time behind the wheel, you should find truck driving to be engaging and good fun.

These are a few of the main benefits and drawbacks to consider if you are thinking about starting your own trucking business. For many, this can be a rewarding business venture that gives you a high level of control over your work and life.