Mazor'sEdge – Page 117 – News and analysis on Berkshire Hathaway

Mouser Electronics Honored With Best Digital Performance Award

Post author By David Mazor
Post date June 4, 2020

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway’s Mouser Electronics, Inc., the industry’s leading New Product Introduction (NPI) distributor with the widest selection of semiconductors and electronic components, is pleased to announce that it has been honored for the second consecutive year with a top global e-commerce award from its valued partner Amphenol Corporation, a global leader in the interconnect industry. Mouser stocks the full suite of products from Amphenol and 32 of its product divisions, available on its industry-leading website, Mouser.com.

Mouser received the 2019 Best High Service Digital Performance Award from Amphenol in recognition of their outstanding sales growth in 2019.

“We are delighted to recognize Mouser for its remarkable performance in 2019,” said Adam Norwitt, CEO of Amphenol. “Mouser’s teams consistently deliver exceptional growth in the e-commerce space, and this award is a testament to their outstanding work and steadfast partnership.”

“We are greatly honored to be recognized by Amphenol for the second year in a row for our performance in the digital arena,” said Glenn Smith, President and CEO of Mouser. “Amphenol has been a highly valued partner for many years, and we look forward to many more productive years together.”

Over the past decade, Mouser has received numerous awards from Amphenol Corporation and its subsidiaries. In addition to receiving the 2018 Best High Service Digital Performance Award from Amphenol Corporation, Mouser received 2018 Distributor of the Year awards from Amphenol SV Microwave and Amphenol Industrial. Mouser also previously received Amphenol Corporation’s 2015 Best Global Performance Award in conjunction with TTI, Inc., as well as major global awards from Amphenol companies in 2013 and 2014.

Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell the stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

Tags Mouser Electronics

Appointments Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Appoints Phil Gardham to Head Medical Stop Loss Division

Post author By David Mazor
Post date June 2, 2020

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) has appointed Phil Gardham as SVP, Accident & Health – U.S. and Head of Medical Stop Loss. Phil takes the reins of BHSI’s Medical Stop Loss division from John Snyder, who is retiring after a distinguished industry career spanning more than four decades.

“Phil is a top-caliber industry leader and we are pleased to have him onboard to drive the continued growth of our Medical Stop Loss operation and the expansion of our A&H footprint in the U.S.,” said Sanjay Godhwani, Executive Vice President, BHSI. “We wish John all the best in his retirement and are grateful for his contributions founding our Medical Stop Loss operation and building a stellar team and infrastructure.”

Phil comes to BHSI with more than 30 years of industry experience. He spent 13 years at Companion Life Insurance Company in various roles, including President. Prior to that he was with Munich Re in Princeton, NJ. He began his career at Mercantile & General Reinsurance Company in Toronto, Canada.

BHSI provides Medical Stop Loss coverage across the U.S. Coverage is backed by exceptional underwriting experience, financial strength and BHSI’s commitment to providing excellent claims service that expedites payments to optimize customer cash flows.

Tags Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance

Lubrizol

Lubrizol Joins Drive to Develop Zero-Emissions Deep-Sea Ships

Post author By David Mazor
Post date June 1, 2020

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway’s Lubrizol Corporation has become the first lubricant additive technology supplier to join the Getting to Zero Coalition. An international group currently endorsed by 14 governments and composed of more than 100 organizations, it aims to drive the development of commercially viable, zero-emissions deep-sea ships by 2030.

The partnership between the Global Maritime Forum, the World Economic Forum and Friends of Ocean Action boasts leading ship owners, ports, technology providers and fuel companies as well as academic and research institutions.

“Joining the Getting to Zero Coalition is an opportunity for Lubrizol to contribute to one of the most important challenges of our time,” says Simon Tarrant, business manager – large engines, with Lubrizol. “It is also a chance to align with forward-thinking industry stakeholders to gain some insight into the engine and fuel solution challenges of the future.”

Lubrizol brings a wealth of experience in lubricant and fuel research. It recently analyzed IMO 2020-compliant very low sulphur fuel oil blends to develop a robust cylinder oil additive package to handle the widely varying properties of these fuels.

The coalition has chosen 2030 as its target date because most ships after that date will still be sailing in 2050, by which time global regulator the International Maritime Organization hopes to at least decrease greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from shipping by half. To fulfil that vision, a big proportion of the fleet will need to operate on low- or zero-carbon fuels.

New fuels and enhanced engine design will bring new operating condition challenges. For example, while today’s lubricants must counter the corrosion caused by sulphuric acid in cylinders—the result of sulphur in fuel—new fuels will form different acids. New lubricant formulations will therefore be needed to tackle any challenges that arise.

Ian Bown, technical manager – marine diesel engine oils, with Lubrizol, adds: “We are talking with engine manufacturers to understand the challenges that new fuels might bring. This will help us to evaluate the type of additive chemistry required in the future. But to gain more understanding we need in-service testing, which depends on the availability of ships operating on the relevant fuels.”

Lubrizol’s wider approach to sustainability aims to reduce both the environmental impact of making its products and the impact of the products themselves. It takes a lifecycle analysis approach to sustainability decisions in order to identify genuine opportunities to reduce its impact and prevent shifting the environmental burden from one product, process or phase to another.

“We are excited about the important work the coalition is doing and look forward to working together to help the shipping industry achieve its emissions goals by 2030,” says Tarrant.

Tags Lubrizol

Acquisitions Forest River

Forest River Acquires REV’s Shuttle Bus Brands

Post author By David Mazor
Post date May 29, 2020

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway’s Forest River Inc. has acquired REV Group’s shuttle bus brands: Champion Bus, Federal Coach, World Trans, Krystal Coach, ElDorado and Goshen Coach, adding to the company’s current shuttle bus divisions.

The brands are currently produced at plants in Salina and Imlay City, Michigan.

The bus product line provides transportation for colleges, churches, assisted living facilities, retirement communities, transportation companies and government agencies.

In a press release, David Wright, president of the bus division at Forest River said “We are excited to welcome Champion Bus and ElDorado to Forest River. Both organizations have built a history of integrity, quality and innovation and enjoy an excellent reputation in our industry today. As we navigate these challenging times, the addition of these historic and iconic brands to the Forest River family enhance our ability to provide products and a customer experience that is second to none. We look forward to working with our dealer partners as we better position Forest River’s shuttle bus divisions for the future.”

Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway and BYD, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell a stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

Tags Forest River

Minority Stock Positions Stock Portfolio

BYD Buses Rolling in Uruguay

Post author By David Mazor
Post date May 28, 2020

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

BYD has delivered 20 pure electric buses to CUTCSA, Uruguay’s largest bus operator.

The buses will be put into operation on two bus routes in the central area of the capital to replace existing diesel buses and actively promote the electrification process of the country’s buses.

BYD and CUTCSA collaboration goes back to 2016, under then President of Uruguay, Mr. Tabare Vazquez, the two parties signed a lease agreement for the country’s first pure electric bus. The operation of the bus exceeds 150,000 kilometers, and has carried more than 500,000 passengers. Its solid operating performance is the main reason for order of 20 buses.

In addition to the bus, about 60 BYD pure electric taxis e5 and e6 are also put in operation locally.

BYD’s new energy product footprint in South America includes Uruguay, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Costa Rica and Argentina.

BYD and Berkshire Hathaway

In 2008, Berkshire Hathaway bet on BYD’s potential, purchasing 225 million shares. It’s an investment that has paid off handsomely. Berkshire’s original investment of $230 million has grown in value almost ten-fold.

For More on BYD, read the Special Report: BYD, Berkshire’s Tesla.

Tags BYD Co, Stock Portfolio

Dairy Queen

Dairy Queen Adds Plant-Based, Dairy Free Dilly Bar

Post author By David Mazor
Post date May 24, 2020

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway’s Dairy Queen has added a dairy-free version to its iconic Dilly Bar. Warren Buffett has long been a fan of the classic version, but now vegetarians can enjoy a Non-dairy Dilly Bar that is gluten free, dairy free and plant-based.

The bar uses a coconut cream based protein that is encased in a crunchy vegan chocolate coating.

“The Non-Dairy Dilly Bar is being offered in response to fan requests, as well as to align with consumer and industry trends,” Dairy Queen’s Corporate Communications Director Amie Hoffner explained to QSRweb. “Many families have members who follow a variety of diets, including dairy-free, gluten-free and vegan, and we at DQ want everyone to have access to a treat that suits their needs.”

Summer just got better!

Tags Dairy Queen

Johns Manville

Johns Manville Producing Nonwoven Fabric for Medical Gowns

Post author By David Mazor
Post date May 21, 2020

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway’s Johns Manville plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, started production this month to make nonwoven fabric that will be used for manufacturing of urgently needed disposable medical gowns used in the fight against the spread of COVID-19.

“There is a desperate need in North America and in Europe for medical gowns,” said John Vasuta, President of Johns Manville’s Engineered Products business. “Our teams are working quickly to create solutions and manufacture a new coated polyester spunbond nonwoven fabric. We are going through unprecedented times – so every step to support health care workers and others on the front lines helps right now.”

This is the second move by Johns Manville to quickly develop and launch a product that can improve the safety of people in potential direct contact with the COVID-19 virus. In April, production started in Richland, Mississippi, of nonwoven media for the manufacturing of face masks.

“Given the urgent need for action,” Vasuta said, “we quickly decided to build on our own capabilities and develop a coated product to supply the domestic medical gown manufacturing industry.”

The new polyester spunbond nonwoven is designed for the production of Level 3 medical gowns. “The fabric offers superior liquid barrier performance compared to materials used for Level 1 and Level 2 medical gowns, while also providing comfort and stitch-strength,” said Souvik Nandi, Director Nonwovens Technology at Johns Manville Engineered Products.

The JM plant in Spartanburg employs 100 people and produces a variety of polyester nonwoven products for the use in mainly filtration, roofing and specialty applications using JM’s proprietary spunbond technology. Johns Manville operates a multitude of polyester spunbond lines across the globe with a distinct customer and market focus.

The new fabric is formally known as Evalith® 017/120H3 and is a coated continuous filament, calendared polyester nonwoven. It meets the requirements for a Level 3 medical gown as established by ANSI/AAMI PB70:2012 Liquid barrier performance and classification of protective apparel and drapes intended for use in health care facilities. Per this standard, the material was tested to AATCC 42-2017 Water Resistance: Impact Penetration Test and AATCC 127-2017 Water Resistance: Hydrostatic Pressure Test. Additionally, Evalith 017/120H3 has been tested to and meets the flammability standard per 16 CFR Part 1610 Class 1, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration policy and guidance.

Tags Johns Manville

HomeServices of America Real Estate

Veteran Realtor Cathy Jackson Returns to Intero

Post author By David Mazor
Post date May 20, 2020

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway’s real estate brand Intero has announced the return of Cathy Jackson as Vice President of Talent Development. In addition to her duties to help progress the education, knowledge and professionalism of Intero’s agent community, Jackson will also assist with the management of Intero’s Los Gatos office.

Intero is a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate and wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America Inc., serving Northern California with 18 offices throughout the greater Silicon Valley. The Intero Franchise network is comprised of 55 affiliates located in Alabama, California, Nevada, Tennessee and Texas. The company is headquartered in California’s Silicon Valley.

A respected real estate veteran, Jackson’s career has seen her as a top producer, mentor and cherished teammate wherever she has practiced real estate. Most recently, Cathy was with Compass and prior to that, she was with Sereno Group.

“I am thrilled to be coming back to Intero to take on this exciting new role,” said Cathy Jackson, Vice President of Talent Development. “It will be fulfilling to leverage my real estate knowledge and training experience to help some of the best agents in the business take their careers to another level.”

In addition to Jackson’s new role, she will also assist in the day-to-day operations and management of Intero’s Los Gatos office. She will be a valuable asset to the office with her vast knowledge of the industry, as well as her infectious spirit and desire to build a great culture. If that was not enough on her plate, Jackson will also be continuing her real estate sales business with her son Jamie.

“Cathy is a career real estate professional, with a deep understanding of the business,” said Brian Crane, Chief Executive Officer of Intero. “We are excited to have Cathy and her team join us. Her abundant energy and infectious enthusiasm are what sets her apart as a REALTOR® and leader. As one of the first agents hired at Intero in 2002, we’re excited to see Cathy return home.”

“I am overjoyed to be welcoming Cathy back to the Intero family,” said John Thompson, President of Intero. “I have known Cathy for years and have admired what she has done for the real estate industry as a whole. Having her back on the team continues to strengthen the Intero brand, as Cathy is someone who lives the core values of Intero, and manages every person and situation with professional expertise and personal concern.”

“I’m very excited to have Cathy back at Intero,” said Gino Blefari, CEO of HomeServices of America. “Her return marks an incredible, next chapter of the Intero story. I’m looking forward to working closely with her and the Intero team to achieve ongoing growth, perpetual innovation and long-term prosperity.”

Tags HomeServices of America, Intero

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Real Estate

Veteran Vermont Brokerage Joins Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Franchise Network

Post author By David Mazor
Post date May 19, 2020

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices has announced the addition of Jack Associates Real Estate to the network. The brokerage, headquartered in South Burlington, has served the area for 45 years and will operate as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Vermont Realty Group going forward.

Jack Russell said: “We were looking for leadership, innovation, brand recognition and great tools and systems. We found all that in Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices.” The move was also inspired by Chairman Gino Blefari’s motto: “We help people achieve their goals faster than they would in our absence.” Said Lynn Russell, “We want that to be true for all our agents, staff, clients and customers.”

Jack Associates Real Estate adds 10 offices and 43 agents to the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network. The brokerage has been a leading real estate company in Vermont since 1972. Under the ownership of Jack and Lynn Russell, the brokerage has built a team of experienced professional real estate agents who always put their clients first.

“The network’s values of trust, integrity, longevity and stability have always been our values as well,” said Jack. Having served as Realtor Board Presidents and honored as Realtors of the Year, Jack Associates agents have always worked towards creating clients for life and becoming what Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices calls “Forever Agents.”

“We are proud to welcome Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Vermont Realty Group to the network,” said Chris Stuart, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. “Jack and Lynn Russell have built their brokerage into a vital part of the Vermont market and we’re thrilled they have chosen to bring their Forever Agents to our network.”

Lynn added, “We did not make this decision lightly. Change is hard and we would not make this change unless we were very sure it will benefit our team and our clients and customers. We are doing this because we feel it is the best opportunity for us all to grow and succeed together.”

The company also gains access to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ ‘FOREVER Cloud’ technology suite powered by Salesforce including lead generation, marketing support, social media content, video production/distribution support and more. In addition, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices provides global listing syndication, professional training and the exclusive Luxury Collection marketing program for premier listings.

Tags Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Real Estate

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Insurance

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Now Providing Defense Base Act Coverage

Post author By David Mazor
Post date May 18, 2020

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance is now providing Defense Base Act (DBA) insurance on a global basis through its DBA-dedicated underwriting and claims team in Dubai.

“We are pleased to bring this mandatory coverage to contractors and companies operating throughout the Middle East and around the globe,” said Neeraj Yadvendu, Head of Third-Party Lines, BHSI Middle East. “Our coverage is supported by BHSI’s experienced Dubai-based DBA specialists who have well-established relationships with key vendors in volatile regions, ensuring exceptional services to customers when and where coverage is most needed.”

DBA insurance provides disability, medical and death benefits to covered employees, whether the injury or death occurs on or off the job in the course of employment. Further to its standard offering, BHSI can provide additional coverage in other key areas, such as Emergency Medical Evacuation and Supplementary Repatriation Expenses, tailoring its approach to meet customer needs.

U.S. federal law mandates DBA insurance for U.S.-government contractors, private employers and contractors working outside the U.S. on American military bases or under a contract with the U.S. government for public works or for national defense. These works include providing defense equipment, life support, materials or services to U.S. allies; or providing welfare services to benefit U.S. Armed Services.

Tags Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance, Insurance