Blumenthal Richter & Sumet expands regional reach with Legal ASEAN acquisition and relocates to new office

Leading international law firm Blumenthal Richter & Sumet (BRS) has acquired Legal ASEAN, strengthening its capabilities in cross-border investments, real estate, foreign direct investment and regional legal consultancy across Southeast Asia.

Legal ASEAN founder Mark D'Alelio joins BRS as Partner, bringing over two decades of experience with multinational law firms in Thailand, Vietnam, and Myanmar. Mark specializes in strategic counsel for international and Thai clients on market entry, real estate development, FDI, and cross-border structuring.

His practice covers dispute resolution, having managed complex real estate and labor disputes and represented clients before Thailand's Department of Special Investigations. Mark's expertise spans corporate law, Board of Investment promotion, market entry advisory in IT/ technology sectors, and management agreement structuring between Thai developers and international hotel brands.

Mark's team—comprising Senior Associates Sasathorn Dharakasem and Teerapun Jiamton, Associates Sireethorn Ruksachart, Pranchalee Maneerat, and Pitchayapa Rungrueng, along with dedicated support staff—has also joined BRS.

BRS RELOCATES TO ONE BANGKOK

BRS has relocated to its new office at One Bangkok Tower, 39th Floor, Wireless Road, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, marking a significant milestone in the firm's growth and commitment to delivering collaborative legal services, thought leadership, and sustainable business practices.

Kristian Petersen appointed as General Manager of Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok

Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok announces the appointment of Kristian Petersen as General Manager, effective 4 August 2025.

A veteran hospitality leader with over 20 years of Marriott International experience, Kristian brings expertise in hotel operations, pre-opening strategy, and brand transformation across Asia Pacific and Europe.

Kristian recently served as General Manager of Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, leading Marriott's largest resort conversion project in APEC and successfully repositioning the 1,690-key property as a flagship destination. Previously, he helmed the award-winning JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, where his team was named Best JW Marriott Hotel Worldwide in 2022.

His career included leadership roles in Greater China, including Area Director of Operations for

East China, overseeing 23 Marriott properties across multiple premium brands.

Kristian is recognised for visionary leadership, operational excellence, and focus on guest satisfaction. His appointment marks a new chapter for Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok—a landmark riverfront property known for timeless hospitality and prime location.

"I am honored to join the team at Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Bangkok," said Mr. Petersen. "This hotel is not only iconic in Bangkok's hospitality landscape, but also holds immense potential for the future. I look forward to working closely with our talented team and esteemed partners to deliver exceptional guest experiences and drive continued success."

Continental’s Automotive group sector operates as the independent listed company AUMOVIO

Continental's Automotive group sector now operates as the independent listed company AUMOVIO, which unveiled its ambitious growth strategy during its Capital Market Day. The electronics and technology company targets long-term sales exceeding €24 billion, up from €19.6 billion in 2024.

"AUMOVIO will start from a strong position in growth segments for future mobility, backed by an excellent customer base and sinificantly improved profitability," said AUMOVIO CEO Philipp von Hirschheydt.

The company expects its solutions' value per vehicle to grow 4-5% annually through 2029, outpacing global vehicle production growth. AUMOVIO recorded €19.3 billion in order intake for 2024, supported by relationships with leading manufacturers worldwide.

AUMOVIO has implemented a comprehensive strategy program to support its value and

growth trajectory as an independent company. Its three-pillar strategy focuses on: leading markets with pioneering products, transforming into a high-performance organisation, and delivering financial targets. The company aims for 6.0-8.0% adjusted EBIT margins long-term, compared to 2.5% in 2024.

Starting with €1.5 billion cash, no financial debt, and a €2.5 billion credit facility, AUMOVIO is positioned to drive innovation in software-defined vehicles and autonomous mobility solutions across its four business areas: Autonomous Mobility (AM), Architecture and Network Solutions (ANS), Safety and Motion (SAM) and User Experience (UX).

QSNCC earns global recognition for “Waste Not, Delight More” initiative

Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) has gained international acclaim for its sustainability leadership among Thai convention venues. Its "Waste Not, Delight More" initiative won the AIPC Innovation Award 2025 – Winner Delegate's Choice and is a UFI Operations & Services Award 2025 finalist.

Launched in 2023, this innovative food-waste management program follows circular economy principles targeting Zero Food Waste through pre-ordering technology, locallysourced menu design, and partnerships transforming waste into valuable resources. The program enhances attendee experiences with delicious, eco-friendly meals while fostering environmental pride.

The AIPC Innovation Award celebrates creative management strategies in international convention centers, with the Delegate's Choice voted by worldwide convention centers. The UFI award recognizes exceptional food and beverage management that is "Sustainable, Engaging, and Adaptive."

Surapol Utintu, CEO of QSNCC, noted “These global sustainability awards not only elevate QSNCC’s reputation worldwide but also affirm our dedication and creativity in achieving zero food waste—while delivering sustainable, delightful F&B experiences. These recognitions inspire us to continue advancing toward our ultimate goal of Net Zero.”