UBCNews - Business

If you've been researching steel buildings, you've likely noticed the steep increase in prices. Construction input costs have risen a staggering 40.5% since February 2020, with a 1.4% increase in January 2025 alone, BLS data shows. These price hikes have put many building projects on hold as businesses struggle to manage upfront costs.

Fortunately, financing solutions—like Oregon Carports'—can help you distribute these expenses over time, making your steel building project financially manageable.

You now have several ways to finance your steel building without paying the full amount upfront:

Traditional Financing: Partner with financial institutions offering competitive rates specifically for steel buildings.

Before you apply for financing, take time to design your ideal steel structure. Oregon Carports offers a 3D Configurator tool that lets you visualize your building and get accurate pricing. This step is important because:

It helps you understand exactly what you're financing.

Your financed building comes with the same quality guarantees as any Oregon Carports structure:

20-year warranty on materials.

Don't let rising material costs delay your steel building project any longer. Oregon Carports is ready to help you handle the financing process and find the solution that works best for you and your business needs.

Located in Eugene, Oregon Carports prefabricates and installs metal buildings for residential and commercial customers across Oregon, Washington, California, Nevada, and Idaho. Clients can choose from carports, garages, barns, and other metal buildings while customizing each structure with features such as windows, doors, and various color choices.

Find out more about Oregon Carports' financing options by visiting the link in the description.

The Food & Beverage (F&B) industry is under increasing strain, battling rising operational costs, labor shortages, and supply chain disruptions. These challenges are pushing businesses to rethink traditional strategies and seek out innovative technologies to remain competitive. One of the most transformative developments in recent years is embedded finance - integrated solutions that seamlessly embed financial services into business operations. By leveraging embedded finance, F&B businesses can streamline cash flow, enhance customer loyalty, and unlock new revenue opportunities.

At the forefront of this transformation is Toqio, the award-winning provider of embedded finance solutions. Recently named ‘Best Embedded Finance System 2024’ at the Banking Tech Awards, Toqio is redefining how F&B businesses manage their financial ecosystems. With its intuitive, scalable, and fully customisable platform, Toqio delivers business solutions designed to drive efficiency, optimise financial operations, and ultimately fuel value creation for businesses in the sector.

For F&B businesses, financial services are no longer an optional add-on but a core component of their operations. With costs rising and margins shrinking, integrating financial services directly into business workflows offers a competitive advantage. From payment processing to working capital financing and loyalty programs, business services that were once fragmented can now be unified into a single ecosystem.

Toqio’s embedded finance platform is designed to help businesses simplify their financial management, allowing them to focus on what they do best - delivering exceptional products and experiences. By leveraging innovative technologies, Toqio enables businesses to integrate financial services without the complexity of managing them in-house.

The impact of embedded finance is already evident across the industry. Companies like Toast and Uber Eats have revolutionised their business models by embedding financial services directly into their platforms.

Toast, a restaurant management software company, generated a staggering $3.81 billion in financial technology revenue in 2024, making up 77% of its total revenue. By integrating payment processing and lending into its platform, Toast has created a thriving, self-sustaining ecosystem that enhances both merchant and customer experiences.

Uber Eats has similarly capitalised on embedded finance, offering restaurants access to financing, marketing credits, and seamless payment processing. These services not only strengthen customer loyalty but also create new revenue streams for businesses using the platform.

These success stories highlight the immense potential of embedded finance. With Toqio’s business solutions, F&B businesses of all sizes can harness similar opportunities to drive growth and efficiency.

Unlike generic financial platforms, Toqio’s embedded finance solution is tailored to meet the unique demands of the F&B industry. With features designed for scalability and flexibility, the platform empowers businesses to integrate financial services that align with their specific needs.

One of Toqio’s standout offerings is multi-bank access, which allows businesses to tap into a range of financial services from various providers. This capability ensures that businesses are not tied to a single financial institution, giving them the flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions and capitalise on new opportunities.

By integrating multiple financial partners, businesses can secure better financing terms, optimise cash flow, and reduce dependency on traditional banking structures. This level of value creation is crucial for F&B businesses operating in an unpredictable economic marketplace.

Toqio’s platform also features low-code and no-code tools, enabling businesses to develop customised financial solutions without requiring extensive technical expertise. This functionality is particularly valuable for F&B businesses looking to offer unique payment and financing options.

For example, businesses can link volume-based discounts to financing options, encouraging bulk purchases while enhancing customer retention. This level of customisation strengthens supplier relationships and fosters long-term business growth.

Beyond financial services, Toqio’s platform offers full integration with enterprise resource planning (ERP) and customer relationship management (CRM) systems. This connectivity provides businesses with real-time insights into their financial performance, inventory levels, and customer data.

For an industry where margins are razor-thin, having a unified view of operations is essential. By integrating financial data with other key business metrics, F&B businesses can make more informed decisions, reduce inefficiencies, and drive profitability.

Toqio’s embedded finance solutions are already delivering measurable benefits for businesses. These include an 8% Increase in new customer acquisition. By offering more personalised financial services, businesses using Toqio’s platform are seeing an increase in new customers.

Businesses that integrate embedded finance into their operations experience a higher customer retention rate and increased spending. It also allows them to launch new products and services 3x faster: with streamlined financial processes, businesses can quickly introduce new offerings to market.

Finally, by optimising sales channels and unlocking new revenue streams, businesses using Toqio’s platform are seeing exponential growth (30x increase in top-line revenue).

These figures underscore the transformative impact of integrated solutions in the F&B industry. With Toqio’s embedded finance platform, businesses can scale rapidly, improve efficiency, and enhance overall financial health.

While Toqio’s embedded finance solutions are making waves in the F&B sector, their applications extend far beyond. From logistics to retail and beyond, businesses across industries can leverage business services powered by Toqio to streamline financial operations and drive value creation.

By offering a scalable, modular, and customisable solution, Toqio enables businesses of all kinds to embed financial services that align with their unique requirements. Whether it’s automating invoicing, integrating payments, or unlocking working capital, Toqio’s platform is designed to empower businesses in any sector.

The shift towards embedded finance underlines the fundamental change it’s having in how businesses operate. As the F&B industry continues to evolve, companies that embrace innovative technologies and integrated solutions will be best positioned for long-term success.

Toqio’s cutting-edge platform offers the business solutions F&B companies need to stay ahead of the competition, optimise financial operations, and unlock sustainable growth. By embedding financial services directly into their ecosystems, businesses can reduce operational complexity, enhance customer experiences, and create new revenue streams - all while maintaining full control over their financial strategy.

For F&B businesses looking to future-proof their operations and capitalise on the power of embedded finance, Toqio provides the ultimate business services solution.

Click here to learn more about how Toqio’s embedded finance platform helps businesses unlock new growth opportunities.

Looking for the perfect getaway for Spring 2025? Look no further than Casago Myrtle Beach, where you can book a luxury penthouse condo that offers the ultimate in comfort, style, and breathtaking views. Whether you're planning a family vacation or a relaxing retreat, this stunning 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath penthouse is your ideal escape in Myrtle Beach.

Myrtle Beach has long been a top destination for spring travelers. The area experiences a significant boost in visitors during the spring season, with hotel occupancy rates rising by 18% each year, according to Visit Myrtle Beach. With its warm weather, scenic coastline, and abundance of activities, Myrtle Beach is the perfect spot to soak up the sun, explore, and create unforgettable memories.

The penthouse at Ocean Dunes Tower 1 is the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. With approximately 1,760 square feet of living space, three private balconies, and towering 10-foot ceilings, this condo provides ample room for relaxation and entertaining. From the moment you step into the foyer, you’ll notice the attention to detail—from the herringbone-patterned tile flooring to the crown molding and tasteful décor.

One of the best features of this penthouse is its panoramic views. Located on the fifteenth floor, guests can take in stunning views of both the sparkling ocean and the city skyline. Whether you're enjoying a morning coffee on your private balcony or watching the sunset in the evening, the views will take your breath away.

The penthouse includes three beautifully designed bedrooms, each with its own en suite bathroom, providing privacy and comfort for up to eight guests. The master bedroom is the ultimate retreat, featuring a king-sized bed, a private balcony with ocean views, and a luxurious en suite bathroom with a walk-in shower and a skylight that fills the space with natural light.

The other two bedrooms are equally inviting, with a queen-sized bed in one room and two queen-sized beds in the other. Both rooms have their own private bathrooms and access to balconies with city views.

The chef’s kitchen has been updated to a modern open concept, featuring gorgeous granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and ample space to prepare meals. Whether you're cooking a gourmet meal or enjoying a casual snack, the kitchen is fully stocked with everything you'll need.

Not only does this penthouse offer luxury, but it’s also ideally located to explore everything Myrtle Beach has to offer. The condo is steps away from the beach and close to popular attractions like the Myrtle Beach Skywheel, Alligator Adventure, Duplin Winery, and Tanger Outlets. Whether you’re looking for fun family activities, great shopping, or delicious dining, you’ll find it all nearby.

The Ocean Dunes Tower 1 offers added security, privacy, and peace of mind, with access to a passcode-entry system and a fantastic outdoor pool located on the ground floor. The condo is designed to accommodate guests with mobility challenges, featuring step-free entryways and wider doorways for easy access.

To make your Spring 2025 vacation even more memorable, Casago Myrtle Beach is offering a special 10% discount for guests who book two or more nights between now and March 31, 2025. Just use the code BOOKNOW10 when making your reservation.

Book Your Stay Today! If you’re ready to experience the ultimate Myrtle Beach vacation, don’t wait to book this incredible penthouse. With luxury amenities, stunning views, and a prime location, it’s the perfect place to create lasting memories.

For more information or to make a reservation, visit Casago Myrtle Beach at the link in the description or call (843) 999-2837.

Tired of your roof all but blowing away, your shingles gone with the Colorado wind? Put away the superglue - your roof needs a material overhaul. Apex Restoration & Roofing knows that metal roofs are in vogue in all settings, not just commercial. It’s high time you opted for a roofing material suited to withstand high winds…

Metal is quickly gaining steam among Denver-area residents, and now the trend is reaching Longmont. These local contractors are ready to install metal roofing systems with materials such as Copper, Aluminum, and Steel.

All fine ways to defend against storm damage - a common problem in Longmont! Given the material’s superior wind resistance, it’s no wonder we’re seeing an uptick in metal roofing orders. Colorado homeowners are always looking to shelter their property from the region’s extreme weather, and you can, too.

When it comes to storm protection, metal beats the asphalt shingles you’d normally see atop residential buildings. The latter material is prone to wear and tear, whereas metal roofs offer longevity in spades - making them a more cost-effective choice over the long run!

“Shingles can crack or curl over time, but metal roofs are resistant to damage from weather conditions like hail, high winds, and heavy snow,” says an Apex Restoration & Roofing representative. “They’re also durable - and can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years with proper maintenance.”

It’s not just high winds, either - metal roofing systems are built to withstand the weather conditions that come part and parcel with Colorado’s storm season - namely, hail and snow! Most modern installations will resist cracking and corrosion, and that’s exactly why you need to find a reputable contractor who’ll use quality materials for your upcoming project!

Enter: Apex Restoration & Roofing. This team can help you decide on the most suitable material for your property. With on-site assessments, they’ll plan out your upcoming installation and determine whether further storm protection reinforcements might be needed.

Apex Restoration & Roofing carries out metal roof installations from Longmont to Brighton, Firestone, and other Denver-area communities. Is your home next? Get your free quote over the phone!

“We are grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Apex,” said one recent customer. “They were polite, courteous, extremely experienced, and knowledgeable with roofing replacements - with a keen eye for attention to detail. They put us at ease answering all our questions in a precise manner.”

More info is available at the link in the description.

When was the last time you had your building’s roof inspected? As a business owner, you can’t afford to let your roof’s condition slide into disarray. Better safe than sorry, and Apex Restoration & Roofing knows that. Best-case scenario: your roof is still looking great, and you’ll know everything’s fine. Worst-case scenario: you’ve discovered what’s wrong - just in time.

Apex Restoration & Roofing is here to help you preserve your commercial roofing system come rain or shine… or hail. Colorado’s annual hail season is set to begin in mid-April, combining with other severe weather events to put your roof at risk. Is it ready for the storm?

By inspecting your roof thoroughly, Apex Restoration & Roofing can ensure that the system is well-prepared to withstand the coming conditions. These experienced professionals will assess your roof’s strength and resilience before shoring up any vulnerabilities, if necessary.

More than that, though, routine inspections are always crucial in a commercial setting - whether in preparation for storms or not! After all, regular assessments enable professional roofers to identify minor issues before they worsen, including Weathered shingles, Worn flashing, and Cracked tiles.

Finding such problems early on paves the way to resolving the issue both quickly and cost-effectively. This can be particularly important where commercial roofs are concerned, which are designed to shelter and protect your staff along with much-needed equipment. Let Apex Restoration & Roofing explain more…

“Regular inspections ensure compliance with local building codes, safeguarding properties against legal liabilities resulting from neglect or structural failures. Just as legal professionals prepare and prevent litigations, routine inspections prevent unforeseen damage and related expenses.”

Apex Restoration & Roofing has seen it firsthand, time and time again. Recently, in fact, a routine assessment unearthed a hidden roofing problem that, in time, could have developed into a far worse, even costlier issue!

The case involved a business owner responsible for several commercial properties in their local area. Following a long, severe winter (as you know, a common occurrence in Colorado!), the individual arranged roofing inspections for each of their buildings - as it turns out, in the nick of time!

Here’s the full story: “Routine inspections revealed a significant structural weakness in one of the roofs caused by accumulated snow from an unexpectedly severe winter. Addressing this promptly minimized the risk of a catastrophic collapse - protecting both the property and employees, and avoiding potential legal issues.”

This could happen to you, too. Apex Restoration & Roofing helps warehouse managers, corporate groups, and SMB owners alike keep their commercial roofs in pristine condition going forward. Why not book your service?

From roof inspections to repairs and replacements, services are available to book via the link in the description!

A complex range of factors can cause your yard to flood during a storm, such as soil quality, gradients, retaining walls, tree roots, and how your downpipes work. That’s why the team at League City Drainage & Irrigation use an equally advanced system to assess your property and design a solution that works.

The Gulf Coast region of Texas has seen a significant number of major weather events in recent years, with Hurricane Beryl being one of the most noteworthy examples. In the last five years, the state has experienced a threefold increase in billion-dollar weather disasters, of which most have been severe storms, according to the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration.

With the latest update, League City Drainage & Irrigation has doubled down on its flood prevention techniques, aimed at protecting local homes and businesses. The firm’s landscaping includes leveling out low-lying areas, as well as creating a gentle gradient, which reduces localized flooding and directs water away from your home.

Landscaping forms part of a more comprehensive suite of services, which also includes in-ground drainage, retaining walls, gutter and downpipe improvements, and root barriers. The team first does an in-depth assessment of your property, allowing it to design a custom solution that addresses the specific causes of flooding.

“The League City Drainage & Irrigation company has been working in the League City area for years helping friends, family, and community members with water issues of all kinds,” a company representative explained. “We are specialists in finding the root of problems like seasonal flooding, yard drainage, water flowing in the wrong direction, low spots, and other water-flow issues.”

League City Drainage & Irrigation serves homes and businesses across Galveston County and the South Houston regions, including Dickinson, Friendswood, Bacliff, Pasadena, Deer Park, and La Porte. In addition to flood prevention solutions, the firm offers the installation of timed sprinkler systems and modern outdoor lighting.

“I contacted the League City Drainage Company to help with the landscaping of my garden,” one client recently stated. “They did a great job and even made a small pond that I now love. I highly recommend their services.”

Check out the description to learn more!

If you live in Dickinson, Santa Fe, Friendswood, or Seabrook, Galveston County Roofing offers affordable annual maintenance plans to find and repair minor issues with your roof. Mother Nature will exploit even the smallest of weak points, so it’s a smart move to have your roof checked before storm season rolls in.

In the past five years, Texas has experienced an average of 13.6 major weather disasters each year, significantly higher than the 40-year average of 4.2, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Last year saw a record-breaking 20 events, of which two were tropical cyclones, 16 were severe storms, one was a winter storm, and one was a drought.

As Galveston County Roofing explains, the increase in severe weather has put additional stress on local roofs, requiring more frequent attention to ensure their integrity. The firm’s latest maintenance plans have been introduced several months before the arrival of storm season to ensure you have ample time to arrange an appointment.

“Given Galveston’s exposure to severe coastal weather conditions, it’s recommended to have your roof inspected more frequently than in other areas,” a company representative explained. “Our skilled technicians can quickly identify and fix a wide range of roofing issues, from minor leaks to more significant damage. We use state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose problems accurately and implement lasting solutions.”

In addition to maintenance plans, Galveston County Roofing has expanded its 24/7 emergency response capability, which is also now available across the region. The firm’s goal is to offer fast, affordable, and reliable roofing assistance when you need it the most.

In businesses for over 20 years, Galveston County Roofing is one of the most well-established roofing contractors in the Kemah area. The company is fully licensed and insured and has an extensive portfolio of completed projects in the region, giving you the highest levels of assurance.

“Our home had some storm damage which caused a bad leak in the roof,” one client recently stated. “We asked Galveston County Roofing to come out and give us a quote, which was very fair. They did a great job, and we’ll definitely use them again.”

Check out the description to learn more!

If your roof has been damaged in a storm, the last thing you need is a dodgy contractor who does a poor job, or who just takes your money and runs for the hills. Do yourself a favor and take note of Galveston County Roofing, a trusted local team that prides itself on quality, speed, and affordability.

Texas has seen a record number of natural disasters in recent years, and the Texas Department of Insurance warns that this is often when out-of-town repair contractors appear. To prevent such issues, the department recommends that you seek companies who are locally based and have references from previous clients in the region.

Galveston County Roofing explains that affordability and timing are two of the reasons that you might be tempted by a scammer, so that’s something the team also aims to provide. The firm offers 24/7 emergency callouts, full proposals detailing the work to be carried out, and a portfolio of local projects that you are welcome to check.

“Your home deserves the best protection, and that's exactly what our residential roofing services provide,” a company representative explained. “Our team takes pride in delivering high-quality workmanship and attention to detail, ensuring your new roof not only protects your home but also enhances its curb appeal and value.”

As storm damage can often be covered by your insurance, Galveston County Roofing can conduct inspections and reports, as well as offer professional support with filing documents. The company has extensive experience working with insurance companies, and can work directly with representatives on behalf of clients.

About Galveston County Roofing

“After the last big storms, our roof had some serious damage, and we needed to get it inspected for our insurance before we could get started on repairs,” one local client recently stated. “Galveston County Roofing was the only company we spoke to that was able to get us the timely service that we needed to start getting our home back to normal.”

Check out the description to learn more!

There’s something special about sipping your favorite drink under the open sky. Whether it’s morning coffee by the campfire or hot cocoa after a long hike, the right mug becomes part of the memory. That’s exactly what Forget Me Not Novelties had in mind with their camping mugs designed to go wherever your adventures take you.

Forget Me Not Novelties' camping mug collection features two distinct styles to match your lifestyle:

The ceramic camping mug holds 11 ounces and features a comfortable C-handle for easy gripping. It’s microwave- and dishwasher-safe, making it equally practical for backwoods camping and everyday use. Made without lead or BPA, it’s a safe and stylish way to enjoy your favorite beverages.

The 12-ounce enamel camping mug is another option that attaches easily to your backpack. Its classic white coating with silver rim creates a rustic, outdoorsy look that fits perfectly around the campfire and is also perfect for fueling up on the trail.

Both mugs can be personalized with your name and a special date— you can, for instance, commemorate your favorite hiking trip or give as a thoughtful gift to a fellow outdoor enthusiast.

Choose from ready-made designs like "I Love Van Life" and "Say Yes To New Adventures" or request something completely custom. Your personalized mug becomes more than just drinkware—it's a keepsake that captures memories of your experiences in nature.

Forget Me Not Novelties was founded in 2021 by Bertha Carver and her husband of 45 years after the pandemic reshaped their lives. “We’re too young to retire and too old to be employed,” Bertha shares. So, they poured their creativity into something meaningful—crafting quality products for life’s most memorable moments.

Their hands-on, small-business approach ensures personal attention to every order, which shows in both the craftsmanship and customer experience. As one happy buyer put it: “Great quality and fast delivery. Very pleased with my purchase. Thank you.”

As camping continues to grow in popularity (with over 25 million Americans trying it for the first time since 2021), having gear that reflects your personality makes the experience even more special.

Don't settle for ordinary camping products. Visit Forget Me Not Novelties on Etsy today and find the perfect camping mug to accompany you on your next outdoor adventure!

Place your order by visiting the link in the description.

Pickleball is taking the world by storm, and it's easy to see why. It’s fun, fast-paced, and accessible to people of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned player looking to refine your skills or a beginner eager to improve your game, Pickleball Prodigy has just launched the perfect resource for you: an informative online guide that covers all the basics of mastering pickleball.

Pickleball’s popularity continues to skyrocket, and it’s no surprise. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, pickleball participation grew by 21.3% between 2020 and 2021. The sport is attracting new players every day, and as it becomes more popular, players are looking for ways to level up their skills and gain a competitive edge.

That’s where the Pickleball Prodigy guide comes in. This easy-to-follow online guide is packed with tips, strategies, and insights that will help you take your pickleball game to the next level. Whether you’re aiming to perfect your singles play or simply want to get better at strategy, this guide has got you covered.

The guide covers all the essential aspects of pickleball, starting with the basics:

Develop a Consistent Serve: The serve is a key part of gaining control of the game. With a reliable serve, you can start each point on your terms.

While pickleball might seem simple at first, the best players know that strategy is what sets them apart. It’s not just about smashing the ball or trying to hit it as hard as you can—it’s about thinking ahead, reading your opponent’s moves, and controlling the game. The Pickleball Prodigy guide dives deep into how to create a winning strategy that puts you in control.

Think of it like playing chess, but with a paddle and a wiffle ball. The more you understand the strategic elements of the game, the more you can outsmart your opponent and stay ahead of the competition.

Pickleball isn’t just about physical skills—it’s about mental focus too. The guide emphasizes how important it is to stay sharp and adaptable. Being able to manage pressure, make quick decisions, and recover from mistakes are all essential mental skills for success on the court.

Having a strong mental game can help you win even when your opponent might be physically stronger or more experienced. Staying calm, focused, and ready to adjust can give you that extra edge to come out on top.

One of the most important skills in pickleball is learning to read your opponent. What are their tendencies? Which shots do they prefer? How do they react under pressure? By observing these patterns, you can tailor your strategy to exploit their weaknesses and neutralize their strengths.

It’s like being a detective, gathering clues to use in your game. The more you understand your opponent, the more you can predict their next move and set yourself up for success.

Ready to Improve Your Game? Whether you’re looking to sharpen your strategy, improve your serve, or boost your mental game, the Pickleball Prodigy guide is your ultimate resource. It’s designed for players of all skill levels, so no matter where you’re starting from, you’ll find valuable tips and strategies that can help you grow and improve.

To check out the full guide and start mastering the basics of pickleball, visit Mastering Pickleball Basics at the link in the description. Your game is about to get a whole lot better!