Terms of the deal were not disclosed. We are pleased to be joining a company with such a vision for the future, and we believe it represents an exciting opportunity for the American Gem family of brands. The company is led by Jim Hilger, former president of American Gem. Microchip maker delays Puyallup plant opening Chandler, Ariz.-based Microchip Technology Inc ., a maker of microchips for cars and appliances, said the global economic slowdown will cause it to fire 400 employees, trim production by 24 percent and delay plans to open a new facility in Puyallup. The job cuts represent 12 percent of its worldwide work force of 3,350, Chief Financial Officer Gordon Parnell said.
Prices are under pressure.
Amazon hopes the new feature will drive CD sales from its Web site, and independent record labels see the honor system tip jar as a way to compensate independent and unsigned artists. Amazon receives 30 percent of the donation. Greg Hart of Amazon's music division said independent artists would benefit from uploading their music to the company's Web site by having their songs presented to some of Amazon's 30 million customers worldwide. Record labels also are looking forward to the added exposure. Online travel service Expedia.