RS South Africa showcased its advanced technologies and engineering solutions at the Mining and Technical Exhibitions (MTE) held in Hotazel, Kathu, and Steelpoort in South Africa. The company demonstrated products and services focused on improving productivity, safety, and operational efficiency in mining environments through predictive maintenance, automation, energy efficiency, and digital solutions. Key products included test and measurement equipment, automation systems, electrical components, pneumatics and hydraulics, industrial hand tools, personal protective equipment, and machine safety technologies from global brands such as Fluke, Megger, DeWalt, Wera, 3M, Ansell, Siemens, Schneider Electric, and Eaton. RS South Africa emphasized its role as a trusted partner in supporting mining innovation by offering integrated, data-driven solutions tailored to local conditions. The events took place in regions central to South Africa’s mining industry, including the Northern Cape and Limpopo provinces.

The clear aligners market is experiencing sustained double-digit growth through 2035, driven by rising malocclusion prevalence, consumer demand for aesthetic and discreet orthodontic solutions, and advancements in digital dentistry. Key technologies such as intraoral scanning, AI-driven treatment planning, and 3D printing enhance precision, clinical outcomes, and patient comfort. Adults remain the largest revenue segment, while teens show the fastest growth due to increased acceptance of invisible treatments. North America currently holds the largest market share, supported by a mature ecosystem, advanced infrastructure, and strong brand presence, while the Asia-Pacific region is growing at the fastest rate. Major players include Align Technology Inc, Dentsply Sirona, 3M EPSE, Henry Schein Inc, Patterson Companies Inc, TP Orthodontics Inc, Danaher Corporation Inc, Dentsply International Inc, and Straumann Group. Recent developments include Align Technology launching campaigns for kids and teens in June 2025 and OrthoFX launching NiTime aligners in India in September 2024. Challenges such as limited insurance coverage, patient adherence, workforce shortages, and rising competition are noted, with strategic opportunities emerging in AI-enhanced planning, tele-orthodontics, practice enablement, and sustainable materials.

The global industrial and institutional cleaning chemical market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5% from 2024 to 2034, expanding from USD 60.9 billion to USD 125.5 billion. This growth is driven by increasing demand across healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing, and public administration, fueled by a heightened focus on hygiene and public health, especially post-COVID-19. Key regions include the United States, China, and Germany, with the U.S. expected to lead North America at a 5.8% CAGR, China at 8.9%, and Germany seeing its institutional sales double to USD 13,201.1 million by 2034. The surfactant segment holds a 34.3% revenue share, and general purpose cleaners dominate with a 31.1% value share. Recent developments include TruArc Partners acquiring Meyer Laboratory in March 2024 and Sasol Chemicals launching sustainable brands Carinex and Livinex in October 2023. Major players include Procter & Gamble, BASF SE, Clariant, The Clorox Company, Henkel AG & Co. KGaA, 3M, Kimberly-Clark Corporation, Reckitt Benckiser Group plc, Croda International PLC, Albemarle Corporation, Eastman Chemical Corporation, and Huntsman International LLC.

Albemarle, the world's largest producer of lithium for rechargeable batteries, announced that Chief Operating Officer Netha Johnson will leave the company. The company did not provide a timeline for his exit or the reason for his departure. Johnson joined Albemarle in 2018 and previously worked at 3M. He sits on the board of Xcel Energy. Mark Mummert, who has been with the company since 2019 and previously oversaw supply chain logistics, will replace Johnson as Chief Operating Officer. Albemarle reported a surprise second-quarter profit driven by sustained demand for lithium.

Albemarle, the world's largest producer of lithium for rechargeable batteries, announced that Chief Operating Officer Netha Johnson will leave the company. The company did not provide a timeline for his exit or the reason for his departure. Johnson, who joined Albemarle in 2018, currently sits on the board of electric utility Xcel Energy and previously worked at 3M. He will be succeeded as operating chief by Mark Mummert, who has been with the company since 2019 and most recently oversaw supply chain logistics. Albemarle reported strong performance earlier this month due to sustained demand for lithium in battery applications.