Evaluating solar cell performance through in-orbit demonstration

TOKYO, Oct. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ricoh Company, Ltd. has announced that its perovskite solar cells have been installed on the Space Solar Cell Demonstration System (SDX) on the HTV-X1, the new uncrewed cargo transfer ‘spacecraft1’ developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), which was launched on October 26. After HTV-X1 delivers supplies to the International Space Station (ISS), JAXA will conduct an in-orbit demonstration.

During the in-orbit demonstration, Ricoh’s perovskite solar cells are exposed to space for approximately two months. During this period, the current-voltage (I-V) characteristics will be measured, and power generation performance and durability will be evaluated. Conventional satellite solar cells are heavy, which increases launch costs, and they face challenges such as degradation from cosmic rays (radiation travelling through space) and limited power generation under low-light conditions. Perovskite solar cells, by contrast, offer high power generation even at low illumination, strong resistance to cosmic radiation, and potential for lightweight and flexible designs. These advantages make perovskite solar cells promising candidates for future use in space.

As part of its commitment to realising a zero-carbon society, Ricoh has been working on technological development to achieve the practical applications of perovskite solar cells. Since 2017, Ricoh has been participating in joint research with the JAXA Space Exploration Innovation Hub Center to develop perovskite solar cells with high durability suitable for space environments.

Ricoh aims to further improve energy conversion efficiency and durability of perovskite solar cells while achieving high productivity and cost reductions by integrating its core technologies, including organic photoconductors, inkjet heads, ink and supply systems, and roll-to-roll transport, cultivated through its multifunction printer development. Inkjet printing enables precise patterning and stacking of functional layers in designated locations, allowing for design flexibility and customised sizes. Ricoh believes this approach will contribute to the broader adoption of solar cells in diverse applications.

Building on the results of this space demonstration, Ricoh will continue to enhance the performance and high durability of perovskite solar cells, accelerating development toward early commercialisation.

-Ends-

Related News

• Ricoh perovskite solar cells for space installed on CubSat DENDEN-01 (Japanese)
  https://jp.ricoh.com/release/2024/0625_1   

Related Links

• JAXA Space Exploration Innovation Hub Center
  https://www.ihub-tansa.jaxa.jp/english/
• JAXA HTV-X1 Mission (Japanese)
  https://humans-in-space.jaxa.jp/htv/mission/htv-x1/

About Ricoh

Ricoh is a leading provider of integrated digital services and print and imaging solutions designed to support the digital transformation of workplaces, workspaces and optimise business performance.

Headquartered in Tokyo, Ricoh’s global operation reaches customers in approximately 200 countries and regions, supported by cultivated knowledge, technologies, and organisational capabilities nurtured over its 85-year history. In the financial year ended March 2025, Ricoh Group had worldwide sales of 2,527 billion yen (approx. 16.8 billion USD).

It is Ricoh’s mission and vision to empower individuals to find ‘Fulfilment through Work’ by understanding and transforming how people work so we can unleash their potential and creativity to realise a sustainable future.

For further information, please visit www.ricoh.com

© 2025 RICOH ASIA PACIFIC PTE LTD. All rights reserved. All referenced product names are the trademarks of their respective companies.

Ruling reduces market confusion and reinforces GNC’s science‑backed leadership; company accelerates partnership with Watsons to deliver best‑in‑class wellness solutions for consumers

PITTSBURGH, Oct. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — GNC, the global leader in science‑backed health and wellness, welcomed the Singapore International Commercial Court’s (“SICC”) decision to uphold an arbitration award requiring ONI Global Pte. Ltd. and LAC Global (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. (collectively, “ONI/LAC Global”) to assign to GNC store leases previously operated by ONI/LAC Global as GNC franchise stores, and to pay approximately USD 46.9 million to GNC. The SICC’s decision marks an important milestone in bringing clarity to the Singapore market and reaffirms GNC’s commitment to protecting consumers while strengthening the brand’s presence across Singapore.

The SICC’s decision aligns with the arbitration award, reinforcing GNC’s commitment to safeguard consumers and restore brand leadership in Singapore. By affirming GNC’s rights to the relevant store leases, these rulings establish a clear framework for potential next steps. As a first step in relation to the assignment of the relevant store leases to GNC, the arbitration award requires ONI/LAC Global to hand over to GNC all lease agreements for 54 former GNC franchise store locations in Singapore. In the event landlord consent is required for the assignment of the relevant store leases, the arbitration award requires ONI/LAC Global to make all reasonable efforts to secure landlord consent as promptly as possible. ONI/LAC Global have appealed against the SICC’s decision.

“The SICC’s decision helps eliminate confusion and ensures consumers can confidently access authentic, science‑backed GNC products,” said Cheri Mullen, SVP Chief International Officer. “We are grateful for the court’s clarity. Our focus remains centered on serving customers, supporting partners, and advancing a disciplined expansion that reflects GNC’s best‑in‑class standards.” 

As part of its growth strategy, GNC continues to expand access to its products through its partnership with Watsons – one of Asia’s leading health and beauty retailers – with the popular, growing store-within-a-store concept. Together, the companies are delivering a convenient, trusted shopping experience that blends Watsons’ retail footprint and omnichannel capabilities with GNC’s science‑backed product leadership. Consumers can expect curated assortments, knowledgeable guidance, and seamless access both in‑store and online via Watsons’ channels.

“GNC’s partnership with Watsons has been instrumental in reconnecting Singapore consumers with GNC’s product mix and expertise,” Mrs. Mullen added. “With the SICC’s decision, we are pleased to see clarification in the market that LAC and GNC are distinct, and LAC does not distribute GNC products.”

As implementation progresses, consumers in Singapore can shop with confidence at official GNC touchpoints, exclusively at Watsons stores and Watsons’ online platforms, knowing they are purchasing authentic GNC products supported by the brand’s science‑backed standards.

About GNC

GNC is a leading global health and wellness brand that provides customers with a wide variety of science-backed products and solution services to Live Well. The brand touches consumers worldwide by providing its products and services through company-owned retail locations, domestic and international franchise locations, digital commerce, and strong wholesale and retail partnerships across the globe. GNC’s diversified, multi-channel business model has worldwide reach and a well-recognized, trusted brand. By combining exceptional innovation, product development capabilities, and an extensive global distribution network, GNC manages a best-in-class product portfolio. www.gnc.com.

Media contact: media@gnc-hq.com 

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates, Oct. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — International Industrial Partners (IIP) today announced that it has entered a distributor partnership with Nissan Chemical America to market and distribute nanoActiv^® technology. nanoActiv^® is the world’s first brine-resistant nanoparticle technology, used in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR). IIP will market nanoActiv^® across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), helping oil producers improve recovery efficiency and sustainability.

This strategic collaboration marks a significant advancement in the use of nanotechnology for Enhanced Oil Recovery. Nissan Chemical America’s brine-resistant nanoparticle is the only technology of its kind designed to maintain stability and performance in high-salinity environments, conditions that traditionally limit nanoparticle EOR efficiency. The technology enables oil producers to achieve higher recovery rates, lower operational costs, and reduce environmental impact.

Under the agreement, IIP will lead marketing, distribution, and regional support for the technology across MENA and other key markets globally, leveraging IIP’s extensive network, experience, and customer base. Nissan Chemical America will oversee product innovation, research, and technical support to ensure optimal performance in field applications.

“We are very excited to partner with Nissan Chemical America to supply nanoActiv^® technology, which we believe will transform Enhanced Oil Recovery in the region.” – William R. Florman, Co-Founder and President, International Industrial Partners.

Nissan Quote

“This partnership highlights the commitment of both companies to advance sustainable, high-performance technologies that improve global energy production through innovation and collaboration.” – William L. Smith, President, Nissan Chemical America.

About IIP

International Industrial Partners is an industrial development and technology firm that delivers advanced solutions to enhance performance, efficiency, and sustainability across the energy, mining, and water sectors. IIP specializes in integrating innovative technologies into large-scale industrial projects, including Enhanced Oil Recovery, natural gas liquids (NGL) processing, mining waste and metals recovery, and industrial water treatment. Through its global partnerships, IIP connects breakthrough innovations with real-world industry needs to drive smarter, more sustainable operations.

Learn more at www.internationalip.com

About Nissan Chemical America

Nissan Chemical America, a subsidiary of Nissan Chemical Corporation, is a global leader in advanced materials, nanotechnology, and performance chemicals. The company develops high-value products that improve efficiency, productivity, and sustainability across multiple industries, including energy, electronics, and life sciences. Nissan Chemical America is committed to pioneering innovative solutions that contribute to a cleaner, more efficient, and more sustainable future.

For more information, visit www.nissanchem-usa.com

Contact: Jennifer Roush IIP
Email: jenr@rfgroupcompanies.com

MELBOURNE, Australia, Oct. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Anker Innovations, a global leader in consumer technology and smart energy solutions, presented its most comprehensive multi-brand lineup to date at All Energy Australia 2025, featuring innovations that connect power, storage, charging, and smart living. Proven globally and trusted locally since 2011, Anker continues to demonstrate its commitment to empowering Australian households with reliable, future-ready solutions that meet both international standards and local needs.

As the world’s No. 1 mobile charging brand, Anker has set industry benchmarks for innovation and reliability. Its family of brands has earned the trust of millions of customers across more than 140 countries. Soundcore ranks among the top three wireless headphone brands worldwide, Anker SOLIX leads as the world’s No. 1 plug-and-play balcony solar battery storage brand, and eufy is Australia’s No. 1 smart home security camera brand. Building on this strong foundation, Anker continues to expand its local presence through trusted retail and energy partners, reinforcing its long-term commitment to serving Australian consumers. 

Smarter Energy and Home Solutions for Australians

At the Anker booth, visitors explored the Anker SOLIX energy ecosystem, offering versatile indoor and outdoor solutions—from entry-level to professional-grade. The flagship Anker SOLIX X1 Energy Storage System provides hybrid and AC-coupled options, is VPP-ready for smart grid integration, and will soon support whole-home backup capability—delivering flexible, future-proof energy for Australian homes. Paired with the new V1 Smart EV Charger, it completes a seamless solar-storage-charging ecosystem designed for reliability across Australia’s diverse climates.

The portable power lineup captured strong attention with models tailored for home backup and outdoor lifestyles. Anker SOLIX C1000 Gen 2, recognised by Guinness World Records as the fastest-recharging 1kWh portable power station, achieves a full recharge in just 49 minutes with HyperFlash™ technology. C2000 Gen 2 delivers exceptional energy efficiency as the most efficient portable backup solution, while F3000 stands out as the longest-lasting essential home backup power, perfectly paired with EverFrost 2 electric cooler, bringing the perfect combo for off-grid and weekend adventures—Power Your Wild, Stay Chill. Together with PS400 bifacial solar panel, these solutions provide flexible, reliable energy for home, travel, and every outdoor experience.

In parallel, Anker Prime and Anker Nano highlighted Anker’s ongoing leadership in fast-charging innovation. The flagship Anker Prime series delivers powerful, intelligent charging performance with refined craftsmanship—designed for users who demand the best in speed, safety, and reliability. The compact and portable Anker Nano series offers effortless fast charging with broad device compatibility, making it the ideal everyday companion for modern lifestyles. Alongside these, eufy’s ExpertSecure™ System demonstrated how AI-driven monitoring and uninterrupted 24/7 operation enable smarter, safer living—completing Anker’s connected ecosystem from home energy to home security.

Building a Sustainable Future, Together

Anker also announced key collaborations with Amber Electric, Origin Energy, and Harvey Norman, underscoring its growing influence in Australia’s clean energy and smart home markets. These partnerships reflect Anker SOLIX’s dedication to supporting Australia’s sustainable energy transition while enhancing everyday consumer experiences.

By uniting its global expertise with a deepening local presence, Anker continues to deliver on its commitment to innovation, reliability, and sustainability—empowering Australians to live smarter and greener lives.

Learn more at www.anker.com/au and www.ankersolix.com/au.

MELBOURNE, Australia, Oct. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — For the first time, Anker Innovations participated in All Energy Australia 2025, the Southern Hemisphere’s largest clean energy exhibition, bringing multiple renowned brands under one roof. Leveraging the parent company’s global innovation strength and proven local expertise, Anker SOLIX unveiled upgraded home energy solutions designed specifically for Australian households, becoming one of the highlights of the event.

Founded in 2011, Anker Innovations is the world’s No. 1 mobile charging brand, trusted by over 200 million users across 146 countries for its innovation and reliability. In Europe, its energy brand Anker SOLIX rapidly emerged as the world’s No. 1 plug–and–play balcony energy storage brand after entering the market. In Australia and New Zealand, Anker operates more than 1,400 brand and retail partner stores across the region, while over one million households trust its sub–brand eufy, recognised as Australia’s No.1 Smart Home Security Camera Brand in 2025. Anker Innovations continues to combine global reach with local insight to deliver smarter, safer, and more sustainable living experiences worldwide.

Since the official launch of Anker SOLIX X1 Energy Storage System in Sydney this April, installations have grown rapidly, driven by Australia’s “Cheaper Home Batteries” program and an expanding local service network.

“As demand for solar + storage + backup solutions continues to surge, market competition is heating up, yet not all brands can deliver on their long–term service commitments,” said Symons Xie, General Manager of Anker SOLIX APAC. “Anker SOLIX has established local technical and after–sales support in  Australia to provide long–term, reliable, and sustainable service and support for both consumers and installers,” he added.

At All Energy 2025, Anker SOLIX showcased upgrades to its X1 system, along with new products, services, and integrations across its energy ecosystem:

• Virtual power plant (VPP) integration with Amber Electric and Origin Energy unlocks the full potential of home energy storage, greatly reducing electricity costs.
• The Anker SOLIX X1 hybrid single–phase model connects two units in parallel to deliver up to 10kW of output and 60kWh of storage capacity, reaching the 50kWh rebate limit and meeting energy demands of larger homes.
• The Anker SOLIX Power Dock Pro, launching in Q1  2026, is a smart energy gateway for easy whole–home backup integration. With a built–in meter and optimised wiring, it cuts installation time by 30% and supports solar and generator compatibility to deliver smarter, more reliable power for every home.*

      *Generator compatibility will be available in a future update.

• The new Anker SOLIX V1 Smart EV Charger seamlessly connects with X1 to enable efficient sector coupling between solar, storage, and mobility. Its innovative, user-friendly technologies—including IntelliGesture™—earned it the IFA 2025 Innovation Award for Accessibility.
• The new Anker SOLIX F3000 and EverFrost 2 are engineered to empower the Aussie lifestyle—delivering power and chill that last through every adventure.

During the event, Anker SOLIX announced new partnerships with Amber and Origin as ecosystem partners, and Sol Distribution and Harvey Norman as strategic partners, and new premium retailer recognitions, reinforcing its commitment to building an open, reliable, and sustainable energy ecosystem in Australia.

With strong R&D capabilities and a robust service system, Anker  SOLIX is leading Australia into a new era of dependable, intelligent energy solutions, making true energy independence a reality with reliable whole-home backup power.

For more information, visit: https://www.ankersolix.com/au/partner-form?ref=installer

• Rosewood Hong Kong (No.1) has been named The World’s Best Hotel 2025
• The list celebrates hotels from 22 destinations across six continents, plus 20 new entries
• Passalacqua (No.4), Lake Como, wins the Best Boutique Hotel Award, for a second year
• Desa Potato Head (No.18) in Bali wins the Eco Hotel Award, audited by the Sustainable Restaurant Association
• Mandarin Oriental Qianmen in Beijing (No.14) wins the Nikka Best New Hotel Award
• Ian Schrager is honoured with the SevenRooms Icon Award
• The new Johnnie Walker Art of Design Award is presented to Singita – Kruger National Park (No.40)
• Other accolades include Ferrari Trento Most Admired Hotel Group Award, awarded to Four Seasons; WhistlePig Highest Climber Award goes to Royal Mansour (No.13) in Marrakech; CopacabanaPalace (No.11) in Rio de Janeiro wins the Lavazza Highest New Entry Award; and the Lost Explorer Best Beach Hotel Award goes to Atlantis The Royal (No.6), Dubai

LONDON, Oct. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The list of The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 has been revealed at a prestigious awards ceremony.

Rosewood Hong Kong is named No.1 in The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 at the live awards ceremony held in London on 30 October. The list features hotels from 22 destinations across six continents,along with several special award winners.

The unveiling recognises outstanding hotel experiences across the globe, establishing new standards of excellence and serving as a source of inspiration for travellers and hospitality professionals.

See the full list of The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 here.

Rosewood Hong Kong (No.1) takes the top spot, climbing two places from No.3 in 2024. Opened in 2019, the 65-storey property boasts extraordinary views over Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong’s skyline. No.2 goes to Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River. Last year’s No.1, Capella Bangkok, takes the No.3 spot.

Asia leads the way with 20 ranked hotels, including four in Tokyo: Bulgari Tokyo (No.15), Aman Tokyo (No.25), Janu Tokyo (No.37) and The Tokyo Edition Toranomon (No.45). Both Hong Kong and Bangkok feature three hotels including: Upper House Hong Kong (No.10) and Mandarin Oriental Bangkok (No.7).

Europe has 17 winning hotels, including five in the UK, and four in each France and Italy. Elsewhere in Europe, Four Seasons Astir Palace (No.17) in Greece, Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo (No.36), Grand Park Hotel Rovinj (No.48) in Croatia and Hotel Sacher Vienna (No.49) feature. 

North America lists six properties and Africa has three hotels. Oceania and South America each boast two hotels on the list including Capella Sydney (No.12) and Rosewood São Paulo (No.24).

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