Global Surgical Scrub Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Product;
Gel and Soap.By Type;
Water-Based, Waterless.By Application;
Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Centers, and Clinics.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Surgical Scrub Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Surgical Scrub Market was valued at USD 175.78 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 217.67 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.1%.
The global surgical scrub market plays a critical role in maintaining sterile environments during surgical procedures, safeguarding both patients and medical professionals from potential infections. Surgical scrubs are essential components of personal protective equipment (PPE) in hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers, ensuring the hygiene and safety of healthcare providers, especially surgeons, nurses, and other operating room staff. These scrubs are designed to effectively remove dirt, oils, and microorganisms from the skin to minimize the risk of contamination and infection. With the increasing number of surgeries performed globally, the demand for surgical scrubs has surged, driven by advancements in healthcare and the growing focus on infection control protocols. Furthermore, rising concerns over hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) and the growing emphasis on maintaining sterile surgical environments are fueling the market for these critical hygiene products.
As the global healthcare landscape continues to evolve, factors such as the expansion of healthcare infrastructure, an aging population, and the rise in the frequency of chronic diseases and surgical procedures have contributed to the growth of the surgical scrub market. The rise of minimally invasive surgeries and robotic surgeries, where maintaining a sterile environment is paramount, has also amplified the need for high-quality surgical scrub products. Additionally, increasing awareness among healthcare professionals regarding the importance of infection prevention and the role of proper hand hygiene in reducing healthcare-associated infections has driven demand for surgical scrubs that offer superior performance in microbial protection. These scrubs typically come in a variety of forms, including antiseptic surgical scrubs, antimicrobial scrubs, and scrub solutions, offering a range of formulations and effectiveness levels.
The market for surgical scrubs is also influenced by ongoing innovations in scrub formulations and materials. Antimicrobial and antiseptic scrubs are gaining popularity for their enhanced ability to reduce harmful pathogens on the skin, ensuring an additional layer of protection against infection. The market is also witnessing the development of eco-friendly surgical scrub options that are biodegradable and made from sustainable materials, reflecting a growing preference for environmentally conscious products. The expanding surgical scrub market is highly competitive, with leading manufacturers focusing on improving the quality and effectiveness of their products to meet the rising demands for hygiene standards in healthcare facilities. As the healthcare sector continues to grow globally, the surgical scrub market is poised to see significant advancements in product innovation, regulatory compliance, and customer demand, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes and patient safety.
Global Surgical Scrub Market Recent Developments
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In 2024, innovations in antimicrobial surgical scrubs and hand sanitizers are gaining traction to prevent infections during surgeries, enhancing patient safety
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In 2023, a surge in demand for single-use surgical scrubs has emerged due to heightened hygiene standards in hospitals worldwide.
Segment Analysis
The global surgical scrub market is segmented by product type into various forms, including scrub solutions, scrub brushes, and scrub pads. Scrub solutions are the most widely used, available in various antiseptic and antimicrobial formulations. These solutions are applied by healthcare professionals to cleanse their hands and forearms before performing surgical procedures, ensuring the removal of bacteria and contaminants. Scrub brushes are used in combination with the scrub solutions to ensure thorough cleaning and to reduce the presence of microorganisms, while scrub pads are designed for more localized cleaning of surgical instruments or skin surfaces. The demand for these products is growing due to heightened infection control measures, with scrub solutions particularly favored for their versatility and efficacy in maintaining sterility.
The type segment of the market includes antimicrobial surgical scrubs, antiseptic surgical scrubs, and alcohol-based surgical scrubs. Antimicrobial surgical scrubs are gaining popularity due to their broad-spectrum effectiveness in eliminating various pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, which is crucial in high-risk surgeries. Antiseptic surgical scrubs, typically containing ingredients like chlorhexidine or iodine, are favored for their long-lasting effects in killing bacteria and other microorganisms. Alcohol-based surgical scrubs, which often combine isopropyl alcohol and other active agents, provide quick and effective hand sanitation. As the demand for advanced infection control products increases, the adoption of these different scrub types is rising, especially in surgical settings where minimizing infection risks is critical.
In terms of application, the surgical scrub market is driven by the needs of hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers. Hospitals are the largest end-users of surgical scrubs, particularly in operating rooms and emergency departments, where frequent surgeries are performed. Clinics and surgical centers also contribute significantly to the market, as outpatient procedures and elective surgeries increase globally. These healthcare settings require high-quality scrub products to maintain hygiene standards, reduce the risk of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), and enhance patient safety. The market’s growth is further bolstered by increased government regulations that mandate strict sterilization procedures across healthcare facilities, pushing for greater adoption of surgical scrubs.
Geographically, the global surgical scrub market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America leads the market, primarily due to advanced healthcare systems, high rates of surgical procedures, and stringent infection control regulations. The U.S. and Canada have well-established healthcare infrastructure and a high awareness of infection control, driving the demand for surgical scrub products. Europe follows closely, with Germany, France, and the UK being major contributors due to their robust healthcare systems and high surgical procedure volumes. In Asia Pacific, the market is experiencing rapid growth due to increasing healthcare investments, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and rising awareness of hygiene standards in countries like China, India, and Japan. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are emerging regions, with significant growth potential driven by healthcare modernization, medical tourism, and the increasing focus on preventing healthcare-associated infections.
Global Surgical Scrub Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Surgical Scrub Market has been segmented by Product, Type, Application and Geography.
Global Surgical Scrub Market, Segmentation by Product
The Global Surgical Scrub Market has been segmented by Product Into Gel and Soap.
Surgical scrub gels are formulated to provide a more convenient and efficient method for hand and skin disinfection. They typically contain antimicrobial agents such as chlorhexidine, iodine, or alcohol, which work effectively to eliminate pathogens. Gels are favored in high-volume surgical environments due to their ease of use and quick application, requiring less water compared to traditional scrubs. They are particularly popular in settings where efficiency and time-saving are crucial, such as in emergency surgeries or minimally invasive procedures. The ability to apply gel without the need for rinsing is a major advantage, reducing the risk of cross-contamination in environments where hygiene is paramount.
On the other hand, surgical scrub soaps are widely used for hand washing and skin cleaning, especially in hospital operating rooms and surgical clinics. These soaps often contain similar antimicrobial agents as gels but are designed in a liquid or foaming format, which is typically used in combination with water for thorough cleaning. Surgical soap is applied in a more traditional manner, where hands and forearms are scrubbed to ensure complete microbial removal before surgical procedures. This product is preferred in settings that emphasize thorough and prolonged cleansing, as it offers an effective way to reduce the microbial load on the skin.
Both gel and soap products play a critical role in infection control within surgical environments, but they cater to different needs. Gel products are often seen as more modern and efficient, particularly in busy settings where speed and convenience are important. Meanwhile, soap-based scrubs are considered a traditional option that ensures meticulous cleansing when applied correctly. As hospitals and clinics seek to maintain high hygiene standards, both product types continue to be in demand, with the choice between them largely dependent on the specific needs of the healthcare facility and its infection control protocols.
Global Surgical Scrub Market, Segmentation by Type
The Global Surgical Scrub Market has been segmented by Type Into Water-Based, Waterless.
Water-based surgical scrubs are the traditional choice in most healthcare settings, requiring the use of water to activate the cleaning agents. These scrubs typically contain antimicrobial or antiseptic agents like chlorhexidine gluconate, povidone-iodine, or alcohol-based compounds, which work in combination with water to cleanse the skin and eliminate contaminants. Water-based scrubs are ideal for thorough, longer scrubbing sessions, ensuring that hands, forearms, and other areas exposed to surgical procedures are free from bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. These scrubs are widely used in hospitals and surgical centers where standard hand-washing protocols are strictly followed to meet infection control standards.
On the other hand, waterless surgical scrubs are increasingly popular in environments where efficiency and convenience are priorities. These scrubs, typically formulated as gel-based or foam-based products, do not require water for use. They are activated with friction alone and are designed to remove pathogens effectively without needing a rinse. Waterless scrubs are highly favored in fast-paced environments, such as emergency rooms or ambulatory surgical centers, where quick hand sanitation is crucial. These scrubs often contain alcohol and other antiseptic agents to provide rapid microbial killing, making them an ideal choice in situations where time is limited, and access to running water may be restricted.
Both water-based and waterless surgical scrubs have their advantages and are designed to meet the diverse needs of healthcare providers. Water-based scrubs provide a more traditional, thorough cleansing process, making them suitable for extended surgical procedures where a deeper level of microbial decontamination is needed. Meanwhile, waterless scrubs offer flexibility, speed, and convenience, making them perfect for minimally invasive surgeries, quick procedures, and healthcare settings that prioritize operational efficiency. As hygiene standards continue to evolve and demand for infection control intensifies, both types of surgical scrubs are likely to remain integral to the global surgical scrub market.
Global Surgical Scrub Market, Segmentation by Application
The Global Surgical Scrub Market has been segmented by Application Into Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Centers and Clinics.
Hospitals are the largest end-users of surgical scrubs, primarily due to the high volume of inpatient surgeries and emergency procedures conducted daily. Hospitals, particularly operating rooms and surgical units, require surgical scrubs that provide effective antimicrobial protection to reduce the risk of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). Hospitals often adopt both water-based and waterless scrub options, depending on the procedure and available resources. Water-based scrubs are commonly used for thorough hand scrubbing before long or complex surgeries, while waterless options are ideal for quick sanitation during emergency surgeries or between procedures. Hospitals' stringent hygiene protocols and their focus on patient safety drive the ongoing demand for high-quality, effective surgical scrubs.
Ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs), which perform same-day surgical procedures that do not require overnight stays, represent another key segment of the surgical scrub market. ASCs typically conduct minimally invasive surgeries, outpatient procedures, and other routine surgeries that require quick turnaround times. As these centers prioritize operational efficiency, waterless surgical scrubs are particularly popular due to their convenience and speed. Surgeons and medical staff in ASCs need scrubs that ensure rapid disinfection without the time commitment of traditional water-based scrubs. The adoption of waterless solutions has surged in these centers, where quick sanitization is essential to keep up with a high volume of procedures and patient flow.
Clinics also represent a growing segment in the surgical scrub market. Clinics, which handle a wide range of minor surgical procedures, diagnostic treatments, and outpatient care, require surgical scrubs that meet infection control standards while accommodating a variety of medical practices. Like ambulatory surgical centers, clinics often adopt waterless surgical scrubs to improve workflow and ensure hygiene in time-sensitive environments. However, depending on the clinic's specialization (e.g., dermatology or dentistry), there may still be a preference for water-based scrubs for thorough disinfection. The increasing number of specialized clinics and outpatient procedures across the globe is driving demand for surgical scrub solutions that combine both antimicrobial efficacy and convenience.
The segmentation of the global surgical scrub market by application highlights the diverse needs across hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, and clinics. Each of these environments prioritizes different aspects of surgical hygiene, leading to the demand for a range of surgical scrub products that can be tailored to various procedural contexts and patient safety requirements. As healthcare infrastructure continues to evolve, particularly in emerging markets, the need for effective and efficient surgical scrub solutions is expected to grow in each of these key sectors.
Global Surgical Scrub Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Surgical Scrub Market has been segmented by Geography Into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Surgical Scrub Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
North America is one of the leading markets for surgical scrubs, driven by the advanced healthcare infrastructure and high healthcare spending in countries like the United States and Canada. The increasing number of surgeries, coupled with stringent healthcare regulations focused on infection control, boosts the demand for surgical scrubs in the region. Hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers in North America adhere to strict infection control protocols, thereby pushing the demand for both water-based and waterless surgical scrub solutions. The region is also at the forefront of adopting innovative antimicrobial scrub formulations that provide additional protection against healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).
In Europe, countries like Germany, France, and the UK play a significant role in the surgical scrub market. The region’s well-established healthcare systems, along with increasing awareness of infection prevention, fuel the demand for effective surgical hygiene solutions. The European Union's regulatory environment, which enforces rigorous standards for healthcare products, further accelerates the adoption of high-quality surgical scrubs in hospitals and outpatient clinics. As minimally invasive surgeries and specialized surgical procedures increase, demand for both water-based and waterless scrub products is expected to continue to rise, especially in countries with high surgery volumes.
The Asia Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth in the surgical scrub market due to expanding healthcare infrastructure, rising surgical volumes, and growing awareness of infection prevention in countries like China, India, and Japan. As the healthcare industry in these emerging markets evolves, there is an increasing demand for surgical scrubs, particularly in hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers. The rise in surgical procedures, especially in cosmetic surgery, orthopedic surgeries, and cardiovascular treatments, has led to a surge in demand for antimicrobial and antiseptic surgical scrub solutions. The Asia Pacific region’s significant market growth is attributed to expanding healthcare investments and the increasing adoption of international hygiene standards.
In the Middle East and Africa, the market for surgical scrubs is growing due to advancements in healthcare infrastructure and the rising number of surgical procedures. Countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa are modernizing their healthcare facilities and adopting global best practices in infection control. The rising focus on medical tourism in the region is also driving demand for surgical scrubs, as international patients expect the highest standards of hygiene during surgical procedures. The adoption of waterless surgical scrubs in this region is particularly on the rise due to the efficiency and convenience they offer in high-paced environments.
Latin American region, comprising countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina, is witnessing steady growth in the surgical scrub market, driven by increasing healthcare investments and expanding healthcare facilities. As healthcare standards improve and the number of surgeries rises, especially in cosmetic and orthopedic fields, the demand for surgical scrubs is expected to grow. Both water-based and waterless surgical scrub products are increasingly being adopted in hospitals and clinics to comply with hygiene standards and minimize infection risks, with particular growth seen in Brazil and Mexico, where healthcare modernization is rapidly progressing.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Surgical Scrub Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers
- Increasing Number of Surgeries
- Rising Focus on Infection Control
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Advancements in Scrub Formulations-Advancements in scrub formulations have become a key driver in the growth of the global surgical scrub market, as healthcare systems around the world seek more effective and efficient solutions for infection control. These advancements refer to the continuous development of new antimicrobial agents, improved product formulations, and innovative delivery systems that enhance the performance of surgical scrubs while ensuring safety and convenience for healthcare professionals.
One of the primary drivers behind these advancements is the increasing demand for broad-spectrum antiseptics that can effectively eliminate a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Formulations incorporating chlorhexidine gluconate, iodine-based compounds, and alcohols have seen significant improvements in terms of their efficacy and skin compatibility. These formulations are designed not only to remove dirt and microorganisms but also to offer prolonged antimicrobial activity, reducing the risk of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). With enhanced formulations, scrubs now provide longer-lasting protection, which is critical in environments like operating rooms where high levels of hygiene must be maintained for extended periods.
In addition to improved antimicrobial properties, advancements in scrub formulations have also focused on enhancing the skin compatibility of products. Healthcare professionals often use surgical scrubs multiple times a day, which can lead to skin irritation, dryness, and other dermatological issues. To address this concern, manufacturers have developed scrubs with moisturizing agents and skin-protecting compounds, such as aloe vera and glycerin, to minimize skin damage and ensure that scrubbing does not lead to excessive skin irritation. This has made surgical scrubs more user-friendly and has contributed to greater compliance with hygiene protocols in surgical settings.
Restraints
- High Cost of Premium Scrub Products
- Stringent Regulatory Requirements
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Availability of Substitute Products-Availability of substitute products is a significant restraint in the global surgical scrub market, as the growing range of alternative products that also promote hygiene and infection control creates competition for traditional surgical scrubs. Alternatives such as alcohol-based hand sanitizers, antiseptic wipes, and antimicrobial gels have gained widespread popularity, particularly in environments where quick and convenient hand sanitization is needed. These substitutes offer the advantage of easy portability, faster application, and, in many cases, less time-consuming procedures, which may lead healthcare professionals to opt for these products instead of traditional scrubs.
One key factor contributing to the popularity of alcohol-based hand sanitizers is their ease of use. They require no water or scrubbing, making them highly convenient for use in ambulatory surgical centers, clinics, and emergency rooms, where time is often of the essence. These products are effective at killing a broad spectrum of pathogens, making them a suitable alternative in situations that demand rapid hygiene. For instance, hospital staff may use hand sanitizers between patient visits or in situations where water and traditional scrub facilities are not readily available. This convenience factor can reduce the demand for traditional water-based or gel scrubs, particularly in non-surgical settings or for short procedures, ultimately impacting the sales of conventional surgical scrubs.
Moreover, antiseptic wipes and antimicrobial gels are also becoming widely used as substitutes for surgical scrubs, especially in preoperative settings or for minor procedures. These products can be used quickly and effectively on the skin, helping to disinfect the surgical site and hands without the need for a full scrub. They often contain similar active ingredients found in surgical scrubs, such as chlorhexidine or alcohol-based compounds, and provide a viable option when traditional scrubbing is not feasible due to time constraints or availability of water. As healthcare providers adopt these alternative products for their ease of use and speed, the demand for traditional water-based or foam-based surgical scrubs may be somewhat restrained, especially in less complex procedures.
Finally, the availability of substitute products can also affect pricing dynamics in the surgical scrub market. As more cost-effective alternatives, such as alcohol-based sanitizers or disposable wipes, become more widespread, healthcare providers may lean towards these options, especially in regions with limited budgets or where healthcare costs are under pressure. This shift could hinder the growth of traditional surgical scrub products, as hospitals and surgical centers look for lower-cost solutions that still provide adequate antimicrobial protection. Consequently, manufacturers of surgical scrubs will need to innovate further to differentiate their products and demonstrate added value, such as longer-lasting antimicrobial effects, skin-friendly formulations, or greater overall efficacy in infection prevention, to remain competitive in an increasingly crowded market.
Opportunities
- Growth in Healthcare Infrastructure
- Rising Adoption of Antimicrobial and Antiseptic Scrubs
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Development of Eco-friendly and Sustainable Scrub Products-The development of eco-friendly and sustainable scrub products represents a significant opportunity for growth in the global surgical scrub market, as there is increasing demand for environmentally conscious solutions within the healthcare industry. With growing awareness of environmental sustainability, hospitals and healthcare providers are becoming more focused on reducing their ecological footprint. This has led to a rising interest in products that minimize waste, use sustainable ingredients, and reduce the overall environmental impact of medical procedures. By developing surgical scrubs with eco-friendly packaging and ingredients, manufacturers can tap into this expanding market and cater to the changing preferences of both healthcare institutions and consumers.
A key aspect of the eco-friendly surgical scrub market is the use of biodegradable or recyclable packaging. Many traditional scrub products come in single-use plastic containers, which contribute to the growing issue of plastic waste in the healthcare sector. By innovating with biodegradable packaging or recyclable materials, manufacturers can offer a more sustainable alternative that aligns with global efforts to reduce plastic waste. Additionally, eco-friendly scrubs that use natural, plant-based ingredients and organic compounds instead of synthetic chemicals or harsh antiseptics can cater to the growing preference for products that are both effective in infection control and gentle on the environment. This development not only aligns with sustainability trends but also supports hospitals and surgical centers in meeting their environmental goals.
The demand for sustainable scrub products is also driven by healthcare providers looking to reduce their carbon footprint and promote environmentally responsible practices within their institutions. For example, hospitals that are actively working towards green certification or following sustainability initiatives are increasingly choosing eco-friendly surgical scrub options. These hospitals recognize the importance of sourcing products that are not only effective in preventing infections but also in contributing to the overall environmental sustainability of their operations. As regulations and standards around sustainability continue to tighten, manufacturers that offer environmentally responsible surgical scrubs are likely to benefit from increased demand in regions where sustainability is becoming a higher priority.
In conclusion, the development of eco-friendly and sustainable scrub products presents a lucrative opportunity for manufacturers in the global surgical scrub market. By focusing on sustainable ingredients, packaging, and product design, companies can meet the growing demand for green alternatives in healthcare settings. With both environmental concerns and healthcare sustainability initiatives on the rise, this market opportunity provides a pathway for businesses to differentiate themselves, expand their customer base, and align with global efforts to promote a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Surgical Scrub Market include;
- STERIS
- Ecolab
- Narang Medical Limited
- Lords Wear Private Limited
- Proexamine Surgicals Pvt. Ltd.
- Apothecaries Sundries Mfg. Private Limited
- STERIKARE
- Modular Healthcare System
- Superior Group of Companies
- Landau Uniforms
- Strategic Partners
- FIGS, INC.
- Medline Industries, Inc.
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Product
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Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Market Opportunity Map
- Global Surgical Scrub Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
Increasing Number of Surgeries
Rising Focus on Infection Control
Advancements in Scrub Formulations
- Restraints
High Cost of Premium Scrub Products
Stringent Regulatory Requirements
Availability of Substitute Products
- Opportunities
Growth in Healthcare Infrastructure
Rising Adoption of Antimicrobial and Antiseptic Scrubs
Development of Eco-friendly and Sustainable Scrub Products
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Surgical Scrub Market, By Product, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Gel
- Soap
- Global Surgical Scrub Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Water-Based
- Waterless
- Global Surgical Scrub Market, By Application, 2021- 2031 (USD Million)
- Hospital
- Ambulatory Surgical Centers
- Clinics
- Global Surgical Scrub Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Surgical Scrub Market, By Product, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- STERIS
- Ecolab
- Narang Medical Limited
- Lords Wear Private Limited
- Proexamine Surgicals Pvt. Ltd.
- Apothecaries Sundries Mfg. Private Limited
- STERIKARE
- Modular Healthcare System
- Superior Group of Companies
- Landau Uniforms
- Strategic Partners
- FIGS, INC.
- Medline Industries, Inc.
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market