Essity Exploring Options for Consumer Tissue Business

Essity is reporting that it is initiating a strategic review of its Consumer Tissue business area’s global operations. The review will evaluate strategic alternatives with the aim of creating the best possible conditions for the business and the group to develop to their full potential and maximize value creation. In coming months, the Swedish health and hygiene giant’s board of directors will evaluated different alternatives for the unit, which could lead to separation, although no such decisions have yet been taken. 

“Essity’s Consumer Tissue business has a strong offering under its own brands, retailer brands and through private label, with leading market positions and an efficient supply chain. The strategic review will evaluate different options for the ownership of consumer tissue and is part of our efforts to optimize Essity’s product portfolio and maximize value creation,” says Ulrika Kolsrud, president and CEO, Essity.

In 2025, net sales for the Consumer Tissue business area amounted to $46 billion, representing 31% of the group’s net sales. The business includes products such as toilet paper, household towels, handkerchiefs, facial tissues, moist tissue and paper napkins under brands such as Lotus, Tempo, Zewa, Cushelle, Plenty, Regio and Familia. Essity also produces consumer tissue for retailer’s own brands and private label markets. In consumer tissue, Essity is the market leader in Europe and the second largest player in Latin America.

The business area includes approximately 13,000 employees and 29 production facilities.