12 May 2026: Essity announced the launch of a strategic review of its global Consumer Tissue business area, with the objective of evaluating alternatives aimed at maximising long-term value creation and supporting future development opportunities.

According to the company, the review will assess different strategic options for the business, which could potentially include a separation, although no decisions have been made at this stage. Essity stated that the initiative forms part of its continuous evaluation of the Group’s product portfolio to strengthen competitiveness and improve shareholder value.

“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,” said Ulrika Kolsrud, President and CEO of Essity.

Strong market positions in Europe and Latin America
In 2025, Essity’s Consumer Tissue business generated net sales of SEK 43.5 billion, representing approximately 31% of the Group’s total net sales. The business area reported an EBITA excluding items affecting comparability of SEK 5.2 billion, corresponding to an EBITA margin of 11.9%, while return on capital employed reached 14.7%.

The division includes products such as toilet paper, household towels, facial tissues, handkerchiefs, moist tissues and paper napkins marketed under brands including Lotus, Tempo, Zewa, Cushelle, Plenty, Regio and Familia. In addition to branded products, Essity also manufactures consumer tissue products for retailers’ own brands and private label customers.

Global manufacturing footprint
Essity’s Consumer Tissue business employs approximately 13,000 people and operates 29 production facilities globally. The company holds a leading position in the European consumer tissue market and ranks as the second-largest player in Latin America.

The strategic review is expected to evaluate how the business can further develop under the most suitable ownership and operational structure, while supporting Essity’s broader strategy focused on portfolio optimisation and long-term growth.