The
tissue paper industry is a major player in the global hygiene market, offering
a variety of essentials like toilet paper, facial tissues, paper towels, and
napkins. These products are a must-have for everyday life, serving homes,
offices, hospitals, and hotels with ease and practicality. Over the years, the
industry has seen significant growth, thanks to advances in technology,
shifting consumer habits, and a greater push for hygiene and eco-friendly
solutions. Tissue papers are all about convenience and cleanliness, making them
a go-to choice for modern lifestyles.
Tissue
market growth is being propelled by urbanization, higher incomes, and rising
awareness about staying clean, especially in developing countries. People are
leaning towards greener options made from recycled or alternative materials,
along with high-end products like super-soft or lotion-infused tissues. On top
of that, online shopping has become a game changer, giving buyers the option to
easily subscribe for regular deliveries.
According to
TechSci Research report “Global Tissue Paper Market By Product (Toilet Paper, Kitchen Towel, Facial Tissues, Napkins,
and Others), By End User (Residential, Food and Beverage Industry, Hospital,
and Others), By Distribution Channel (Hypermarket/ Supermarket, Departmental
Stores, Pharmacy/Drug Stores, Online Sales Channel, and Others), By Region,
Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2026”
Global tissue paper market was valued USD49.6 billion and is expected to reach
USD67.98 billion by the end of 2026, growing at a CAGR of 5.63% through 2026.
When
it comes to regional demand, North America and Europe are the heavyweights,
with people already using a lot of tissue paper and gravitating toward
sustainable, premium options. Asia-Pacific, on the other hand, is the
fastest-growing area, where urbanization and a growing middle class are driving
people to switch to disposable tissues. Meanwhile, places like Latin America
and the Middle East & Africa are seeing more demand thanks to better retail
networks, more urban areas, and booming tourism. Overall, the industry’s future
looks bright, with eco-friendly practices and cutting-edge ideas steering it
forward while meeting global demand.
Key Metrics for
Innovation in the Tissue Paper Market
- The
aspect of Product Development includes the introduction of new tissue
paper varieties or features that enhance functionality, comfort, or
convenience. Innovations might include ultra-soft, lotion-infused, or
fragrance-added tissues. It also includes the development of products made from
alternative fibers, such as bamboo, sugarcane, or recycled materials.
- Advances
in Manufacturing Processes that improve efficiency, reduce costs, and
enhance product quality are crucial. Innovations in tissue production, such as
using more efficient machines or improving pulp-making technologies to make
tissues thinner but stronger, can lead to cost savings and better-quality
products.
- Sustainability as innovation is another great metric
for innovation in this industry. Companies that innovate in terms of
sustainability are key players in the market. This includes using renewable
resources, reducing environmental impact, creating biodegradable or recyclable
packaging, and optimizing production processes to reduce waste. This type of
innovation addresses growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products and
aligns with regulatory trends.
Top 10 Tissue Paper
Companies: Global Ranking
1.
Essity Aktiebolag
Founding Year
|
1929
|
Headquarters
|
Stockholm, Sweden
|
Website
|
https://www.essity.com/
|
Essity
Aktiebolag is a leading Swedish hygiene and health company headquartered in
Stockholm, specializing in the production of essential consumer and
professional hygiene products. Formed in 2017 from a spin-off of the hygiene
operations of SCA, Essity operates under well-known brands such as TENA, Tork,
Libresse, and Lotus, offering a diverse range of products including tissue
paper, baby diapers, feminine care items, incontinence products, and wound care
solutions. With approximately 36,000 employees and sales reaching around EUR 13
billion in 2023, Essity is committed to sustainability and innovation, focusing
on energy-efficient solutions and digital transformation to enhance well-being
globally. The company emphasizes its mission to improve hygiene and health
standards while addressing societal challenges through various initiatives and
partnerships.
Essity
Aktiebolag is a prominent Swedish hygiene and health company based in
Stockholm, specializing in the production of essential consumer and
professional hygiene products. Formed in 2017 from a spin-off of the hygiene
operations of SCA, Essity operates under well-known brands such as TENA,
Tork, Libresse, and Lotus, offering a diverse range of
products that include tissue paper, baby diapers, feminine care items,
incontinence products, and wound care solutions. With a workforce
of approximately 36,000 employees and net sales reaching around EUR 13 billion
in 2023, Essity is committed to sustainability and innovation, focusing on
energy-efficient solutions and digital transformation to enhance well-being
globally.
2.
Procter & Gamble Co.
Founding Year
|
1837
|
Headquarters
|
Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
|
Website
|
https://in.pg.com/
|
Procter
& Gamble (P&G) is a leading American multinational consumer goods
corporation founded in 1837 by William Procter and James Gamble in Cincinnati,
Ohio. Renowned for its diverse product portfolio, P&G operates across
several segments, including Beauty (Olay, Pantene), Grooming
(Gillette), Health Care (Crest), Fabric & Home Care (Tide,
Febreze), and Baby, Feminine & Family Care (Pampers, Always). The
company has a strong global presence, with operations in numerous countries and
a commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. Under the leadership
of CEO Jon Moeller since 2021, P&G continues to focus on improving lives
through its products while adapting to evolving consumer needs and market
challenges.
Procter
& Gamble (P&G) offers a comprehensive portfolio of tissue paper
products tailored to meet various consumer needs, particularly in household and
personal hygiene. The flagship brand, Charmin, is recognized for its
exceptional softness and strength, featuring options like ultra-soft and
ultra-strong toilet paper that have become staples in many homes. For cleaning
purposes, P&G provides Bounty paper towels, known for their high
absorbency and durability, marketed as "The Quicker Picker Upper."
Additionally, the Puffs brand caters to facial tissue needs, offering products
designed for everyday use as well as specialized options such as extra-soft
tissues for sensitive skin or those infused with lotion for enhanced comfort.
P&G also addresses on-the-go cleaning requirements with its range of wet
wipes, including flushable and hygiene wipes available under various brands. In
addition, P&G continually develops features that cater to evolving consumer
preferences, including hypoallergenic options, fragrance-free tissues, and
convenient packaging formats.
3.
Asia Pulp & Paper (APP)
Founding Year
|
1972
|
Headquarters
|
Jakarta, Indonesia
|
Website
|
https://app.co.id/
|
Asia
Pulp & Paper (APP) is one of the largest pulp and paper companies in the
world, headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia. Established in 1972 as Tjiwi Kimia
and officially formed in 1994 under the Sinar Mas Group, APP has grown
significantly, operating in over 150 countries across six continents with an
annual production capacity exceeding 20 million tons. The company is known for
its extensive range of products, including paper, packaging, and tissue, and is
committed to sustainability and corporate social responsibility. APP emphasizes
innovation and environmental stewardship through initiatives like its Sustainability
Roadmap Vision 2030, aiming for carbon neutrality and biodiversity
conservation while maintaining high-quality standards in its operations.
Asia
Pulp & Paper (APP) produces a wide array of tissue paper products tailored
for both consumer and professional markets. Its portfolio includes high-quality
toilet paper brands such as Livi and Paseo, known for their
softness, strength, and affordability, available in various sizes and packaging
formats. APP's facial tissues are designed for comfort and convenience,
catering to different skin sensitivities and preferences. The company also
offers durable and absorbent paper towels and napkins suitable for household
and commercial use, including products specifically designed for the
hospitality and food service sectors. Additionally, APP manufactures wet wipes
under its consumer brands, providing practical solutions for on-the-go hygiene
and cleaning needs. Furthermore, APP serves as a key supplier of private-label
tissue products for retailers around the globe, offering customizable options
to meet diverse market demands.
4.
Georgia-Pacific LLC
Founding Year
|
1927
|
Headquarters
|
Atlanta, Georgia, USA
|
Website
|
https://www.gp.com/
|
Georgia-Pacific
LLC is a major American pulp and paper company headquartered in Atlanta,
Georgia. Established in 1927, it has grown to become one of the world's leading
manufacturers and marketers of a wide range of products, including bath tissue,
paper towels, napkins, tableware, and packaging materials. The company operates
over 150 facilities and employs approximately 30,000 people directly,
contributing to over 89,000 jobs indirectly across various sectors.
Georgia-Pacific is known for its commitment to sustainability and innovation in
product development, utilizing resources from its own timberlands to produce
high-quality goods while minimizing environmental impact.
Georgia-Pacific
offers a comprehensive portfolio of tissue paper products catering to
households, businesses, and institutions. Its key offerings include flagship
toilet paper brands such as Angel Soft and Quilted Northern, which are
recognized for their softness, strength, and affordability, available in
various sizes and options to suit consumer preferences. The company’s Brawny
brand leads the market in durable and highly absorbent paper towels designed
for residential use, while the enMotion line provides efficient and sustainable
solutions for commercial applications. For facial tissues, Georgia-Pacific
manufactures premium products under the Quilted Northern and Angel Soft brands,
focusing on comfort and skin sensitivity. Additionally, through its GP PRO
division, the company produces bulk tissue products tailored for high-traffic
environments like offices, schools, and healthcare facilities, featuring
cost-effective refills and smart dispensing systems. Georgia-Pacific also
offers specialty tissue products, including private-label solutions designed
specifically for the food service and hospitality industries. Overall, the
company is committed to delivering high-quality tissue products while
maintaining a focus on sustainability and innovation in its manufacturing
processes.
5.
Sofidel Group
Founding Year
|
1966
|
Headquarters
|
Porcari (Lucca), Italy
|
Website
|
https://www.sofidel.com/en/
|
Sofidel
is an Italian multinational company established in 1966, specializing in the
production of tissue paper for sanitary and domestic use. Headquartered in
Porcari, Lucca, it has become one of the world leaders in the tissue paper
market and the second largest producer in Europe, operating subsidiaries in 13
countries and employing over 6,600 people. The company is well-known for its
flagship brand, Regina, along with several other brands such as Sopalin, Hakle,
and Softis. Sofidel is committed to sustainability and environmental
responsibility, aiming for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and actively
participating in initiatives like the WWF Climate Savers program. With a
production capacity exceeding 1.4 million tons annually, Sofidel focuses on an integrated
production cycle that encompasses everything from raw material processing to
the creation of finished tissue products.
Sofidel
Group’s tissue paper portfolio is extensive, catering to both individual
households and large organizations. Its flagship brand, Regina, is recognized
for premium toilet paper that combines softness, strength, and sustainability,
offering a variety of options including standard rolls, jumbo rolls, and
eco-friendly alternatives. The Regina brand also features highly absorbent
kitchen towels designed for cleaning and everyday use, with innovative designs
that emphasize durability and efficiency. For facial tissues, Sofidel produces
soft and gentle options under brands like Regina, available in boxes,
pocket-sized packs, and other convenient formats. In the professional sector,
the Papernet brand serves the Away-from-Home (AfH) market by providing tissue
solutions for businesses in healthcare and hospitality, while also being a
major supplier of private-label products for retail chains globally.
Additionally, Sofidel’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its
portfolio of eco-friendly products made from recycled fibers and sustainable
raw materials, reflecting its dedication to environmentally conscious
production practices.
6.
Hengan International Group
Company Ltd.
Founding Year
|
1985
|
Headquarters
|
Jinjiang City Fujian
Province PRC
|
Website
|
https://en.hengan.com/
|
Hengan
International Group Company Ltd. is a leading Chinese manufacturer specializing
in personal hygiene products, including sanitary napkins, disposable diapers,
and household paper products. Founded in 1985, Hengan has established itself as
one of the largest producers in its sector, with a strong market presence in
China and a growing international footprint. The company went public on the
Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 1998 and was included in the Hang Seng Index in
2011, reflecting its sustained growth and financial stability. Hengan operates
multiple brands, such as Anerle for sanitary napkins and baby diapers, and
Hearttex for tissue paper products. With a workforce of approximately 24,000
employees and commitment to quality and innovation, Hengan emphasizes
environmentally friendly practices and has implemented advanced management
reforms to enhance its competitiveness in the global market.
Hengan
International Group Company Ltd. boasts a diverse portfolio of tissue paper
products designed to serve both households and businesses. Its offerings
include high-quality toilet paper produced under popular brands such as
Hearttex and Space 7, recognized for their softness, durability, and
affordability, with options ranging from standard rolls to jumbo packs. The
company also provides facial tissues that prioritize comfort and convenience,
available in boxed and portable formats to cater to various customer
preferences, including fragrance-free and skin-friendly options. Hengan's paper
towels are designed for household cleaning and kitchen use, offering high
absorbency and durability. Additionally, the company supplies a variety of
napkins for dining and catering purposes, along with specialty tissue products
tailored for specific applications. Hengan further supports businesses and
retail partners by offering private-label manufacturing services and commercial
solutions designed to meet institutional needs.
7.
CMPC S.A.
Founding Year
|
1920
|
Headquarters
|
Santiago, Chile
|
Website
|
https://www.cmpc.com/en/
|
CMPC
S.A. is a prominent Chilean holding company established in 1920, headquartered
in Santiago. It operates as a leader in the integrated forest industry,
focusing on the production and marketing of a wide range of products, including
cellulose, paper, tissue, and wood products. CMPC is one of the largest
corporations in Chile and is part of the Matte Group, which engages in various
sectors such as forestry, energy, banking, and manufacturing. The company has a
significant presence across Latin America and beyond, with operations in
countries including Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico. CMPC is committed
to sustainability and innovation, utilizing man-made plantations for its raw
materials and aiming for environmentally responsible production practices.
CMPC
S.A. offers a diverse portfolio of tissue paper products designed to meet the
needs of both consumers and commercial clients, marketed under well-known
brands and private-label options. Its toilet paper range includes high-quality
products from brands like Elite, Confort, and Softys, which are recognized for
their softness, strength, and eco-friendly choices, including recycled and
FSC-certified variants. The company also produces facial tissues that emphasize
comfort and performance, available in various sizes and formats such as boxed
tissues and portable packs. Hengan’s paper towels are designed for durability
and absorbency, making them suitable for household cleaning as well as
commercial use. Additionally, CMPC provides a wide selection of napkins and
specialty tissue products tailored for dining, catering, and industrial
applications. Through its Softys division, CMPC supplies Away-from-Home (AfH)
products that cater to institutions, businesses, and the hospitality sector,
including jumbo rolls, hand towels, and advanced dispenser systems.
8.
Unicharm Corporation
Founding Year
|
1961
|
Headquarters
|
Tokyo, Japan
|
Website
|
https://www.unicharm.co.jp/en/home.html
|
Unicharm
Corporation is a leading Japanese manufacturer established in 1961,
specializing in sanitary products and personal care items. Headquartered in
Tokyo, the company has grown to become one of the largest producers in its
sector, particularly known for its innovative offerings in feminine care, baby
care, and adult incontinence products. Unicharm's product range includes
well-known brands such as Moony for baby diapers, Mamy Poko for premium
disposable diapers, Sofy for feminine hygiene products, and Lifree for adult
care solutions. The company has expanded its operations across Asia, with
subsidiaries in countries like China, Thailand, and South Korea, reflecting its
commitment to meeting the diverse needs of consumers in various markets.
Unicharm
Corporation's tissue paper portfolio is designed to meet a wide array of
consumer and professional needs, emphasizing functionality, quality, and
sustainability. The company offers premium toilet paper known for its softness
and strength, providing a luxurious experience with various sizes and
eco-friendly options available. Unicharm also produces high-quality facial
tissues under its Moony and MamyPoko brands, which are gentle on
sensitive skin and suitable for everyday use. Its paper towels and napkins are
crafted for superior absorbency and durability, making them ideal for both
household and professional applications. Additionally, Unicharm develops
specialized tissue products such as wet wipes and hygienic tissues tailored for
specific markets, including healthcare and childcare. The company further
supports retailers by supplying private-label tissue products and offering
innovative solutions for businesses in the Away-from-Home (AfH) sector.
9.
WEPA Hygieneprodukte GmbH
Founding Year
|
1961
|
Headquarters
|
Tokyo, Japan
|
Website
|
https://www.unicharm.co.jp/en/home.html
|
WEPA
Hygieneprodukte GmbH is a prominent German manufacturer of hygiene paper
products, headquartered in Arnsberg, North Rhine-Westphalia. Founded in 1948,
the company has grown to become the third largest producer of hygiene paper in
Europe, employing approximately 4,000 people and generating a turnover of
around €1.6 billion. WEPA specializes in a wide range of products including
toilet paper, facial tissues, paper towels, and napkins, primarily marketed
under private labels for European food retailers. The company operates 22 paper
machines across 13 locations in six European countries, focusing on
sustainability and innovative production methods that utilize recycled fibers.
With a commitment to quality and environmental responsibility, WEPA aims to provide
effective hygiene solutions that contribute to the well-being of millions of
consumers throughout Europe.
The
company has grown to become the third largest producer of hygiene paper in
Europe, employing around 4,000 people and generating approximately €1.6 billion
in revenue. WEPA specializes in a wide range of products, including toilet
paper, facial tissues, paper towels, and napkins, primarily marketed as
private-label products for European food retailers. With 22 paper machines
operating across 13 locations in six European countries, WEPA emphasizes
sustainability by focusing on the production of hygiene paper from recycled
fibers. The company is committed to providing innovative and environmentally
friendly solutions that contribute to the well-being of consumers while
maintaining high standards of quality and performance in its product range.
10.
Kruger Inc.
Founding Year
|
1904
|
Headquarters
|
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
|
Website
|
https://www.kruger.com/
|
Kruger
Inc. is a Canadian private company founded in 1904, specializing in the
manufacturing of a diverse range of products, including publication papers,
tissue products, lumber, and renewable energy solutions. Headquartered in
Montréal, Québec, Kruger has established itself as a leader in the pulp and
paper industry while also expanding into sectors such as green energy and
recycling. The company operates multiple facilities across Canada and the
United States, employing approximately 6,000 people. Kruger is committed to
sustainability and innovation, focusing on transforming renewable resources
into high-quality essentials for everyday life. Its well-known brands include
Cashmere, Scotties, and Purex in the tissue segment, reflecting its dedication
to quality and customer satisfaction.
Kruger
Inc. has an extensive tissue paper portfolio that addresses the needs of both
residential and commercial markets. The company produces premium toilet paper
under well-known brands such as Cashmere and Purex, which are celebrated for
their softness, strength, and high quality. These products are available in
various sizes, ranging from standard rolls to jumbo packs, and include
eco-friendly options made from 100% recycled materials. Kruger also
manufactures soft and gentle facial tissues under the Cashmere and Purex
brands, offering choices suitable for everyday use, including fragrance-free
and skin-sensitive varieties. The company’s paper towels are designed for
maximum absorbency and durability, catering to both home cleaning and
professional environments, with the Cashmere brand particularly recognized for
its quality. Additionally, Kruger provides a variety of napkins and other paper
products tailored for the food service and hospitality industries, focusing on
functionality and environmental sustainability. In the Away-from-Home (AfH)
sector, Kruger offers bulk tissue products such as jumbo rolls and paper towel
dispensers aimed at institutional customers like schools, offices, and hospitals.
According to
TechSci Research report “Organic Tissue Paper Market – Global
Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Type
(Bamboo Pulp, Recycled Pulp, Straw Pulp, Mix Wood Pulp, Others), By
Distribution Channel (Offline, Online), By Region, By Competition, 2018-2028”
The Global Organic Tissue Paper Market has valued at USD 35.25 Million in 2022
and is anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR
of 4.7% through 2028.
Market Leaders and
Their Impact
- Essity Aktiebolag – With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and digital
transformation, Essity stands out for its broad product range and commitment to
improving hygiene and health standards globally. It also has a strong presence
in both consumer and professional hygiene markets. This makes it a strong
contender for "better" if sustainability and innovation are key
criteria.
- Procter & Gamble (P&G) – Known for its global reach and
well-established brands like Charmin and Bounty, P&G excels in consumer
brand recognition and premium product offerings. Its continuous innovation,
particularly in tissue paper products with features like lotion-infused
tissues, sets it apart in terms of market-leading comfort and convenience.
- Asia Pulp & Paper (APP) – APP has a massive global footprint
and is one of the largest players in the industry. Its emphasis on
sustainability with initiatives like the Sustainability Roadmap Vision 2030
shows a significant commitment to environmental responsibility. However, it
might not have as wide a range of high-end products compared to P&G or
Essity.
- Georgia-Pacific LLC – With a diverse portfolio and a focus on sustainability,
Georgia-Pacific is a major player, particularly in the U.S. It offers products
that cater to both residential and commercial needs, making it versatile in
serving a broad market. Its focus on sustainability also positions it as a key
competitor.
- Sofidel Group
– Sofidel emphasizes sustainability and has a strong presence in Europe. Its
dedication to eco-friendly practices and high-quality products like Regina and
Papernet make it a strong competitor in terms of environmental consciousness
and product reliability.