Essity announced a factory expansion project in Jarinu, a city in the metropolitan region of Jundiaí (interior of São Paulo), Brazil, with an investment of over R$100 million. This action reinforces Essity’s long-term strategic vision in Brazil and the ambition to become the fastest-growing company in the sector in the Americas. Since arriving in the country in 2011, Essity has recorded sustainable growth in Brazil and managed to triple the size of its business in the last five years, with a commitment to generating well-being through its broad portfolio of solutions.

The unit is responsible for the production process of the adult urinary incontinence brand Tena, and will double production capacity.

The company’s objective is to expand its portfolio to meet the growing demands of the market in Brazil. One of the highlights of the initiative is that 70% of the components used to make products come from local suppliers, which reduces dependence on imports and stimulates economic rates in the surrounding area.

Essity was considered one of the 100 most sustainable companies in the world, according to Corporate Knights, and its sustainability strategy is based on providing well-being for people and the planet . The new machinery available at the unit will double the production capacity of disposable underwear for adult urinary incontinence – with minimal environmental impact, thanks to cutting-edge technology with high energy efficiency.

“The expansion of the plant in Jarinu demonstrates our dedication to the sustainable growth and development of the company in Brazil. The category of items aimed at people with involuntary loss of urine has seen annual growth of 15% in recent years, due to the aging of the population,”​ ​says André Aguiar, director of the Consumer Goods unit at Essity Brasil.

“We managed to triple the size of our business over the last five years. In terms of products for adult urinary incontinence, growth was five times in the same period,” he adds. “This expansion reinforces our position as global leaders in the hygiene and health market, in addition to strengthening our commitment to breaking down barriers to guarantee the population’s quality of life.”

For Victor Hernádez, VP of Sales and Marketing LATAM South at Essity, the expansion illustrates the confidence that the company has in Brazil. “We are committed to the continued development of the country. The expansion in Jarinu reinforces our conviction in the Brazilian market and in Essity’s capacity for innovation to meet the constantly evolving needs of consumers.”