Hygiene and Health Market

A growing global population and rising global average life expectancy are resulting in greater demand for hygiene and health products, solutions and services, thus offering growth opportunities for Essity. For example, incontinence and various chronic conditions, such as chronic wounds, are prevalent. In addition, the pressure on healthcare systems is increasing as well as the demand for new and effective solutions. Moreover, women’s health issues, such as menopause, are receiving increased attention

Generation Z (born 1997–2012) is becoming more influential and their disposable incomes are increasing. This group also places strong expectations on companies and brands in areas such as sustainability and equal opportunities in their purchasing and employment decisions. Essity is targeting all age groups to capture the increasing need for innovative solutions that cater to people at all stages of life.

There is an increased awareness of the importance of hygiene and health following the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes a widespread realization of the importance of preventive measures and self-care, including good hand hygiene and cleaning procedures both at home and in public spaces to avoid the spread of infections. At the same time, there is a growing threat from antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which according to the World Health Organization (WHO) represents a major threat to human health with significant global economic and security implications.

Demand for hygiene and health solutions is positively impacted by improved access to essential health and sanitation services in emerging markets, as well as increasing preventive expenditures in mature countries to avoid the spread of infections. Essity’s product portfolio contains hand hygiene and cleaning products, solutions and services as well as wound care products that effectively prevent and treat infections.

There is growing awareness among public and private stakeholders of environmental and social sustainability issues such as climate change, nature conservation, human rights and equality. Essity is committed to improving the well-being of people and societies by reducing its impact on the planet. Social and environmental sustainability is a strategic priority for Essity to ensure future growth and competitiveness, while reducing risks.

Essity’s products, solutions and services enable people all over the world to live more healthy and dignified lives. We conduct our business in a responsible manner and are reducing our environmental impact through climate and circularity actions and sustainable innovations, while respecting biodiversity and committing to reaching net zero emissions of greenhouse gases by 2050.