Kimberly-Clark to Sell Hakle Mill in Niederbipp, Switzerland

Kimberly-Clark is set to part with its Hakle tissue mill in Niederbipp, Switzerland. A spokesperson for the group confirmed press reports saying that the facility is up for sale.

“At Kimberly-Clark we strive continuously for a more efficient manufacturing operation while providing our customers and consumers with the leading brands and high-quality products they love. Following a strategic review, we are currently in negotiations to sell our Niederbipp mill in Switzerland,” the spokesperson told PPI Europe.

According to the company, the move is part of a wider optimization program for its operations in western Europe, including an ongoing investment of $38 million in equipment, technology and facilities at Rouen, France and Romagnano, Italy. “These mills will continue their development as ‘centers of excellence’ and hubs for innovation and specialization in tissue products. Our Kimberly-Clark Professional business is not affected,” the spokesperson said.

According to media reports, the production of Hakle toilet paper will be relocated from Niederbipp to Romagnano, and the site in Switzerland, which currently employs some 265 people, could be closed by the end of April next year if no buyer is found. However, Kimberly-Clark did not confirm the information. “We take our responsibility as an employer very seriously and our focus at this time is on our employees in Niederbipp and on making sure negotiations deliver a successful outcome. We are unable to comment further while negotiations are in progress,” the spokesperson said.

Back to Tissue360 Newsletter