UK | Arbex, a new global leader in tissue and hygiene, has commenced operations as an independent business and unveiled details of its brand, leadership team, and company structure.
Announced in June 2025 as a joint venture between Suzano, the world’s largest pulp supplier, and Kimberly-Clark Corporation, a global leader in consumer goods and personal care, the new business will manufacture, market and distribute consumer and professional products across more than 70 markets on five continents.
Arbex has assumed ownership of assets previously run by Kimberly-Clark’s International Family Care & Professional (IFP) business unit, which includes 22 manufacturing sites in 14 countries, and a portfolio of more than 40 regional brands, including Andrex, Hakle, and Scottex.
The company also holds a long-term license to use Kimberly-Clark’s global brands, including Kleenex, Cottonelle, Scott, WypAll, Viva, and Kimberly-Clark Professional.
Ehab Abou-Oaf, previously President of Kimberly-Clark’s IFP business, has transitioned directly into the Chief Executive Officer role at Arbex. He will be based in London, alongside the majority of the global leadership team.
“This new company brings together a distinguished heritage, a portfolio of trusted brands, and a compelling vision for the future. Our parent companies have given us a sturdy foundation and a leading market position,” said Abou-Oaf, CEO.
“In an increasingly dynamic and evolving global landscape, Arbex is embarking on a new journey from a position of strength, and we believe we can shape the future of the tissue and hygiene sector.”
He added that the immediate priority was to ensure a smooth, seamless transition for colleagues, customers, and consumers worldwide. The team will work hard to grow the business, continue to earn the trust of hundreds of millions of households worldwide who use its products every day, and remain committed to delivering quality, sustainability, and value.
Luís Bueno, previously Executive Vice President of Suzano’s consumer goods business, becomes Chief Operating Officer, and Oscar Mousinho, a Kimberly-Clark veteran who most recently served as Global CFO of the Pet Nutrition business at Mars, becomes the incoming Chief Financial Officer. Walter Schalka, who spent over a decade as CEO of Suzano before stepping down in 2024, will chair Arbex’s Board of Directors.
Bueno highlighted that Arbex has brought together world-class talent with brands that already hold significant market share in over 70 countries.
“From day one, we will be a successful global business, providing an exciting launchpad for accelerated growth and an opportunity to build on momentum,” said Bueno.
“We are combining the best of Suzano’s industrial and operational expertise with Kimberly-Clark’s formidable international marketing and brand capabilities, uniting these through shared values of innovation and sustainability.”
With a pure-play focus on tissue and hygiene products, Bueno believes that Arbex has commercial, technical, and innovation capabilities that can deliver top-line and bottom-line improvements, helping thje business become the undisputed global leader in the sector.
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