Wepa has acquired MPH1865 for an undisclosed amount, marking a significant corporate acquisition in the hygiene and paper products sector. This transaction sees Wepa taking full ownership of MPH1865, a family-owned French manufacturer specializing in wiping paper, non-woven products, and hand hygiene solutions, including soaps. The Ardèche-based company employs 250 people and reported a turnover of €130 million in 2022, producing 45,000 tons of wiping paper annually.
MPH1865 is recognized as the leading integrated French manufacturer of wiping products, known for its commitment to local production and environmental responsibility. The company operates 58,000 square meters of facilities across four sites, featuring 12 state-of-the-art transformation lines. Notably, MPH1865 made a €30 million investment in 2012 to establish a cellulose wadding paper mill, the sole French investment in this sector in two decades. Its product range includes eco-labelled pure cellulose wadding wiping products and FSC and PEFC certified hand towels, alongside a comprehensive offering of non-woven wiping products and hand hygiene soaps manufactured from production to packaging. The company boasts a carbon index for wiping paper manufacturing 30% below the European market average.
This acquisition is strategically significant for Wepa, enabling it to strengthen its presence in the French market and expand its product portfolio. The integration of MPH1865's advanced manufacturing capabilities, particularly its specialized cellulose wadding production and expertise in hand hygiene solutions, offers clear synergies. Wepa gains access to MPH1865's strong local production model and its established reputation for high-quality, eco-labelled products, aligning with growing market demand for sustainable and locally sourced goods. MPH1865's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2050 further complements industry trends towards environmental stewardship.
The combined entity is expected to leverage MPH1865's integrated production and environmental leadership to enhance its competitive position. This acquisition will allow for an expanded range of hygiene and wiping products, reinforcing a focus on innovation, sustainability, and efficient local supply chains.