WEPA has acquired MPH1865, a prominent French manufacturer of wiping paper, non-woven products, and hand hygiene solutions, for an undisclosed amount. This corporate acquisition sees WEPA taking full ownership of the Ardèche-based company, which has established itself as a key player in the hygiene products sector. MPH1865, a family-owned enterprise, 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, specializing in eco-labeled pure cellulose wadding and FSC/PEFC certified hand towels. The company also manufactures a complete range of hand hygiene soaps and non-woven wiping products. Over the past two decades, MPH1865 has made significant investments in its French operations, including a €30 million cellulose wadding paper mill in 2012, the sole such investment in France in 20 years. Its facilities span 58,000 square meters across four sites, equipped with 12 advanced transformation lines.
The acquisition is strategically significant, allowing WEPA to expand its footprint and enhance its product portfolio within the European hygiene market. MPH1865's strong commitment to local production in France, coupled with its advanced technologies and focus on environmental sustainability, aligns with contemporary industry demands. The company boasts a carbon index for its wiping paper production that is 30% lower than the European market average, with a stated goal to further reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2050. These capabilities and environmental credentials are expected to contribute to the combined entity's market position.
The integration of MPH1865's specialized production capabilities and sustainable practices into WEPA is anticipated to create synergies in manufacturing efficiency, product innovation, and market reach. The combined entity is poised to strengthen its offering in the professional hygiene sector, leveraging MPH1865's expertise in eco-friendly and high-quality hand hygiene solutions and wiping products to meet evolving customer needs across Europe.