Arbex Begins Operations as a Global Leader in Tissue and Hygiene
Arbex has officially launched as an independent tissue and hygiene company, marking a significant milestone following the completion of the $3.4 billion joint venture between Suzano and Kimberly-Clark Corporation. Headquartered in the Netherlands with a major operational office in London, the company begins its journey as one of the world’s largest tissue and hygiene businesses, serving customers across more than 70 markets on five continents.
The joint venture, first announced in June 2025, combines Suzano’s expertise as the world’s largest pulp producer with Kimberly-Clark’s global leadership in consumer and professional hygiene products. Arbex will manufacture, market, and distribute a wide range of tissue and hygiene solutions for both consumer and professional markets worldwide.
As part of the transition, Arbex has taken ownership of the former International Family Care & Professional (IFP) business previously operated by Kimberly-Clark. The business includes 22 manufacturing facilities located across 14 countries and a portfolio of more than 40 well-established regional brands, including Andrex®, Hakle®, and Scottex®. In addition, Arbex has secured a long-term licensing agreement to continue using globally recognized Kimberly-Clark brands such as Kleenex®, Cottonelle®, Scott®, WypAll®, Viva®, and Kimberly-Clark Professional.
The company has also announced its executive leadership team. Ehab Abou-Oaf, formerly President of Kimberly-Clark’s IFP business, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer and will lead the company from London. Luís Renato Bueno, previously Executive Vice President of Suzano’s consumer goods division, assumes the role of Chief Operating Officer, while Oscar Mousinho joins as Chief Financial Officer after serving as Global CFO of Mars’ Pet Nutrition business. Walter Schalka, Suzano’s former CEO, will serve as Chairman of Arbex’s Board of Directors.
Speaking on the company’s launch, CEO Ehab Abou-Oaf said Arbex combines a strong legacy, trusted brands, and a clear vision for the future. He emphasized that the support of Suzano and Kimberly-Clark provides a solid foundation for growth and positions the company to play a leading role in shaping the future of the global tissue and hygiene industry. He also noted that ensuring a seamless transition for employees, customers, and consumers remains the company’s immediate priority while maintaining its commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer value.
Chief Operating Officer Luís Renato Bueno highlighted that Arbex enters the market with an established global presence and a portfolio of leading brands already trusted in more than 70 countries. He said the company will leverage Suzano’s industrial expertise together with Kimberly-Clark’s international brand strength to accelerate growth. By focusing exclusively on tissue and hygiene products, Arbex aims to strengthen innovation, improve operational performance, and reinforce its position as a leading global player in the sector.
