Míriam Guasch, Essity: "Catalonia is a strategic hub that reinforces our growth across Europe"

Essity, the Swedish multinational and global leader in hygiene and health products, has expanded its Tarragona factory in Puigpelat with a €24 million investment to inaugurate a new production line for incontinence products. This investment is notable as it marks the facility in Catalonia as the first in Europe to produce a comprehensive range of Essity’s offerings, including tissue-based products, personal care items, and diapers.

Catalonia Trade & Investment supported this expansion through a €200,000 grant under its High Impact line, underscoring the region's commitment to fostering industry growth. We spoke with Míriam Guasch, Essity's Director of Operations in Catalonia, to discuss this new investment, its impact, and Essity’s future in Catalonia.

“In five years, we’ve invested more than €100 million to increase our production capacity while reducing our environmental footprint”

Míriam Guasch, Essity's Director of Operations in Catalonia

Share quote:

• X
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Whatsapp

Essity has made a significant investment in expanding its production capabilities in Catalonia. Could you tell us about the decision behind this €24 million investment?

Essity’s investment in the Tarragona facility is part of our ongoing strategy to enhance our capacity to address essential needs. This new incontinence product line is particularly strategic as it allows us to meet demand not only in Spain but across northern Europe as well. It reinforces our dedication to growth and innovation within the company.

What does this new production line mean for employment in the region?

The new line has created 20 new positions at Puigpelat, which adds to the 500 professionals we already employ here. Altogether, Essity employs over 750 people across Catalonia. Our commitment to job creation also includes partnerships with local universities and technical schools, where we work together to foster talent and provide training opportunities for engineering and technical positions.

How does this expansion align with Essity’s sustainability goals?

Sustainability is a core pillar of Essity’s operations. Over the past five years, we’ve invested more than €100 million to increase our production capacity while reducing our environmental footprint. This includes improvements in energy efficiency and significant reductions in CO₂ emissions. Each investment, including this latest one, reflects our responsibility to operate sustainably and efficiently.

In what ways does innovation drive Essity’s operations in Catalonia?

Innovation is vital to maintaining the high quality and efficiency of our products. It enables us to ensure that each item meets the rigorous standards our customers expect. Additionally, digitalization has been key; it allows us to monitor and optimize production processes in real-time, putting valuable data directly into the hands of our operators.

What advantages does Catalonia offer for Essity’s operations?

Catalonia is a strategic logistics hub with excellent connectivity to the rest of Spain and Europe. Our proximity to the Port of Tarragona and major highways enables efficient distribution across southern Europe. Catalonia’s infrastructure and the support we’ve received from Catalonia Trade & Investment have been instrumental in our success.

How has Catalonia Trade & Investment supported Essity’s growth in the region?

Catalonia Trade & Investment has provided invaluable support, especially with securing grants like the €200,000 subsidy for high-impact investments. Their guidance helps us navigate opportunities for expansion and enables us to strengthen our roots in the region.