Group 1 - Essity has completed the acquisition of Edgewell Personal Care's feminine care business for USD 340 million (approximately SEK 3 billion) on a cash and debt-free basis, enhancing its focus on high-margin categories and market positions in the US [1][2] - The acquisition includes a diverse product portfolio of liners, pads, and tampons under well-known brands in North America, as well as a production facility in Dover, Delaware, which will be consolidated into Essity's accounts as of February 2, 2026 [2] - The CEO of Essity, Ulrika Kolsrud, expressed optimism about accelerating the growth of the acquired brands, reinforcing the company's personal care business in North America and its ambition to expand in high-yielding categories and key geographies [3] Group 2 - Essity is recognized as a fast-growing player in the feminine care category, with a strong portfolio of regional brands such as Libresse, Bodyform, Nana, Saba, Libra, Nosotras, Knix, and Modibodi, offering a wide range of products including pads, liners, tampons, intimate soaps, intimate wipes, leakproof apparel, and menstrual cups [4]

Core Insights - Essity has agreed to acquire Edgewell Personal Care's feminine care business for USD 340 million, enhancing its position in the North American hygiene market [1][3] - The acquisition includes well-known brands such as Carefree, Stayfree, and o.b., as well as global rights for Playtex and a production facility in Dover, Delaware [1][3] - The deal is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals [1] Financial Summary - The purchase price of USD 340 million represents an EBITDA multiple of approximately 12.1x based on pro-forma IFRS as of June 30, 2025, and 8.3x when including estimated run-rate synergies [1] - For the 12 months ending June 30, 2025, the acquired business reported net sales of USD 261 million and a segment operating profit of USD 17 million [1] Strategic Implications - This acquisition aligns with Essity's strategy to focus on high-margin categories and strengthen its market position in the US, the largest hygiene market globally [1] - Essity aims to leverage its established success in the feminine care sector to grow the acquired brands [1]