Canadian Kleenex Tissues Disappearing from Store Shelves: A Blow to the Tissue Industry in Canada

Kleenex Tissues Disappearing from Canadian Shelves: A Loss of a Household Staple

by | Published on August 25, 2023

In a surprising turn of events, one of the most recognizable tissue brands, Kleenex, will soon no longer be available in Canadian stores. The announcement, made by Kimberly-Clark, the parent company of Kleenex, has left many Canadians nostalgic for a brand that has become synonymous with the product itself. This decision, attributed to supply challenges and unique complexities in the tissue business, raises concerns not only about the future availability of Kleenex tissues in Canada but also about the wider implications for the tissue industry as a whole.

A Long-standing Relationship with Canadians

Kleenex has enjoyed a long history in Canada, with many Canadians referring to any facial tissue as a “Kleenex.” The brand’s loyal customer base has made it a household name, making the news of its departure from Canadian shelves all the more impactful. In a statement on the company’s website, Kimberly-Clark expressed gratitude for the loyalty of Canadian consumers and acknowledged the difficulty in making the decision to end sales in the country.

The absence of Kleenex tissues will undoubtedly be felt by Canadians. This gentle, versatile product has been a go-to for colds, allergies, and everyday needs for decades. Its removal from the market represents the end of an era and will leave a significant void on store shelves.

A Shift in Focus: Challenges and Complexities

Kimberly-Clark explained that the decision to discontinue sales of Kleenex tissues in Canada was driven by supply challenges and the “unique complexities” of the tissue business. While the company did not elaborate on these specific challenges, it is clear that the decision was not made lightly. By removing Kleenex from the Canadian market, Kimberly-Clark aims to redirect its focus toward other brands.

Interestingly, this move comes at a time when the tissue industry has seen significant growth globally. The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened awareness around hygiene practices, leading to an increased demand for tissue products. However, the challenges faced by Kimberly-Clark suggest that the tissue industry in Canada may not be immune to its own set of difficulties.

Implications for the Tissue Industry

The departure of Kleenex from Canadian shelves raises questions about the stability and resilience of the tissue industry. While other Kimberly-Clark brands, including Contonelle, U by Kotex, Poise, Depend, Huggies, Pull-Ups, and Goodnites, will still be available in Canada, the absence of Kleenex may have ripple effects on consumer behavior and preferences.

Consumers may be forced to consider alternatives to Kleenex, leading to increased competition among tissue brands. This shift in the market dynamics could impact the supply chain, pricing, and availability of tissue products. Additionally, the departure of a long-established brand like Kleenex may create an opportunity for Canadian tissue manufacturers to fill the void and establish themselves as leaders in the industry.

Advice for Canadian Consumers

In light of this development, Canadian consumers should be prepared to explore alternative tissue brands and adjust their preferences accordingly. While Kleenex will still be available in other countries, such as the United States, it is uncertain whether consumers will be able to import the product into Canada.

It is also recommended to stay informed about changes in the tissue industry and to support Canadian tissue manufacturers. By purchasing locally-produced tissue products, Canadians can contribute to the growth of domestic businesses and ensure a stable supply of tissues in the future.

While the loss of Kleenex in Canada may be disappointing, it presents an opportunity for Canadians to adapt and explore new options. As we bid farewell to a beloved household staple, we must remember that change is a constant in the ever-evolving world of consumer goods, and it is up to us to make the best of it.