Kimberly-Clark set to invest over USD 2B in its US operations

USA – Kimberly-Clark, an American multinational consumer goods and personal care corporation, has unveiled a USD 2 billion investment plan to expand U.S. manufacturing, marking its largest domestic expansion in over three decades.

This initiative aims to enhance manufacturing capacity, modernize supply chain infrastructure, and accelerate innovation, reinforcing the company’s commitment to long-term growth and operational resilience.

A significant portion of the investment, USD 800 million, will be allocated to the construction of a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Warren, Ohio, strategically positioned to serve the Northeast and Midwest regions. 

The facility will integrate advanced manufacturing technologies, enabling the development of next-generation consumer products while boosting production efficiency.

In addition, Kimberly-Clark will invest USD 200 million in expanding its Beech Island, South Carolina site, where a high-tech automated distribution centre will be established. 

This facility will leverage AI-powered logistics, robotics, and high-density automated storage, streamlining operations and optimizing supply chain efficiency.

Russ Torres, Group President, Kimberly-Clark North America, stated, “This landmark investment represents a strategic bet on the American consumer and our ability to drive innovation-led sustainable growth for Kimberly-Clark.” 

“It reflects the confidence we have in our long-term growth plans and complements a broad range of commercial and R&D investments we have been making throughout the business as part of our Powering Care transformation journey.”

The investment is expected to generate over 900 skilled jobs, particularly in industrial automation and advanced manufacturing, further strengthening the company’s workforce. Construction for both facilities is set to begin in May 2025, with completion anticipated within two to three years.

This expansion aligns with Kimberly-Clark’s Powering Care transformation strategy, which focuses on sustainable growth, innovation, and operational excellence. 

By modernising its infrastructure and embracing cutting-edge technology, the company aims to meet evolving consumer demands while reinforcing its position as a leader in the global market.

Recently, Kimberly-Clark revealed plans to transition its tissue manufacturing site in Koblenz, Germany, to 100% renewable energy by 2029. 

According to the company, this initiative is expected to cut carbon emissions by approximately 13,000 metric tonnes annually.

In collaboration with the German government, Kimberly-Clark is utilizing a Carbon Contract for Difference (CCFD) grant, alongside multi-country European virtual power purchase agreements, to drive its transition.

The company will electrify heating systems, replacing natural gas boilers and hood heaters with electric alternatives, achieving 99% energy efficiency and eliminating 13,000 metric tons of CO₂ emissions annually.

This move aligns with Kimberly-Clark’s broader decarbonization strategy, which aims to halve Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 2030.

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