Unicharm and Toyota Tsusho aim to combine their respective strengths – Unicharm's non-woven fabric and absorbent processing and molding technologies, and Toyota Tsusho's local network and experience – to deliver new value in regions where the use of sanitary products is not widespread.

The penetration rate of sanitary napkins in African markets is low, particularly in Kenya, where it currently stands at approximately 30%.

To address this, Unicharm and CFAO Kenya have been importing and selling “SOFY Deep Absorb,” a premium sanitary napkin produced at Unicharm’s Egypt plant for the Kenyan market since August 2023. However, there are still challenges in balancing quality and price, and many women are not able to use sanitary napkins in daily life.

In response to this, Unicharm and Toyota Tsusho have decided to locally produce “SOFY Long Lasting” sanitary napkins, which are of reliable quality and affordable price, and CFAO Kenya will commence the sales of this product. By establishing a local production and sales system, the two companies will promote the creation of an environment where more women can access sanitary products.

(1) Product Development and Production Management

Unicharm will conduct product development and production management of "SOFY Long Lasting" sanitary napkins, offering reliable quality at an affordable price, based on the feedback from customers in Kenya. Local companies will handle the entrusted production.

(2) Local Sales System

CFAO Kenya will be responsible for the sales of “SOFY Long Lasting” and will aim to expand sales by maximizing the utilization of local distribution networks while working toward expanding the product lineup and developing the business in neighboring countries.

<Takahisa Takahara, President & CEO of Unicharm Corporation>

Together with Toyota Tsusho, Unicharm aims to realize a society where all people can live with peace of mind through the widespread use of sanitary products in the African market. Through this initiative, we will establish a sustainable business model rooted in the region by combining Toyota Tsusho’s extensive network with our technological capabilities and contribute to enhancing the quality of life (QOL) of local consumers.

In addition, the project that we have been promoting since December 2023 aims to provide high-quality products at reasonable prices and deliver sanitary products to all those in need.

By selecting Kenya for our first initiative in Africa and establishing a local production system, we will create an environment where many people can use our products with peace of mind.

<Ichiro Kashitani, Member of the Board, President & CEO, Toyota Tsusho>

Under the philosophy of “WITH AFRICA FOR AFRICA,” Toyota Tsusho aims to contribute to the development of the African region in all 54 African countries by focusing on the four business domains of “Mobility,” “Infrastructure,” “Healthcare,” and “Consumers”.

We are very pleased to be working with Unicharm to provide reliable, high-quality sanitary products at reasonable prices that meet local needs in Africa, starting with Kenya. By establishing a local production and sales system, we will support the improvement of sanitary environments and the social advancement of women, thereby contributing to the revitalization of local economies.

<Related Sites>

Unicharm Corporation Website　　　https://www.unicharm.co.jp/en/home.html

Toyota Tsusho Website   　　　　　　https://www.toyota-tsusho.com/english/