Top Suppliers and Manufacturers of Cleaning Agents & Detergents in Europe 🇪🇺

Cleaning agents and detergents form the backbone of both household and industrial cleanliness across Europe. With stringent quality standards and a growing consciousness towards sustainability, the demand for effective yet environmentally friendly cleaning products has surged. Europe houses some of the largest and most reputable suppliers who cater to this demand with a broad spectrum of products encompassing everything from general-purpose cleaners to specialized industrial detergents. These suppliers have established a robust supply chain, ensuring consistent availability across various regions, all while adhering to the highest regulatory compliances.

Henkel

Year Founded
1876
NA
Number of Employees
47750
NA
Revenue
21514
NA

Henkel is a global leader in the fields of adhesive technologies and consumer brands. Founded in 1876, the company has over 145 years of experience and operates worldwide, with its headquarters located in Düsseldorf, Germany. Henkel is recognized as the world’s leading producer of adhesives, sealants, and functional coatings, catering to both industrial customers and consumers.

Henkel’s top products in the consumer brands sector include renowned names like Persil laundry detergents, Schwarzkopf hair care products, and Dial and Fa beauty care products. These items are well-regarded for their quality and innovation, making Henkel a trusted name in households across the globe.

The company's adhesive technologies are highly respected, with top products like Loctite adhesives widely recognized for their reliability in industrial applications. Henkel also leads in the field of 3D printing materials, offering a diverse range of high-performance photopolymer materials through its LOCTITE brand.

Henkel’s export markets are extensive, reaching customers in over 120 countries. It maintains a strong presence in North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific regions. Henkel's revenue for 2023 stands at approximately €21.514 billion, and the company employs around 47,750 people, the majority of whom work outside Germany.

Throughout its history, Henkel has consistently focused on innovation and sustainability. The company is committed to creating solutions that meet current demands while anticipating future needs. This dedication to sustainability is evident in Henkel's emphasis on eco-friendly practices and responsible business operations.

In both industrial and consumer markets, Henkel’s strong brands, innovative technologies, and commitment to sustainability ensure its continued success and leadership in the global marketplace.

Procter & Gamble

Year Founded
1837
NA
Number of Employees
101000
NA
Revenue
80000000000
NA

Procter & Gamble (P&G) is a leading multinational consumer goods corporation renowned for its cleaning agents and detergents, such as the popular brand Tide. Founded on October 31, 1837, by William Procter and James Gamble, the company has its headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio. Over the years, P&G has grown into a household name, specializing in a wide array of consumer goods that enhance the daily lives of people globally.

P&G's product portfolio includes iconic brands like Pampers, Gillette, Head & Shoulders, Crest, and Olay. The company's specialization spans across multiple segments, including personal care, health care, fabric care, home care, and baby care. Among these, their cleaning agents and detergents are vital offerings that have set industry standards for effectiveness and reliability.

The company operates in over 180 countries, thanks to its robust export markets and extensive supply chain. P&G's commitment to innovation and sustainability is reflected in its products and operations, continuously aiming to meet evolving consumer needs while making a positive impact on the environment and society.

As a major player in the consumer goods sector, P&G is dedicated to research and development to maintain its leadership position. Their focus on quality and customer satisfaction has been a cornerstone of their success, earning them a loyal consumer base worldwide.

Procter & Gamble's influence extends beyond just product availability. They are actively involved in various community initiatives, demonstrating a strong sense of social responsibility. As of 2023, the company employs approximately 101,000 people and reported a revenue of $80 billion, underscoring its substantial role in the global market.

Unilever

Year Founded
1929
NA
Number of Employees
149000
NA
Revenue
64200000000
NA

Unilever is a renowned British-Dutch multinational consumer goods company. Established in 1929, it has a rich history beginning with the merger of a Dutch margarine producer and a British soapmaker. Headquartered in London, Unilever has grown into a global leader in fast-moving consumer goods, specializing in food, beverages, cleaning agents, beauty products, and personal care items.

Unilever's extensive portfolio includes top brands like Hellmann's, Dove, Lipton, and Knorr. Among its diverse product range, the company is particularly notable for its cleaning agents and detergents, making it a key player in this sector. Products under this category cater to the daily needs of consumers, ensuring hygiene and cleanliness in households around the world.

Unilever operates in more than 190 countries, with a significant presence in both developed and emerging markets. It leverages regional insights to tailor its offerings to meet local consumer preferences. Notably, it has a strong foothold in regions like North America, Asia, and Africa, effectively responding to varied market dynamics.

The company's commitment to sustainability is evident in its ambitious agenda to achieve deforestation-free supply chains and significantly reduce emissions throughout its value chain. This focus on sustainability extends to its innovation strategies, where cutting-edge technology and AI play crucial roles in developing environmentally friendly products and enhancing operational efficiency.

With a workforce of approximately 149,000 employees as of 2023, Unilever continues to drive inclusivity and economic growth while addressing pressing societal challenges. The company's financial performance is robust, with a reported revenue of around $64.2 billion in 2023, underscoring its strong market position and continuous growth.

Reckitt Benckiser Group

Year Founded
1823
NA
Number of Employees
40000
NA
Revenue
14607
NA

Reckitt Benckiser Group, commonly known as Reckitt, is a leading global producer in the health, hygiene, and nutrition sectors. With a profound commitment to innovation and consumer trust, Reckitt has a diversified portfolio of products designed to enhance the quality of life. Their well-known brands, such as Dettol, Lysol, Vanish, and Finish, play crucial roles in cleaning agents and detergents, making them essential items in households globally.

Founded in 1823, the company has a rich history characterized by continuous growth and numerous mergers and acquisitions, notably the 1999 merger between Reckitt & Colman and Benckiser. Headquartered in Slough, United Kingdom, Reckitt operates across various international markets, ensuring their products are accessible to a wide audience.

Reckitt's top products cater to a multitude of consumer needs. The Hygiene segment includes products like Dettol, Lysol, Harpic, and Vanish, which are integral in eliminating dirt, germs, and pests. The Health segment offers solutions such as Nurofen for pain relief and Durex for personal care, while the Nutrition segment includes brands like Enfamil and Airborne.

The company is deeply invested in sustainability, integrating responsible practices in its operations. Their continuous efforts in research and development aim to improve product efficacy and broaden their range of health and hygiene solutions. Reckitt's extensive export markets spread across Europe, Asia, and North America, signifying their global footprint and dedication to promoting health and hygiene standards.

With approximately 40,000 employees, Reckitt Benckiser Group remains focused on its mission to deliver high-quality, safe, and effective products to consumers, thereby nurturing and protecting lives worldwide.

BASF SE

Year Founded
1865
NA
Number of Employees
112000
NA
Revenue
68900000000
NA

BASF SE is a leading global chemical company headquartered in Ludwigshafen, Germany. Established in 1865, BASF has grown to become the largest chemical producer in the world. The company boasts a diverse portfolio, including chemicals, plastics, performance products, coatings, and agricultural solutions, addressing the needs of various industries such as agriculture, automotive, construction, healthcare, and consumer goods.

One of BASF's notable areas of specialization is in the production of cleaning agents and detergents, catering to both industrial and consumer markets. Their expertise in this sector is reflected in their innovative chemical formulations designed for superior cleaning performance and environmental sustainability. BASF's commitment to sustainability extends to other areas, ensuring that their products contribute to a circular economy.

BASF's global reach is extensive, with operations in over 80 countries and production sites across Europe, North America, South America, Asia, and Africa. This extensive export network allows BASF to serve a broad clientele and maintain a strong presence in diverse regional markets.

Throughout its history, BASF has been a pioneer in chemical innovation. The company developed the Haber-Bosch process in collaboration with Fritz Haber and Carl Bosch, significantly advancing chemical manufacturing. BASF also was instrumental in the formation of IG Farben in 1925, a major milestone in its corporate journey.

BASF continues to invest heavily in research and development, aiming to offer cutting-edge solutions and maintain its industry leadership. In 2023, BASF generated revenue of €68.9 billion and employed approximately 112,000 people. This impressive scale underscores its critical role in the global chemicals market and its ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainable practices.

Evonik Industries AG

Year Founded
2007
NA
Number of Employees
34000
NA
Revenue
19400
NA
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Evonik Industries AG is a leading global supplier in the specialty chemicals industry, known for its high-performance materials and innovative chemical solutions. Headquartered in Essen, Germany, Evonik excels in providing essential chemical components that enhance a multitude of applications. Among its diverse product offerings, Evonik’s contributions to cleaning agents and detergents stand out, making it a significant player in the cleaning and hygiene sector.

Founded in 2007, following the restructuring of RAG AG, Evonik has grown substantially to become the second-largest chemicals company in Germany. The company employs around 34,000 people and operates in over 100 countries, reflecting its extensive global presence.

Evonik’s product portfolio includes ultra-high purity colloidal silica, surfactants, specialty esters, and methacrylate chemistry, among others. These products play crucial roles in improving the performance and efficacy of cleaning agents and detergents used in various sectors, including household cleaning, industrial sanitation, and personal care.

The company is dedicated to sustainable practices and innovation, focusing on creating products that meet modern industry demands while minimizing environmental impact. It operates several research centers and production facilities worldwide, ensuring tailor-made solutions for clients in Europe, North America, and Asia.

With a 2023 revenue of $19.4 billion, Evonik's commitment to continuous innovation and customer-centric solutions solidifies its position as a trusted name in the specialty chemicals industry. This financial strength underlines the company's capability to maintain and grow its influence across various sectors, including the essential market of cleaning agents and detergents.

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Ecolab

Year Founded
1923
NA
Number of Employees
48000
NA
Revenue
14000000000
NA

Ecolab is a preeminent global leader in providing comprehensive cleaning agents and detergents, along with water, hygiene, and energy technologies and services. With a staunch commitment to sustainability, Ecolab helps industries optimize their operations, ranging from foodservice and healthcare to hospitality and industrial manufacturing, ensuring cleaner, safer, and healthier environments.

Specializing in sanitation products, water treatment solutions, and energy management services, Ecolab's offerings are designed to enhance efficiency, minimize waste, and promote sustainability. Their top products include disinfectants, sanitizers, and water management solutions, catering to the specific needs of diverse sectors.

Established in 1923, Ecolab has evolved from a modest detergent company into an international powerhouse. Headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, USA, Ecolab operates in over 170 countries, providing tailored solutions that adhere to local regulations and meet regional demands. Its reputation for innovation and excellence has solidified its position as a trusted partner in various industries.

The company reported an impressive revenue of $14 billion for 2022, reflecting its robust market presence and operational capacity. Ecolab employs approximately 48,000 dedicated professionals worldwide, all committed to fostering a culture of safety, sustainability, and corporate responsibility. This extensive workforce allows Ecolab to deliver exceptional service and support to its global clientele, ensuring high standards of cleanliness and safety.

Ecolab's dedication to innovation and customer success has made it an indispensable supplier in the cleaning agents and detergents industry, continually adapting to the evolving needs of its customers and the environment.

Aguas de Valencia

Year Founded
1890
NA
Number of Employees
2400
NA
Revenue
NA

Aguas de Valencia specializes in managing the integral water cycle, encompassing essential services such as water supply, sanitation, and treatment. The company is known for its extensive work in the construction industry, particularly in irrigation and hydraulic works, offering a wide range of solutions that promote environmental sustainability and effective water management.

Founded in 1890 under the name Sociedad de Aguas Potables y Mejoras de Valencia, Aguas de Valencia initially aimed to modernize the water supply infrastructure in the city of València. Over its more than 125-year history, it has grown to become a key player both nationally and internationally. Today, it manages the collection, treatment, and distribution of potable water in València and its metropolitan area, as well as administering the Metropolitan Water Supply System, which serves multiple municipalities utilizing the waters of the Júcar and Turia rivers.

Although specific export markets aren't detailed, Aguas de Valencia operates not only locally but also maintains a significant international presence, including regions like Doha, Qatar. This demonstrates their capability in handling large-scale projects and adapting to diverse environmental challenges.

The company employs between 201-500 people, reflecting a medium-sized enterprise engaged in significant operational management. Their commitment to innovation and infrastructure development positions them as a reliable partner for governments and organizations looking to enhance their water distribution systems. Despite a lack of specific data on their revenue, the company’s longevity and expansive operations indicate substantial financial stability and industry influence.

For those in the chemicals industry, particularly suppliers of cleaning agents and detergents, Aguas de Valencia’s role in the water treatment process is crucial. Effective water management is key to ensuring clean, safe water, which is fundamental for manufacturing and industrial cleaning processes.

SOPRONEM

Year Founded
NA
Number of Employees
NA
Revenue
NA

SOPRONEM is a key player in the Cleaning Agents and Detergents industry, specializing in the production of liquid detergents and household cleaners. With several decades of experience, SOPRONEM has built a reputation for excellence in quality, market responsiveness, and cost control, making it a trusted supplier for major European brands as well as private labels.

The company is proficient in offering tailored solutions ranging from simple contract filling to full-service production. This includes the development, manufacturing, and packaging of a wide range of cleaning products. SOPRONEM's capability to design and produce customized product ranges has made it a preferred choice among global brand owners and the European retail market.

Strategically located in Saint-Pierre-les-Nemours, France, the company benefits from logistical advantages that allow efficient distribution across Europe. This strategic position aids in meeting consumer demands with utmost flexibility and efficiency.

SOPRONEM's commitment to continuous innovation is evident through its dedicated research and development team. The company emphasizes product safety and rigorous quality assurance to ensure that all products meet the highest standards. This focus on innovation and quality control has solidified SOPRONEM's standing in the industry, especially in the highly competitive European market.

McBride

Year Founded
1927
NA
Number of Employees
3000
NA
Revenue
NA

McBride is a long-established and prominent supplier in the chemicals industry, notably specializing in household and personal care products, including cleaning agents and detergents. Founded in 1927, McBride has consistently delivered a wide array of cleaning solutions that cater to different consumer needs. Among their top products are surface cleaners, laundry detergents, and other personal care products, all of which are designed to meet high standards of quality and sustainability.

With a significant global presence, McBride has successfully penetrated export markets across Europe, Asia, and North America. This extensive reach is supported by a robust distribution network that ensures efficient delivery and high service levels to customers around the world. Their focus on private label products has allowed them to form strong partnerships with various retailers, customizing solutions to fit local market requirements and ensuring cost-effectiveness.

McBride takes pride in its innovation capabilities, continuously adapting to market trends and consumer demands through investments in cutting-edge technology and sustainable manufacturing practices. The company employs approximately 3,000 individuals worldwide, each contributing to their mission of delivering high-quality and sustainable cleaning solutions.

Located in the heart of the UK, McBride’s rich history and strategic growth through acquisitions reflect its ongoing commitment to innovation and market leadership. Their products are not only household staples but also exemplify the company’s dedication to promoting sustainable living through responsible manufacturing processes.

SC Johnson

Year Founded
1886
NA
Number of Employees
13000
NA
Revenue
11200000000
NA
SC Johnson is a renowned name in the consumer products industry, particularly known for its innovative and sustainable household cleaning products and consumer goods. Established in 1886 and headquartered in Racine, Wisconsin, USA, this family-owned company has made significant strides in the market over its long history. The company is celebrated for its comprehensive product portfolio, which includes iconic brands such as Windex, Pledge, Glade, Ziploc, Raid, and OFF!. These products are trusted by consumers worldwide for their effectiveness and reliability in cleaning, air care, pest control, and home storage solutions.

SC Johnson operates in over 70 countries, demonstrating a strong global presence and a robust exporting capability. This extensive reach ensures that households and businesses around the world have access to quality cleaning agents and detergents. The company's dedication to sustainability is evident in their initiatives to minimize plastic waste and promote environmental responsibility. For example, their Proline WAVEâ„¢ dispensers are crafted from 70% recovered coastal plastic to help reduce ocean waste.

SC Johnson is deeply committed to community engagement and corporate social responsibility, engaging in various initiatives such as pest prevention education in malaria-prone areas. The company also emphasizes research and development, which has led to the introduction of several groundbreaking products aimed at enhancing the user experience and improving health and hygiene standards in homes and workplaces.

As of 2023, SC Johnson reported a revenue of approximately US$ 11.2 billion and employs around 13,000 people globally. This significant financial performance highlights the company's strong foothold in the market and its ongoing success. Throughout its storied history, SC Johnson has continuously prioritized quality, innovation, and sustainability, making it a trusted and reputable supplier in the cleaning agents and detergents sector.

Essity

Year Founded
2017
NA
Number of Employees
48000
NA
Revenue
15500000000
NA

Essity is a preeminent global leader in hygiene and health products, driven by a mission to enhance well-being through innovative and sustainable solutions. Established in 2017 as a spin-off from SCA (Svenska Cellulosa Aktiebolaget), Essity has since become a formidable entity in its own right, leveraging over a century of expertise from its origins in hygiene and forest products.

Headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, Essity operates across more than 150 countries, establishing a significant international footprint. The company specializes in personal care, consumer tissue, and professional hygiene products. Leading brands in their portfolio include TENA for incontinence care, Libero for baby diapers, Libresse for feminine care, and Tork for professional hygiene solutions. Additionally, Essity offers a range of medical solutions under brands like Actimove and JOBST, and wound care products resulting from its acquisition of BSN Medical in 2016.

Essity's extensive export markets span Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East. The company's commitment to sustainability is reflected in its eco-friendly practices and products, designed to cater to diverse customer needs while minimizing environmental impact. Notably, Essity incorporates recycling and circular production processes to maintain its leadership in sustainable development.

With approximately 48,000 employees, Essity reported net sales of around $15.5 billion USD in 2022. The company's focus on innovation and corporate responsibility underscores its dedication to advancing health and hygiene for a better world. Through its diverse product offerings and unwavering commitment to global well-being, Essity continues to set standards in the hygiene and health industry.

Sofidel

Year Founded
1966
NA
Number of Employees
7000
NA
Revenue
3129000000
NA

Sofidel is a global leader in the tissue paper industry, specializing in the production of high-quality products such as toilet paper, kitchen towels, napkins, and other domestic and hygienic paper goods. Founded in 1966 in Italy, Sofidel has grown to become one of the world's foremost manufacturers in this sector.

Sofidel's commitment to innovation and sustainability is clearly reflected in its operations. The company employs advanced production techniques and energy-efficient technologies across its facilities. Notably, its 1.7 million square-foot manufacturing facility in Circleville, Ohio, incorporates a high-performance building envelope and a significant use of insulated metal panels.

With a strong emphasis on eco-friendly practices, Sofidel aims to achieve Net-Zero carbon emissions by 2050. This sustainability focus extends to all aspects of its business, from responsible sourcing of raw materials to highly efficient manufacturing processes.

Sofidel exports its products worldwide, including markets in Europe, North America, and Asia. It has a substantial presence in the United States with facilities in Wisconsin, Ohio, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Nevada, and Florida. Among its well-known brands are Regina, Softy, Nicky, and Papernet, which are widely recognized for their quality and reliability.

In 2023, Sofidel reported net sales of 3,129 million Euros, with a production capacity exceeding one million tonnes annually. The company employs over 7,000 individuals worldwide, supporting both retail and away-from-home (AFH) sectors.

The extensive reach and robust infrastructure of Sofidel make it a formidable player in the tissue market, continually innovating to meet the evolving needs of its customers while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.

Frosch

Year Founded
1986
NA
Number of Employees
NA
Revenue
455000000
NA

Frosch is a distinguished brand of cleaning and care agents produced by Werner & Mertz GmbH, headquartered in Mainz, Germany. Established in 1986, Frosch has been a pioneer in developing environmentally friendly cleaning solutions. They offer a wide array of over 80 products that include multi-purpose cleaners, scouring agents, glass cleaners, toilet cleaners, dishwashing liquids, and laundry detergents. Additionally, they provide hand soaps and air fresheners, all featuring a strong ecological focus.

Frosch was among the innovators of phosphate-free cleaning agents, emphasizing the use of natural ingredients to promote sustainability. Their commitment to the environment has garnered significant market share, especially notable during the 1990s. However, the brand faced a temporary decline in advertising but successfully regained its market leader status through strategic marketing investments.

In the mid-2000s, Frosch products became paramount to Werner & Mertz, contributing to approximately 80% of the company's revenues. Not only are Frosch products popular in the domestic market, but they also hold a substantial presence in export markets worldwide.

The production facilities of Frosch are certified under environmental management standards, underscoring their dedication to sustainable practices. The company collaborates with various organizations to enhance recycling efforts and continuously innovates their product formulations to increase sustainability.

Frosch’s eco-friendly cleaning solutions have left an indelible mark on the market, and their ongoing dedication to sustainable development and customer satisfaction solidifies their position as a key player in the cleaning agents and detergents industry.

Newell Brands

Year Founded
1903
NA
Number of Employees
24600
NA
Revenue
8130000000
NA

Newell Brands is a leading global consumer goods company known for its extensive and diverse portfolio of iconic brands catering to various consumer needs. Among these brands are Rubbermaid, Mr. Coffee, Calphalon, and Contigo. Founded in 1903, Newell Brands has a longstanding history of growth and innovation, evolving from a small manufacturer into a conglomerate recognized worldwide.

Newell Brands, headquartered at 6655 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta, GA, specializes in a wide range of products. These include home organization solutions, kitchen appliances, writing instruments, outdoor and recreational products, as well as critical cleaning agents and detergents that are essential in both consumer and commercial sectors.

The company’s commitment to quality and innovation has fostered a strong presence in several international markets. Newell Brands' top products include Rubbermaid storage solutions, Sharpie markers, and Coleman outdoor gear. Additionally, they offer commercial cleaning and maintenance solutions that are critical for hygiene and sanitation purposes, meeting the needs of various industries.

Driven by strategic mergers and acquisitions, Newell Brands has continually expanded its market reach, adapting to changing consumer demands. The company's export markets span across the globe, making its products accessible to a wide audience. With a significant revenue stream and an employee base of over 24,600 as of 2023, Newell Brands is a major player in the consumer goods industry.

Newell Brands remains dedicated to innovation, inclusion, and sustainability, ensuring their products not only meet but exceed consumer expectations. Their focus on responsible sourcing and product development underscores their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction in an ever-evolving marketplace.

Italbrand

Year Founded
2000
NA
Number of Employees
NA
Revenue
NA

Italbrand is a renowned supplier, specializing in a wide array of high-quality Italian products, with a noted emphasis on gourmet food items rather than chemicals or cleaning agents. Though there is no direct mention of involvement in the chemicals industry, Italbrand's comprehensive service offerings and quality-driven approach suggest a meticulous attention to detail that might be appealing to distributors or retailers of various product categories.

Italbrand stands out in the fashion industry, primarily operating in the fashion sector with a rich history spanning over thirty years. The company is distinguished by its commitment to quality and innovation, providing a full suite of services from initial sketches to industrial production, packaging, and shipping. Italbrand's portfolio includes tailor-made garments such as denim, hoodies, t-shirts, jackets, and sweatshirts, prominently made with 100% organic cotton under the 'Made in Italy' label.

In the realm of gourmet specialty foods, Italbrand offers a variety of top products, including bulk candy, seasonal foods, canned and jarred Mediterranean goods, and gourmet Italian groceries like pasta, sauces, and olive oils. These products serve both retail and foodservice markets, with a strong export focus to North America, Europe, and Asia, ensuring a global reach and broad customer base.

Strategically located in Villorba (TV) and operating from Italy, Italbrand leverages a network of selected suppliers and subcontractors to stay ahead in its sectors. This includes a specialization in sourcing and producing items that capture the essence of Mediterranean and Italian cuisine.

Italbrand continues to grow and adapt to changing consumer preferences while maintaining its core values of quality, authenticity, and customer satisfaction, making it a favored supplier in its niches.

Future Supply Dynamics

Looking ahead, the supply landscape for cleaning agents and detergents in Europe is poised for significant evolution. **Regulatory frameworks**, such as the European Union's REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation, continue to shape how products are formulated, compelling suppliers to innovate and pivot towards safer, more sustainable ingredients. Additionally, market factors including rising consumer awareness and technological advancements in raw materials are anticipated to influence supply dynamics. Suppliers that can adapt to these changes while maintaining product efficacy and environmental safety are likely to maintain a competitive edge in the evolving marketplace.

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