Fire at Essity Finland warehouse disrupts Tena product supply across the country

The adequacy of adult diapers has been closely monitored in various regions across Finland following a warehouse fire at Essity Finland in Raisio last week. This facility stored Tena-branded incontinence products destined for welfare areas throughout the country, leading to anticipated delivery disruptions.

In Southern Karelia, the situation regarding Tena products appeared critical last Friday. Different units assessed their stock levels and redistributed supplies accordingly. “Now we are starting to have a plan in place. The worst of the crisis has been overcome,” said Hanna Rönkkönen, head of elderly care services.

Other welfare regions, such as Varsinais-Suomi, have also reviewed their supplies. They currently possess about a month’s worth of stock without any significant shortages on the horizon. Similarly, Siun sote in North Karelia reported a stable supply situation, with smooth cooperation with Essity Finland despite the challenging circumstances.

In Kymenlaakso, the availability of diaper supplies depends on the timely arrival of orders made to the equipment distribution. The welfare area has decided to provide slightly smaller Tena shipments to clients and also offer alternative products to ensure all necessary items are available.

According to Rönkkönen, various units order diapers in different cycles, typically in three-month batches. For instance, the service home Ortamonpuisto in Lappeenranta recently received a Tena shipment and can supply other units facing low inventory. Rönkkönen reassured that existing supplies should last for several weeks and that residents need not rush to stores for additional products.

Essity Finland’s CEO, Pete Lauhaluoma, stated that only the diaper stock affected by the fire was stored at the damaged warehouse. The company is now operating from a new storage facility, which is already functional. While they have experienced significant losses, daily shipments from the factory to Finland continue, and partial deliveries have resumed; however, availability and delivery times may vary significantly. The impact of the fire will likely result in delays in the coming weeks.