The Tissue World Conference and Exhibition officially opened its doors today in Düsseldorf, bringing together leading voices from the global tissue industry. Moderated by industry expert Jonathan Roberts, the opening conference sessions set the tone for three days of high-level discussion, networking, and business development.

Luigi Lazzareschi, CEO of Sofidel, shared insights into his group’s successful expansion into the U.S. market, highlighting the importance of local production and sustainability in building long-term growth abroad. Esa Kaikkonen, CEO of Mëtsa Board, emphasized as well the need for producting as close to the market as possible, and mentioned that there is potential  for consolidation within the fragmented European tissue sector to strengthen competitiveness and resilience. Iurii Golovchenko, CEO of Kyiv Cardboard and Paper, delivered a compelling address on the challenges of maintaining investment and operational stability in the context of geopolitical uncertainty and economic disruption.

Alongside the conference, the exhibition floor welcomed over 150 companies from across the tissue value chain, showcasing innovations in machinery, raw materials, sustainability solutions, and converting technologies.

The event runs through April 10 and continues to serve as a key meeting point for suppliers, converters, and decision-makers in the global tissue business.