Bullish growth seem for global baby diapers market

THE global baby diapers market is projected to hit $59.4 billion by 2020, according to the “Global Baby Diapers Market (Product Types and geography) - Size, Share, Global Trends, Company Profiles, Demand, Insights, Analysis, Research, Report, Opportunities, Segmentation and Forecast, 2013–2020" report by Allied Market Research.

A growing range of ergonomic shapes and sizes and unique features such as ultra-absorbency will boost the disposable diapers segment, which accounted for about 66% of the overall market in 2013. The super-absorbent variety will dominate this sector through 2020. 

The biodegradable line will be a high-growth segment, with the category forecast to post a 10% CAGR from 2013 to 2020, noted the report from Allied Market Research.

“Cloth diapers” are seen as another key growth area, thanks to their environmentally friendly and re-usability features. The line will expand substantially during the forecast period compared with other segments to become the third-largest segment in the market. 

Huge opportunities in APAC

Leading players in the industry will pursue aggressive expansion programs and advanced marketing strategies to boost suppliers' business. In terms of regions, the Asia-Pacific market will expand on the back of greater purchasing power, growing awareness, and improved supply-side infrastructure in rural areas.

Many international companies are setting their sights on China and India, which are the most populous countries with high birth rates. Local players in these countries are leveraging government support and environmental policies to boost their competitiveness.

In developed countries such as the US and Canada, many companies are turning to nonrenewable sources to produce disposable diapers. More stringent environmental regulations are prompting a growing number of companies to switch to cloth and biodegradable types. Prefold cloth diapers are also expected to enjoy rising demand.

A comprehensive product line strengthens the lead of P&G and Kimberly Clark in the baby diapers market. Companies such as SCA Hygiene and Unicharm are introducing products with unique features targeted at meeting the design and dryness requirements of consumers. 

Other companies are focusing on inorganic growth strategies such as acquisition and collaborations. Domtar has recently acquired AHP to boost its product portfolio. Some firms join diaper banks to expand their user base. This year, major brands such as Huggies and Pampers donated 26,000 and 40,000 diapers to the North Calorina Diaper Bank, respectively, in a bid to create awareness.