The history of Tork – A proud history of innovation
Ever since the Tork brand was established in 1968, we’ve been at the forefront of innovations. Today we offer systems such as the Tork Coreless Toilet Paper, which cuts packaging waste by 98%, and the Tork Xpressnap®, which reduces napkin consumption by at least 25%. In many markets, we also offer high-tech solutions such as Tork Vision Cleaning, formerly known as Tork EasyCube®, the world’s leading data-driven cleaning solution, and even assist our partners in recycling and circularity through the closed-loop recycling initiative called Tork PaperCircle®.
From global leader to market shaper
As an established global brand, we continue to strengthen our offer with unique innovations and step up our contribution to a sustainable society. Below you will find a selection of launches and activities throughout our history.
2018
In 2018 we celebrated our 50th anniversary! In close partnership with our customers, we’ve grown into a global leader in professional hygiene. Now we’re ready to shape the future of professional hygiene.
2017
Launch of Tork PeakServe®. The first major innovation in the hand-drying market for decades enables a better washroom flow for high-traffic venues.
Learn more about Tork PeakServe
Launch of Tork PaperCircle®. The world’s first recycling service for used paper hand towels.
2014
Launch of Tork EasyCube®. Connected dispensers let cleaners and facility managers know what’s needed when and where, changing the logic behind cleaning.
2010
Launch of Tork Performance dispenser line. The first designed dispenser range for paper wipes and cleaning cloths, helping workers maintain a professional and organised shop floor.
2009
Launch of Tork Easy Handling®. The ergonomic packaging system simplifies opening, transportation and disposal, and sets a new industry standard.
A global offer for every segment
We set higher standards for our dispensers by adding new functionalities, as we continue to grow in global markets. This is the decade we truly become a global leader.
2007
Launch of Tork Performance dispenser line. The first designed dispenser range for paper wipes and cleaning cloths, helping workers maintain a professional and organised shop floor.
2003
Launch of Tork Xpressnap® system in North America. It changes the game for conventional dispensing napkins, guaranteeing usage reduction by 25%.
2002
Launch of QuickDry. With TAD (Through Air Drying) customers can dry their hands even more quickly with a softer product.
Building a leading brand
We build on our leading brand status by expanding our offer and adding innovations that set a new standard for professional hygiene.
1995
Mölnlycke acquires PWA and with it comes four brands: Apura, Hotel Exclusive, MAP and Amandi. We decide to prioritise Tork as the leading professional hygiene brand.
1993
Introduction of the metal dispenser line designed to meet the needs of the most demanding environments.
1992
Tork is one of the first tissue manufacturers to start using Life Cycle Assessment in the R&D process.
1995
Launch of the Box 90 dispenser line, designed by famous automobile designer, Giorgetto Giugiaro.
Systems that make a difference
With new solutions, we enter new arenas and new markets around the world.
1987
With new solutions, we enter new arenas and new markets around the world.
1986
Mölnlycke buys the Edet Bruk mill and starts using recycled paper for disposable products for the first time in professional hygiene.
1980
Tork enters the US market and chooses Swedish heavyweight boxer Ingemar ‘Ingo’ Johansson to star in a campaign to create brand awareness.
1980s
Launch of the Box 80 dispenser line. A complete range of dispensers in different colour schemes is a first in the market. The dispenser is made of translucent plastic, helping customers refill when needed.
1979
Tork enters the washroom arena with a complete soap system: the S-Box dispenser and a range of soaps for different needs, such as ‘extra mild’, ‘heavy duty’ and ‘hair & body’.
A history of innovation
The story of the Tork brand starts in 1968 with the creation of the ‘All-Tork’ wipe. ‘Torka’ means ‘to dry’ or ‘to wipe’ in Swedish.
1975
The SCA group acquires Mölnlycke but keeps the Mölnlycke name and starts to cooperate on production techniques, R&D and fibre sourcing.
1973
Launch of the M-Box dispenser based on the coreless centrefeed system. It would become the most-used dispenser in professional hygiene for decades.
1968
All-Tork wipe is launched as the first disposable wipe designed to replace rags. This is the start of our journey of innovations that will set new standards in the professional hygiene market again and again.
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