Blog-Why UK Brands Still Import Bamboo Toilet Paper – Despite Local Manufacturing (3)

Why UK Brands Still Import Bamboo Toilet Paper – Despite Local Manufacturing

While the UK produces most of its own toilet paper, many local brands still rely on imported bamboo toilet tissue. Why? Because bamboo pulp is not manufactured in the UK — and overseas suppliers offer better pricing, customization, and eco-certifications.

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Does the UK manufacture its own toilet paper, or is most of it imported?”

Yes, the UK does manufacture its own toilet roll, but imports still play a critical role, especially for eco-friendly alternatives like bamboo toilet paper.

When UK buyers research toilet paper supply options, one question often comes up:

“Does the UK manufacture its own toilet paper, or is most of it imported?”

As a bamboo pulp toilet paper exporter based in China, we’ve worked with many UK clients — from wholesalers to private label brands. And here’s what we’ve learned: Yes, the UK does produce its own toilet roll, but imports still play a critical role.


Yes, the UK Manufactures Toilet Paper — But Not All Types

The UK has well-established domestic production. Brands like Andrex, Cushelle, and Velvet are manufactured in the UK by companies like Kimberly-Clark and Essity.

Local factories supply mainstream toilet tissue for supermarkets and retailers. According to industry data, over 80% of toilet paper sold in the UK is domestically produced.


So Why Do UK Companies Still Import Toilet Paper?

Despite a strong domestic industry, many UK businesses still rely on imports — especially for eco-friendly alternatives such as bamboo toilet paper. Here’s why:

  • 🇨🇳 Bamboo pulp is not produced in the UK
  • 💰 Overseas factories offer better pricing for bulk and OEM
  • 🧩 More customization options (roll size, embossing, packaging)


As a manufacturer, we provide:

  • Private label bamboo toilet paper
  • FSC-certified, plastic-free packaging
  • Flexible MOQ and container shipping

Our UK clients include importers, eco product brands, and hotels. Most prefer:

  • Soft, lint-free texture
  • Embossed patterns
  • Neutral or kraft-style packaging for retail or B2B resale

Who Are the Current Bamboo Toilet Paper Brands in the UK?

While bamboo toilet paper is still a niche segment in the UK, several eco-conscious brands have entered the market, including:

  • Who Gives A Crap
  • The Cheeky Panda
  • Bazoo
  • Bumboo

These brands typically focus on:

  • Plastic-free, sustainable packaging
  • DTC (direct-to-consumer) sales online
  • Placement in organic and eco-friendly retailers, such as Planet Organic and Whole Foods

Most UK bamboo toilet paper brands rely on overseas manufacturing and imported bamboo pulp, especially from Asia. As a result, private label opportunities remain open for UK-based distributors and retailers looking to launch their own sustainable toilet paper line.

We support those brands with:

  • Custom packaging and embossing
  • FSC-certified bamboo pulp
  • Competitive OEM pricing for UK clients

Exporting to the UK: What We’ve Seen

From our experience with UK buyers:

  • Typical orders are 1–2 containers/month
  • Most clients request samples before production
  • Sea freight delivery takes 30–45 days, depending on port and logistics

We assist with:

  • Custom labeling and design
  • Export documentation
  • Compliance with UK import standards

Certifications Matter: SMETA & Ethical Sourcing for UK Retailers

If you aim to sell through UK retailers or upscale supermarkets, product certifications aren’t optional — they’re essential.

We support compliance with:

  • FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)
  • BPI (Compostability Certification)
  • SMETA 4-Pillar Social Audit (upon request)

SMETA (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit) is increasingly required by UK-based chain stores, especially those with strong CSR policies. It ensures responsible sourcing across:

  • Labour rights
  • Health and safety
  • Environmental protection
  • Business ethics

Our factory can provide SMETA reports for partners targeting large retailers or global retail groups.


Conclusion: UK Brands Still Import Bamboo Toilet Paper for Good Reasons

Yes, the UK does manufacture toilet roll — but bamboo-based, eco-friendly toilet paper still depends on imports, particularly from Asia.

If you’re a UK-based wholesaler, distributor, or private label brand looking to expand into sustainable tissue products, we’re here to support you with:

  • Samples
  • Custom packaging
  • Reliable factory supply

Get in Touch with a Bamboo Toilet Paper Supplier

We offer:

  • OEM & ODM services
  • Private label solutions
  • Global shipping and export support

Contact us for pricing, free samples, and lead time estimates.

Looking for eco-friendly bamboo tissue paper?

💬 Let us know your sourcing needs — we’re here to help.

Custom Branding | Bulk Pricing | Fast Samples

  1. Trusted by 180+ Brands in 50+ Countries
  2. 30,000㎡ Factory | FSC & TÜV Certified
  3. Custom Packaging | Sustainable Bamboo Pulp
  4. Fast Production & Global Shipping

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