At Ontex, sustainability and safety guide every step of our product development. That is why we invest in obtaining independent ecolabels. They provide trusted, third-party confirmation that our products meet strict environmental, health, and social standards, giving consumers reassurance. For our retail and healthcare partners, ecolabels offer a credible way to showcase and fulfill their own sustainability commitments.
The role of ecolabels in consumer trust and market access
Ecolabels don’t just sit quietly on the pack, they influence behavior. Research shows that ecolabels strongly influence purchasing decisions[1]. They help consumers make quicker, confident choices in crowded aisles and even justify paying a little extra for products they trust.
For Ontex, ecolabels are a strategic asset in how we support our retail partners and healthcare customers,” Lilian Girlea, Sr VP Category & Growth Europe, confirms. “Certified products not only meet market access requirements, but also help our customers strengthen their brand reputation, build consumer trust, and drive long-term loyalty. We collaborate closely to ensure every product aligns with the standards that matter most to their business and their audience.”
Certification in action: meeting high standards across our portfolio
“Behind each certification lies a complex, company-wide effort,” says Sophia Chen, Group Ecolabel Specialist at Ontex. “Raw materials are screened, production processes validated, packaging reviewed, and external audits passed. Certification demonstrates our commitment and shows that trust is earned through action, allowing us to confidently offer certified products to consumers.”
Depending on the label, the full procedure can take between two and six months. Some, like Asthma Allergy Denmark, require full disclosure of every ingredient and chemical used, one of the most scientifically strict processes in the world. Others, like the Nordic Swan, update their criteria every few years, forcing companies to raise the bar again and again. For Ontex, these challenges are opportunities to future-proof our products and stay ahead of regulations.
That is why, across our portfolio, Ontex complies with over 20 different certifications, trademarks, and claims, each reflecting both our commitment and our role in supporting our customers’ sustainability goals. Beyond the examples above, these includelike FSC (responsible forestry), OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 (tested for harmful substances), the EU Ecolabel (environmental excellence), Blue Angel (the German ecolabel related to harmful substances, sustainable material and environmental impact).
How ecolabels drive both strategy and competitive advantage
Ecolabels have become a competitive advantage for Ontex, encouraging cleaner, simpler product designs and strengthening our position as a trusted partner for customers.
At the same time, they are a key part of our wider sustainability strategy. They help us embed scalable sustainability practices into every product, safeguard health and safety, and maintain strong ethical standards and transparency along the value chain. Beyond these direct impacts, ecolabels also meet rising expectations from consumers, retailer customers, investors and regulators alike, ensuring our products align with both market demands and societal priorities.
[1] Nagar, Vivek & Verma, Priyanka. Assessing the Influence of Eco-Labelling on Consumer Purchasing Behavior: A Review. Revista Gestão & Tecnologia, vol. 25, no. 2 Special Edition, pp: 232-257 (April 2025).
