Aging Population Drives Surge in Adult Diaper Demand
By The Nexus Gazette.
15th July , 2024.
As Japan’s population ages and birth rates decline, a notable shift is occurring in the market for hygiene products. Once primarily associated with infants, diapers are now an essential item for many adults. The increasing demand for adult diapers, often referred to as “paper pants,” highlights significant demographic changes and economic trends in Japan.
Aging Population: Japan faces a demographic challenge with a rapidly aging population. Projections indicate that by 2070, four out of every ten people in Japan will be aged 65 or older . As the elderly population grows, so does the need for reliable and comfortable adult diapers.
Switching Focus: Diaper manufacturers are adapting to this demographic shift. Leading companies like Daio Paper and Oji Holdings have redirected their focus from baby diapers to adult ones. Remarkably, revenue from adult diaper sales has already surpassed that from baby diapers .
Key Differences: Adult diapers cater to discerning customers who rely on them in various situations. Unlike baby diapers, adult diapers must be discreet, comfortable, and functional. Features such as a tight fit around the legs and high absorbency ensure worry-free use, making them indispensable for many elderly individuals.
Over the next five years, Japan’s adult diaper market is expected to grow by 16%, reaching an estimated 98.9 billion yen (approximately $612 million). In contrast, the baby diaper market is projected to contract by 8% . This stark difference underscores the shifting focus of the hygiene product industry in Japan.
Globally, the adult diaper market is projected to reach nearly $15.5 billion by 2026 . Japan plays a significant role in this market, accounting for over 12% of the total. The rising demand for adult diapers is not just a local trend but a global phenomenon, driven by aging populations in many countries.
In this evolving landscape, adult diapers are not just a necessity—they represent a crucial economic shift driven by demographics. As companies invest in research and innovation, the quality and functionality of these “paper pants” continue to improve, further driving market growth. The economic impact is profound, with the adult diaper market becoming a significant contributor to Japan’s economy.
Japan’s growing adult diaper market exemplifies how demographic changes can reshape industries and economies. The increasing demand for adult diapers, driven by an aging population, is transforming not only the hygiene product industry but also Japan’s economic landscape. As companies continue to innovate and adapt to these changes, the market for adult diapers will likely see sustained growth and development.
Resources:
1.https://www.fastcompany.com/91155303/japan-diaper-makers-adults-market-revenue-births-fall
2.https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/how-diapers-are-changing-japans-economy/story
3.https://www.everplans.com/articles/japan-is-now-spending-more-on-diapers-for-adults-than-for-babies
5.https://www.bbc.com/news/business-68672186