Costco fans in frenzy after ‘legendary’ product set to be discontinued for good – but a rival has stepped up it’s game
A BELOVED household cleaning product is likely to be discontinued, and fans are already searching for alternatives.
Shoppers are urged to stock up on the Costco product now while supplies last.
Kirkland Signature Ultra Clean HE Liquid Laundry Detergent is a popular choice for Costco members looking for an effective and cost-efficient detergent.
But the popular cleaning solution may not last on store shelves for long.
According to an announcement, Henkel - the company that manufactures Kirkland's laundry detergent - is divesting its Retailer Brands business in North America.
The German chemical and consumer goods company signed an agreement in 2022 to sell its North American Retailer Brands business to an affiliate of First Quality Enterprises, LLC.
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First Quality manufactures products for adult incontinence, feminine hygiene, baby care, and other household essentials.
Its portfolio of brands includes Prevail, Cuties, Plenty, Panda, and Incognito.
Henkel's Retailer Brands business, which also manufactures Persil laundry detergent, reported annual sales of over $540 million.
A NEW DIRECTION
Henkel CEO Carsten Knobel suggested that the company is strategically reshaping its portfolio to align with its long-term growth objectives.
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"Shaping a winning portfolio is a key element of our strategic agenda for purposeful growth," said Knobel.
"Our active portfolio management, either through acquisitions or divestments, is an important driver in making our business successful in the future."
Knobel went on to explain that selling off this part of the company signals a shift toward a more streamlined and focused business model.
"The divestment of our Retailer Brands business in North America marks the final step of our portfolio optimization measures which we announced in 2022," said Knobel.
"We are now focusing with a clear growth mindset on our branded business with technology-driven innovations offering more value for consumers."
ONLINE REACTIONS
Costco fans on social media were shocked to learn that the popular product may no longer be available.
In a video posted to TikTok, laundry enthusiast Zach Pozniak, who goes by the username jeeves_ny on the social media platform, theorized about the possibility that Kirkland's Ultra Clean detergent may disappear from store shelves.
"Kirkland is a great detergent that I recommend because it cleans really well and it's really well priced," he said.
"But unfortunately, I'm not sure how long this fairytale is going to last."
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Pozniak went on to speculate that Kirkland would have to find a new manufacturer for their detergent.
"So if you're a Kirkland fan, I'd recommend stocking up now before they change it," he said.