3M, parent company of Top 40 supplier 3M/Promotional Markets (asi/91240), announced Tuesday, Dec. 20, that it will stop manufacturing and using per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) chemicals across its product portfolio by the end of 2025.

3M says its decision to exit the PFAS business is based on “careful consideration and a thorough evaluation of the evolving external landscape, including multiple factors such as accelerating regulatory trends focused on reducing or eliminating the presence of PFAS in the environment and changing stakeholder expectations.”

Mike Roman, 3M CEO

Indeed, the announcement comes amid a flurry of state regulation and federal scrutiny of so-called “forever chemicals” and their manufacturers. California passed a law earlier this year prohibiting PFAS chemicals from being added to cosmetics, personal care products, textiles and clothing sold in the Golden State. A new Maine state law requires manufacturers to report the presence of intentionally added PFAS chemicals to products they seek to sell/distribute in the state. The state of California is currently suing 18 companies that make PFAS chemicals. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plans to propose the first federal drinking water limits on PFAS in the coming months, according to the Wall Street Journal, which some legal experts believe could prompt even more lawsuits against PFAS manufacturers.

“This is a moment that demands the kind of innovation 3M is known for,” said Mike Roman, chairman and CEO of 3M. “While PFAS can be safely made and used, we also see an opportunity to lead in a rapidly evolving external regulatory and business landscape to make the greatest impact for those we serve. This action is another example of how we are positioning 3M for continued sustainable growth by optimizing our portfolio, innovating for our customers and delivering long-term value for our shareholders.”

3M says it plans to discontinue manufacture of all fluoropolymers, fluorinated fluids and PFAS-based additive products by the end of 2025. It also plans to help with an orderly transition for customers. The company says it will fulfill current contractual obligations during the transition period.

The company will also discontinue use of PFAS across its product portfolio by the end of 2025, noting that it has already begun reducing their use through ongoing research and development.

PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down in the environment, are used in a spectrum of products, from firefighting foams to carpets, shampoo, mascara and some grease-resistant paper. They’re frequently used in durable water-repellent (DWR) coatings on various performance fabrics to give them water- and stain-resistant properties. PFAS chemicals can contaminate water sources and build up in fish and wildlife, and research has linked exposure to certain PFAS with various health problems, including kidney and testicular cancers, thyroid disease and high cholesterol, according to the EPA.

With 2021 North American promotional products revenue of $82.4 million, 3M/Promotional Markets ranks 17^th on Counselor’s most recent list of top suppliers in the industry.

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