Scrub Daddy to expand Hungarian operations with new plant in Mártély

U.S.-based cleaning products manufacturer Scrub Daddy is expanding its operations in Hungary with a new investment at its existing site in Mártély, near Szeged, the Hungarian Investment Promotion Agency said.

The company, known internationally for its yellow, smiley-face cleaning sponge, will develop a global manufacturing base at the Mártély facility of Rosmarin Zrt., a Hungarian producer of environmentally conscious household cleaning products that Scrub Daddy acquired in 2023. The acquisition marked the company’s entry into manufacturing operations in Hungary.

As part of the expansion, Scrub Daddy will build a production hall of more than 1,000 square meters, where automated manufacturing lines will be installed. The development also includes warehouse facilities and office space.

The project is valued at €3.8 million and is being implemented with support from the Hungarian Investment Promotion Agency. Once operational, the expanded facility is expected to supply a range of Scrub Daddy products to more than 40 countries. Serial production is scheduled to begin in spring 2026.

The project is being implemented with support from the Hungarian Investment Promotion Agency. Scrub Daddy has committed to employing nearly 140 people at the Mártély site through at least 2030, and the company is planning further expansion. According to HIPA, locations in the United States and Mexico were also considered for the project.

Hungary’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó announced the investment on Dec. 17, 2025, in New York, as part of a package of three new U.S. investments coming to Hungary. He said the Scrub Daddy facility in Mártély will serve export markets in more than 40 countries.

Scrub Daddy first gained international attention in 2012 after appearing on a U.S. television show focused on startup investments. The company manufactures household cleaning tools and products and positions itself among environmentally conscious players in the sector, including by avoiding the use of chlorine. Operations at the Mártély site are supported by a small-scale solar power plant.

Scrub Daddy has developed more than 40 products, ranging from scouring pads to stain-removal powders, which are sold on five continents through partnerships with retail chains.

Featured image for editorial use only. Szilvia Molnar / Szegedify