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North American nonwovens capacity quadruples in 23 years

02 Sep '14

2 min read

Between 1990 and 2013 or over 23 years, North American nonwovens capacity increased at an average of 6.9 percent per year, more than outpacing real GDP clocked by USA, which grew at 2.5 percent per year over the same period, says a latest report from INDA.

Over this 23 year period, the industry has more than quadrupled in size, adding 1.84 million tonnes, in capacity, the report adds. In 2013 alone, North America’s nonwoven capacity increased to 2.35 million tonnes, up 1.7 percent above the previous year.

Contrary to industry assumptions, the drylaid process, or carded, which includes the needlepunch and hydroentangling bonding processes, is the largest web forming process category, accounting for 45 percent of North American capacity, the report notes.

“This new report is the benchmark for North American capacity and production information. It brings forth the clearest view available of the all-important supply/demand balance in the major nonwoven process categories; an essential element for our members’ strategic planning and business decision making,” said Dave Rousse, President, INDA.

“It is INDA’s objective to continue to improve the quality of data and industry information. One way we support this is by providing for the common use of industry terminology and categorization,” said Brad Kalil, Director of Market Research and Statistics at INDA.

INDA serves hundreds of member companies in the nonwovens/engineered fabrics industry in global commerce. Since 1968, INDA events have helped members connect, learn, innovate and develop their businesses.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

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