Ontex Group, headquartered in Aalst, Belgium, has opened a new facility in Stokesdale, Rockingham County, North Carolina.

The new plant currently employs almost 100 people and manufactures baby diapers for retailers and lifestyle brands. It complements the company’s plant in Tijuana, Mexico and will expand its production and workforce to also manufacture other product categories in the future.

“We are pleased to be expanding production within the United States to meet the growing demand for our essential hygiene products from millions of North Americans,” said CEO Esther Berrozpe. “This investment provides Ontex with both West and East Coast supply chains in a key market where we see significant opportunity to grow and develop our business.”

“When Ontex wanted to bring manufacturing that used to be done overseas back to America, they came here and hired North Carolina workers,” added North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper. “As we work to combat inflation, I applaud this investment in our state, which takes advantage of North Carolina’s prime location on the eastern seaboard and will help shorten shipping times and lower costs for consumers. This is yet another reason why North Carolina is a great place for businesses to grow and thrive.”

Nearly half of the US population lives within 650 miles of the new plant. Rockingham County’s strategic location, quality workforce, state and local incentives were key factors in the company’s decision to locate the new plant in Stokesdale. Ontex first invested in the county in 2020, when the group acquired the US feminine hygiene products business of Albaad.

www.ontex.com