INDA, the Association of the Nonwovens Fabrics Industry, has announced the publication of its first edition of the annual North American Nonwovens Supply Report for its members.

“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.

Key findings

The report details the key metrics of capacity, production and operating rates for the North American nonwovens industry in total and by the nonwoven process. Examples of key findings of the report include:

• Over the last 23 years (1990 to 2013), North American nonwovens capacity has increased an average of 6.9% per year, more than outpacing US real GDP, which grew at 2.5% per year over the same period. During this time the industry has more than quadrupled in size, adding 1.84 million tonnes.
• In 2013, North America’s nonwoven capacity increased to 2.35 million tonnes (1.7% 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% of North American capacity.

“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 categorisation,” commented Brad Kalil, Director of Market Research and Statistics, INDA.

INDA

The report is complimentary to the 300-plus INDA member companies and associates as part of their membership.

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.

INDA educational courses, market data, test methods, consultancy and issue advocacy help members succeed by providing them the information they need to better plan and execute their business strategies.

www.inda.org