Nonwovens sector remains resilient

Consumer demand for hygiene-related nonwoven fibers remains high, despite economic woes worldwide, making nonwovens manufacturers an attractive target for global acquisitions and joint ventures, reports John R. Starr Inc., a Naples, Fla., management consultant firm. John R. Starr’s recent report, “Spunbonded and Spunmelt Nonwoven Polypropylene World Capacities,” provides an overview of the market from 2003 to 2010, with projections into 2014. Modern, low-cost and high-output lines will place pressure on existing producers with older equipment. Other factors influencing the sector include shifting raw material costs, supply/demand imbalances and the emergence of new global producers.