Nonwovens growth predicted

A new Freedonia Group industry study, World Nonwovens Industry, forecasts an increase of 6.9 percent annually in global sales of nonwoven fabrics, with personal hygiene products such as adult incontinence wear, feminine hygiene, diapers and training pants leading the way. The study provides forecasts for 2015 and 2020 by web formation process, market, application, world region and 19 key countries. Continued growth in global manufacturing and construction activity and gains in personal income will increase demand, especially in developing areas of the world. While more products will be sold, values will grow less rapidly because the average price of new generation nonwovens has decreased due to advances in technology. Spunmelt nonwovens offer the best growth prospects, according to the study, driven by greater use of disposable medical garments and textiles. China alone will account for just over half of additional global volume demand through 2015.