Polymer Group Inc. (PGI) has announced long-term strategic growth plans to invest in new state-of-the-art spunmelt manufacturing operations in South America and China to solidify the company’s leadership position in these high-growth markets:

• an immediate follow-up installation of a state-of-the art, custom-designed spunmelt machine and a pilot line at its current facility in Suzhou, China, expected to result in commercially available material in mid-2012;
• a greenfield installation in Southern China by late 2012 with multi-line expansion capability;
• a greenfield installation in Central Brazil by early 2013. Site selection for this facility is currently underway.

Longer-term investment plans include a third spunmelt line at its plant in Cali, Colombia. PGI’s new capacity will employ industry-leading equipment and technologies, combined with proprietary technological developments, to deliver differentiated materials to customers for use in applications such as baby diapers, adult incontinence, and medical gowns and drapes.

Source: Polymer Group Inc.