PFNonwovens is expanding its operations in Cape Town, South Africa with a $40 million investment which will further develop its manufacturing facility andlead to the creation of up to 40 new jobs.

PFN established the South African site in 2017 with a $90 million investment. With this latest investment, PFN’s market leading position as the largest spunmelt producer in hygiene market in South Africa will be reinforced. As a result, the company will have the capacity to meet the growing local market needs for high value and speciality products with increasing levels of softness, comfort, and sustainability.

“We are the first company to invest in the latest Reicofil’s R5 machinery in South Africa, and this exciting expansion will not only localise manufacturing, it will also allow for more sustainable and flexible production which is required to meet the growing needs of both our global and local clients,” says Wilhelm Cronje, Director for PFN South Africa. The Western Cape is a natural choice to base the company’s African expansion, with a world class infrastructure and access to the rest of the continent. Mariann Forsström, PFN’s newly appointed EMEA Commercial Director, commented that “this investment aligns with our global strategy to grow our hygiene and medical markets on the African continent as well as providing a base for exports to neighbouring regions.”

The new capacity is planned for the end of 2022. PFN continues to support the economy and welfare of the local community. The latest initiative has been welcomed by Alderman James Vos, the mayoral committee member for investment, who stated “the new investment will provide much needed economic stimulus to the area and will create exciting new employment opportunities for the local population. PFN have invested heavily in building the skills and capabilities of the local workforce, providing international training and development, and has secured the future careers for many.” 

PFNonwovens is currently adding two Reicofil 5 lines at its North American Center of Excellence in Hazleton, PA and has a semi-commerical R5 in operation in the Czech Republic.