John R. Starr, Inc has recently published a report on the world outlook for hygiene absorbent products and the key raw materials of nonwovens, fluff pulp, airlaid cores, superabsorbents and hygiene films. For many years, John R. Starr, Inc. has prepared in-depth reports analyzing the markets for absorbent products in key countries/regions throughout the world and the important materials used in them. The last update was released in August 2003. This study details the prospects for absorbent products in the key global markets of North America, Western Europe, the Pacific Rim, Central and South America, the Middle East, Central and Eastern Europe, China, India, Africa and the rest of Central Asia. The report contains unit volume market estimates for 2003 and 2004 and projections for 2009 for 45 individual countries and all geographic regions. The 2003 global and regional market share positions of the leading absorbent products competitors are portrayed. The study includes estimates and forecasts of the current and expected future consumption of key raw materials used in absorbent products (cover stock, superabsorbents, fluff pulp, airlaid cores and hygiene film).

The global market for absorbent products, including disposable diapers, training pants, feminine hygiene and adult incontinence products, exceeded 319 billion units in 2004. The largest markets for these products continue to be in North America, Western Europe and Japan. The developing markets in Central and South America, the Pacific Rim, Central Europe, the Middle East, China and India provide significant market penetration and volume growth opportunities for absorbent product market participants and their suppliers. The study assesses the impacts of economic trends on the five-year market outlooks in each major geographic region. Demographic factors, such as declining birth rates and increases in elderly populations, continue to impact the size of the potential markets for hygiene absorbent products.

To obtain a detailed prospectus and subscription order form for this study, contact:John R. Starr, Inc., 5150 North Tamiami Trail, Newgate Tower, Suite 202, Naples, FL 32104; Telephone: 239-430-1983; Fax: 239-430-1989; E-mail: [email protected].