INDA, the Association of the Nonwovens Fabrics Industry, has published the second edition of the annual North American Nonwovens Supply Report for its members. The report provides key metrics of capacity, production and operating rates for the total North American nonwovens industry by nonwoven process. The 45-page report offers 12 tables and 25 figures.
 
“This new report is the benchmark for North American capacity, production and supply information. It brings forth the clearest view available of the all-important supply/demand balance in the major nonwoven process categories; an essential element for our members’ strategic planning and business decision making,” said Dave Rousse, President, INDA.
 
The report — and the INDA Quarterly Market Pulse and INDA Price Trends Summary — are provided to the 300-plus INDA member companies and associates as part of their membership.
 
Findings include:
·      From 1990 to 2014, North American nonwovens capacity has increased an average of 5.5% per year, outpacing U.S. real GDP, which grew at 2.5 percent per year during the same period. During this time the industry has more than quadrupled in size, adding 1.95 million tons of capacity.
·      In 2014, North America’s nonwoven capacity increased to 2.71 million tons, (1.2% annual growth compared to the previous year’s growth of 1.5%).
·      Imports and exports are an important consideration in supply. The U.S., which accounts for 91% of North American capacity — is a net exporterin the Americas and net importer across the Atlantic and Pacific. Contrary to industry assumptions, imports from across the Atlantic and Pacific into the U.S. are not substantial, accounting for less than 4% of the U.S. nonwoven capacity.

“It is INDA’s objective to continue to improve the quality of data and industry information. One way we support this is by providing for the common use of nonwoven industry terminology and categorization,” says Brad Kalil, Director of Market Research and Statistics, INDA.