A brand new company was launched in February under the banner Nonwoven Network LLC. With headquarters in Naples, FL, the privately held venture is headed by three well-known industry executives—Don Bokshan, the former director of PGI’s automotive business, Stephen Foss, former owner of Foss Manufacturing, and Jean-Marie Turra, who previously served as head of marketing at PGI.

Putting an unusual spin on the traditional nonwovens supply structure, the “virtual” company works in partnership with a number of needlepunch manufacturers in the U.S. as well as certain nonwoven scrim producers in China and Europe to supply nonwoven acoustical products for automotive applications. End uses include trunk liners, well wheel liners, package trays, dash insulators and floors. The company purchases recycled fibers and commissions various equipment from its partners to produce an array of lightweight, cost-efficient products for OEMs. Additionally, Nonwoven Network handles all raw material selection, invoicing, shipping and communication with customers.

“Because we are not tied down to a brick and mortar facility, we avoid technological restrictions and have more flexibility to respond to customers’ specific requirements,” explained Don Bokshan, managing director. “The oldest line we are working with is five years old, so we are able to offer the most state-of-the-art technologies to our customers.” He added that the company is currently working on several programs that are expected to start up in June.