INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, has announced the release of a new industry report called North American Nonwovens Industry Outlook 2013-2018.

This report, INDA’s ninth analysis of this market, is said to provide the most comprehensive and accurate view available of the North American nonwovens industry. 

Detailed demand and supply data (capacity, production, and trade flows) are presented for the North American industry for 2008, 2013, together with a forecast for 2018.

Industry fundamentals

“This new report goes beyond the information provided in the previous editions.  It defines and clarifies end use market segments and production processes to provide greater insight into industry fundamentals,” explained Brad Kalil, INDA’s Director of Market Research & Statistics.

“In 2013, the North American market consumed 1.9 million tonnes of nonwoven material; this is forecast to reach 2.3 million tonnes in 2018, a 4.2% annual growth rate. The report contains additional nonwoven consumption measurements of square metres and roll good value, in addition to number of individual wipes consumed and their value to the end user.”

“The report also provides an analysis of economic and demographic trends and their impact on demand within the North American nonwovens industry. The production forecast for 2018 provides a credible basis for decision makers to work with as they plan their futures in North American nonwovens.”

Demand model

The report uses a demand model built up with the individual end use markets to arrive at a total North American demand, the association reports. The end use markets are classified as disposable — those items designed to be replaced — and durables — those items designed to have an average useful life of at least three years.

The six disposable end use markets, comprised of 104 categories, are: absorbent hygiene, wipes filtration, medical/surgical, protective apparel and other disposables. The durable end use markets, comprised of 55 categories are: geosynthetics, home and office furnishings, transportation, building construction, apparel and other durables.

It is based on primary and secondary research, economic data, and extensive interviews with key professionals in the various markets.  The supply model used is based on industry participant surveys and discussions with both INDA members and nonmembers, and estimates for non-responding companies.  Capacity numbers are based on nameplate capacities.

Credible, actionable data

“This report, long in the making due to its rigor, incorporates INDA’s new taxonomy for the multiple markets and subcategories making up our continuously evolving industry, commented Dave Rousse, INDA President.

“The actual data through 2013 and forecast for 2018 fulfils our mission to provide credible, actionable data to the industry as a basis for important market and investment decisions.  No forward looking company interested in any of the North American nonwovens market subcategories should go without this important new report.”

www.inda.org