Japan-based Asahi Kasei Fibers Corp. has announced plans to close its polyester fiber and
monofilament plants by the end of September 2009. Difficulty reaching profitability for these
plants resulting from a variety of factors, including increases in the price of petroleum-based
feedstock and a decline in global demand in recent years, were cited as reasons for the closures.
The company intends to transfer all affected employees to other positions within the Asahi Kasei
Group.
Japan-based Teijin Fibers Ltd. will assume production of Asahi Kasei’s specialty polyester
yarns, and the production and sale of its monofilaments will transfer to Uniplas Corp., Japan. The
changes mark Asahi Kasei’s exit from the monofilaments business.
Going forward, the company will focus management resources on its core businesses – Roica™
elastic polyurethane filament, Bemberg™ cupro regenerated cellulose fiber, nonwovens and Leona™
nylon 6,6. Asahi Kasei also will focus on the development of knit fabrics for activewear end-uses
such as swimwear and athletic wear.
Teijin will supply Asahi Kasei with polyester fiber, such as Technofine™, for its knit
fabrics on an original equipment manufacturer basis. In April 2010, Asahi Kasei intends to cease
production of its Impact™ and other woven fabrics for activewear and 100-percent polyester lining
fabrics. Teijin will assume the production and sale of these products. In addition, Asahi Kasei’s
sales activities for other polyester yarns and products not to be transferred to Teijin will cease
by the end of March 2010.
April/May/June 2009