Finland-based Ahlstrom Corp. — a manufacturer of high-performance nonwovens and specialty papers
used in such applications as filters, wipes, flooring, labels and tapes — has commenced production
at a new facility in India. The plant — a member of Ahlstrom’s Advanced Nonwovens business area,
and the company’s first plant in India — will manufacture medical nonwovens fabrics for markets in
India and elsewhere in Asia. The facility will focus on fabrics for protective single-use
applications such as medical gowns and surgical drapes.
Ahlstrom reports the plant cost approximately 42 million euros and at first will employ 70
associates.
“Ahlstrom has a strong footprint in Europe and the Americas and is starting to establish a
solid manufacturing platform in Asia,” said Jan Lång, president and CEO, Ahlstrom. “This plant,
with its state-of-the-art technology, competent personnel and an optimal location in the Special
Economic Zone and in the vicinity of one of Asia’s biggest ports, will have a key role in our
growth strategy in India and Asia. As India is among the world’s fastest growing economies today
and the healthcare industry is growing at an annual rate of over 20 percent, the market for
disposable hygiene products is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.”
June 16, 2010