AstenJohnson opens a state-of-the-art nonwovens plant in Waco, Texas

AstenJohnson’s decision to locate in Greater Waco represents a regional economic development collaboration between Waco, McLennan County, and the Waco Industrial Foundation. Waco and McLennan County strategically partnered to provide incentives supporting the project.  In addition, the Waco Industrial Foundation partnered with the project regarding the land necessary to sustain the AstenJohnson operation, the company said in a press release.

The plant will focus on nonwoven fabrics for growth markets including auto light-weighting and composite manufacturing. In addition to the latest needle-punch nonwoven technology in the world, the Waco plant will be clean, air-conditioned, and will have a strong focus on sustainable business practices. AstenJohnson is planning to begin operations in early 2023.

“We are excited to add a new AstenJohnson facility in Waco, Texas. The long-term prospects for our nonwovens business are excellent. Customer demand for our products has only been growing. This investment will allow us to satisfy the increasing demand and continue to offer more products and innovation. We are delighted to welcome future Waco associates to the AstenJohnson family,” Kevin Frank, CEO and president, said in a statement.

“On behalf of the McLennan County Commissioners Court, I extend our welcome to AstenJohnson.  We are confident the company will enjoy the relationships it creates with the numerous communities and residents across our county,” Scott Felton, McLennan county judge, said. 

“Waco is a unique location for AstenJohnson. It’s close to our customers, but more importantly, the spirit of innovation, integrity, inclusion, and teamwork is infused in the people of this region. These values are at the core of AstenJohnson and have made Waco feel like home as we begin our partnership. We’re here for the long haul and excited to offer stable career options to members of the community, along with competitive wages and a commitment to extensive training and development,” Neil Johnson, president, nonwovens, said.

“This facility will allow us to better serve both our existing and new customers for our Eagle Nonwovens and Foss Performance Materials business units.  Those customers in the automotive, aerospace, filtration, Cure in Place Pipe, and other technical industrial segments will be among those we plan to support from our new Texas site,” Per Jim Porterfield, VP of sales and marketing, said.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (GK)