Low & Bonar’s division Bonar, specialising in high-performance technical textiles, today celebrates its foundation ceremony to start the construction of the new factory tol be built in Changzhou, China.
Low & Bonar CEO Brett Simpson said: "Our decision to invest in a new factory in China to support the fast growing Asian markets is consistent with our strategy and will consolidate our position as global leader in the carpet tile backing and automotive markets.
"The new factory will facilitate from the start one production line for 60 million square metres of Colback. This is a unique technology to supply the fast-growing and important carpet tile backing and automotive markets in China and the Asian region.
"In the flooring industry, Colback is widely used as a primary backing in carpet tiles, high-grade patterned wall-to-wall carpeting and walk-off mats. The dimensional and thermal stability of Colback prevents carpets from bowing and skewing during processing and makes installation, especially pattern repeat, easier. In the new factory, there will be enough space for a second production line of Colback."
Bonar global business director of interior and transportation Marc Krauth said: "This investment is an exciting opportunity to capitalise on our unique technology base both domestically and in Asia, and to follow and support our strategic US customers moving into the Asian Pacific region. This state-of-the-art production facility will provide a strong platform for our further growth. The Changzhou Government and Changzhou National High-Tech District (CND) have been very supportive to make our new investment in CND possible."
The total cost of the investment will be around €32m spread over two years and is funded by Bonar’s own resources. Bonar country manager for China Alex Xu said: "Production is expected to commence in 2016 and sales and technical support will be provided by the team located in Shanghai."
