U.S. Nonwovens has announced the completion of Phase II of its $32 million Expansion and Modernisation Programme. The company, who produce personal and home care products for the branded and private label retail markets, has just developed a 500,000 square feet manufacturing and distribution centre near their headquarters in Brentwood, New York.
Phase II comprises investments in state-of-the-art automated blending, converting, and robotic packaging lines and moulds, as well as an upgrade of nonwoven lines at its current Brentwood Mill plant. Investment in research and development, new IT systems and training, and EU regulatory compliance and permits were also included.
“The completion of Phase II allows USN to better serve its European retail and institutional customers with competitive prices, faster supply, and improved service”, the company stated. “It also strengthens the links between the North American manufacturing base and USN sales offices in the UK, Sweden, Poland, Germany, Lithuania, and Ireland, ensuring European customers receive the same service and benefits as the North American centres.”
With Phase II finished, USN's annual capacity skill sets will have increased greatly, ensuring their ability to satisfy consumer demand and stay afloat through any unpredictable surges in demand, such as last year's H1N1 Swine Flu crisis. Phase III has already begun, and although few specific details are known, it is believed to be much larger in scope than the previous stage.One thing that is clear, however, is a further tackling of environmental challenges. Having achieved 100% wind energy consumption in selected facilities, this commitment to environmental protection is set to continue.
The Expansion Programme is expected to significantly increase USN's impact in the European nonwoven market. The company has offices in several European locations, and the programme will allow them to lower prices and bring more efficient supply to these markets. They said that they are committed to delivering 'innovative solutions with enhanced benefits and improved customer experiences' to their expanding customer base in North America and Europe.
USN manufactures a 'Multi Product Matrix' for supplier consolidation, and takes pride in increasing efficiency in logistics, transactions, and administration 'beyond typical efficiencies in the cost of goods and manufacturing'. The company was founded in 1993 and is based in Long Island, New York. They now operate from six strategically located distribution centres in the US. (15 Oct)© 2010 - ESM: European Supermarket Magazine
