May 24, 2011 – INVISTA, one of the world’s largest integrated producers of polymers and fibers, is investing more than US$100 million in a new LYCRA® fiber production plant in Brazil. Construction for the expansion project will begin immediately, with an expected opening in late 2012.
“Brazil is a growing market for our business and our customers,” said David Trerotola, president of INVISTA Apparel. “As the only spandex producer currently in Brazil, INVISTA’s presence plays an important role in our global apparel sales volumes.”
In addition to the investment in the new unit, INVISTA will implement new technologies to further enhance the automation and efficiency of its production system.
“Textile companies must continually advance their technology to maintain a world-leading position in the marketplace,” said German Silva, INVISTA Apparel business director for South America. “We are always looking for new ways to develop LYCRA® fiber with value-added attributes. Our vision is to deliver innovative products, anticipating the needs of our customers and end consumer.”
The new spandex plant will generate approximately 1,000 jobs during the construction phase and a significant number of new jobs after the start of operations.
INVISTA has sites in two Brazilian cities, producing SUPPLEX® fabric in Americana and LYCRA® fiber in Paulínia. INVISTA’s existing site in Paulínia, where the new plant is to be built, has a demonstrated track record of success in productivity and industrial safety—operating for more than 36 years without a lost-time injury.
One of the largest spandex producers in the world, INVISTA is the only spandex producer with production capabilities in Asia, Europe, North America and South America. INVISTA’s investments in the business can be seen around the globe as it is also expanding in China, doubling its capacity to meet growing demand in Asia.
Examples of INVISTA’s apparel innovations include Xtra Life LYCRA® fiber, which is 10 times more resistant to chlorine than another type of spandex; LYCRA® beauty fabric, designed to create new solutions for shapewear; LYCRA® Sport fabric, certified fabrics designed to meet specific requirements of high performance athletes; and LYCRA® Fusion fiber, which helps prevent runs or ladders in hosiery.
