According to EDANA, the association serving the nonwovens industry, production of nonwovens in Europe grew by 7.3% in 2007 to reach 1,654,200 tons compared to last year. The average price of nonwovens decreased from 3.34 to 3.27 euros per kg. The total turnover of the European nonwovens industry is estimated at 5.41 billion euros.

For growth by process, the needling process, spunmelt and airlaid increased by 9 to 10% from last year.

Polypropylene continues to be the most important material used in the industry accounting for 813,000 tons, 47.7% of total consumption, but polyester increased by 10.4%, retaining its growth.

The main end-use for nonwovens was the hygiene market with a 33% share of the total, amounting to 538,000 tons which has grown by 7.4%. Civil engineering (up by 14.8%), building/roofing (up by 11%) and wipes (up by 10.7%) applications are growing as well.

The EU27 Member States exported 247,000 tons of nonwovens at a value of almost 1.02 billion euros, which represents a 14% increase in volume and 8.4% in value compared to the previous year, continuing to be in good form.