Bristol, Va.-based Universal Fibers, a manufacturer of solution-dyed fibers including post-industrial and post-consumer recycled fibers, has announced plans to invest $13 million to expand operations at its headquarters, adding 84 employees to its current workforce of 420 people.

The expansion will increase spinning capacity to meet customer demand for recycled and recyclable products, among other initiatives. "This expansion serves to expand existing manufacturing processes, but it also moves us down the path of new innovation around post-consumer recycling and our EarthSmart Technology® brand," said CEO Marc Ammen. "A third part of the expansion is creating more of a customer-friendly feel with our facilities and adding a design area/product center here at our headquarters."

EarthSmart Technology comprises end products as well as such practices as maximizing manufacturing processes and equipment, reducing waste and conserving resources. Universal Fibers' nylon 6,6 ReFresh Fiber® is made using a process that converts post-consumer carpet to high-quality nylon 6,6 for reuse in new product.

January/February 2010