Unifi has purchased nine DTY (drawn textured yarn) machines and a sample machine, all of which will be relocated to the company's manufacturing facility in Yadkinville, NC.

The purchase is expected to increase the company's production capacity in the growing regional market, while also providing additional flexibility to support the production of the company's successful portfolio of premier value added products.

Flexibility and growth potential

"The number of lot changes required to support the needs of our customers has grown substantially over the years, which puts a premium on flexibility and the ability to provide shorter production runs and quicker turnarounds within our manufacturing process," explained Roger Berrier, President and Chief Operating Officer for Unifi.

"The investment in the nine DTY machines will increase our capacity to support our overall volume growth, and will advance our objective of growing the volume of our premier value added yarns by 20% annually.  The new sample machine will provide additional product development capacity, which will allow Unifi to stay at the forefront of product innovation."

Regional sourcing

Regional supply of synthetic apparel, which includes the US, has increased steadily since 2009.  The region has maintained its overall share of synthetic apparel supply, as brands and retailers continue to remain committed to regional sourcing as part of their overall sourcing plans.

"The continued growth of synthetic apparel production in the region will lead to ongoing opportunities for the company.  This investment adds to our capacity and helps assure Unifi will be in a position to supply the increasing regional demand," said Bill Jasper, Chairman and CEO of Unifi. "Many of our customers choose to source their products from this region, and Unifi's continuing investment in the Americas demonstrates our commitment to servicing their needs."

Unifi

Unifi is a diversified producer and processor of multi-filament polyester and nylon textured yarns and related raw materials. The company adds value to the supply chain and enhances consumer demand for its products through the development and introduction of branded yarns said to provide unique performance, comfort and aesthetic advantages.

Key Unifi brands include AIO, all-in-one performance yarns, SORBTEK, AMY, MYNX UV, REPREVE, REFLEXX, MICROVISTA and SATURA.  Unifi's yarns and brands are readily found in home furnishings, apparel, legwear and sewing thread, as well as industrial, automotive, military, and medical applications.

www.unifi.com