Nilit, a manufacturer of nylon 6.6 for thermoplastics and apparel applications, has signed an agreement to acquire Invista’s manufacturing site in Americana, Brazil, with intent to continue the site’s nylon 6.6 operations.

The transition is expected to finalise in the fourth quarter of 2014. “I want to extend thanks and appreciation to all Invista employees in Americana for their dedication through this process,” said Dave Trerotola, President of Invista Apparel & Advanced Textiles.

“We believe the Americana site’s nylon 6.6 operations will enhance Nilit’s global manufacturing presence, and we wish them well as the Americana site opens a new chapter in its history.”

Complementing portfolio

“In addition to our sites in the US, China and Israel, this acquisition complements Nilit’s global nylon 6.6 manufacturing operations. South America in general—and Brazil in particular—both represent a key opportunity for Nilit,” commented Fabio Kahn, Managing Director, Nilit Fibers Division.

“We have been active in this market since the early 1990s and have developed an excellent reputation for quality and service, with a growing number of active customers. We plan to increase our DTY capacity and to reinforce our local presence.”

The company is an integrated nylon 6.6 business engaged worldwide in fibres for the textile industry and engineering plastics for the automotive and electrical industries. With headquarters in Israel, it works closely with its international customer base from offices and production sites in Italy, the United States, Germany, France, Latin America, Asia Pacific, and China.

Commitment to Brazilian market

“The valuable assets at the Americana site will allow Nilit to increase the value we provide to our customers. With this acquisition, we can significantly reinforce Nilit's commitment to the Brazilian market, enabling us to expand sales to other customers, especially in the circular and warp knitting segments, by taking advantage of a very efficient, well-maintained and highly established site,” said Zion Ginat, General Manager, Nilit Group.

“A local production presence will guarantee a fast market penetration and, in addition, a footprint in Brazil, which will allow further potential expansions. We look forward to cooperating with the local workforce.”

Trerotola added: “Invista Apparel remains very much committed to Brazil, and this transaction will allow us to focus our energy in Brazil on our growing Lycra spandex business.” With leading brands including Lycra, Coolmax, Cordura, Stainmaster and Antron, Invista is one of the largest integrated producers of chemical intermediates, polymers and fibres.

www.nilit.com

www.invista.com