Absorbent Hygiene Leaders Will Convene Nov. 17-20 in Florida

Cary, NC, July 17, 2025 – INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, has opened registration and tabletop reservations for Hygienix 2025, taking place Nov. 17-20 at the Omni Orlando ChampionsGate Resort in ChampionsGate, Florida.

Hygienix will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and business professionals from across the absorbent hygiene products (AHP) industry for expert-led conference sessions, product showcases, interactive workshops, networking opportunities, and the presentation of the Hygienix Innovation Award.

Hygienix Program Highlights

Attendees will gain valuable insights across key areas driving the future of hygiene:

• Sustainability and Circularity: Presentations and panel discussions will cover the latest advances in biobased materials, natural fibers, packaging innovations, Safe Operating Limits (SOL) and End-of-Life (EOL) solutions, and product construction with sustainable materials.
• Consumer and Market Insights: Speakers will explore trends such as the growth of private label products, regional market outlooks, and in-depth sessions on skin health and the microbiome.
• Product Innovation: Panelists will delve into strategies for overcoming hurdles in the race to bring period care innovations to market.
• Regulations and Standards: Presentations will address crucial regulatory updates, including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and testing methods for modern AHP designs.

Business Opportunities and Networking

Tabletop exhibits will showcase the latest innovations in the absorbent hygiene industry, offering a platform for companies to demonstrate their products and services to potential partners and clients.

Hygienix 2025 will also feature Lightning Talks—a series of fast-paced, five-minute presentations by nearly 20 companies scheduled for Nov. 18-19 in the afternoon.

Workshops

Kicking off the conference, INDA will host three workshops on Nov. 17, providing hands-on learning and insights on crucial topics within the sector, including:

• Fundamentals of Absorption Systems and Opportunities in Adult Incontinence
  James Robinson, Principal, Absorbent Hygiene Insights, LLC
• Innovations in Menstrual Care
  Heidi Beatty, Chief Executive Officer, Crown Abbey, LLC
• Baby and Infant Care Market Dynamics
  Natalia Richer, Director of Business Development, Diaper Testing International

Hygienix Innovation Award

Recognizing breakthrough products, technologies, and solutions that are making a significant impact in the hygiene sector, the Hygienix Innovation Award will be awarded at the event.

Nominations will be accepted until Sept. 15. Finalists will present their products on Nov. 18, and the winner will be announced on Nov. 20 to close the event. Last year’s winner was HIRO Technologies’ MycoDigestable Diapers, a biodegradable solution driving environmental progress in infant care.

For information, registration, and tabletop reservations, visit Hygienix 2025. 

About INDA

INDA, Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, serves hundreds of member companies in the nonwovens / engineered fabrics industry doing business globally. Since 1968, INDA networking events have helped members connect, innovate, and develop their businesses. INDA educational courses, market data, test methods, consultancy, and issue advocacy help members succeed by providing them the information they need to better plan and execute their business strategies. INDA Media is the business-to-business publishing arm of INDA and publisher of International Fiber Journal and International Filtration News, which reach a vast network of professionals who employ fibers, filaments, and filtration systems to optimize their application environments. For more information, visit www.inda.org.

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WASHINGTON, DC, June 26, 2025 ─ INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety (WIPPES) Act (H.R. 2269). The WIPPES Act, which creates national standards for “Do Not Flush” labeling for non-flushable wipes, passed out of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce in December of 2023, and today it cleared the House floor in a voice vote. The Senate version of the bill (S. 1092) advanced out of the Senate Science, Commerce, and Energy Committee.

This bipartisan legislation is intended to address the growing problem of sewer system clogs caused by improper disposal of consumer wipes that are not intended to be disposed of in toilets. This federal solution is the result of a years-long industry collaboration with wastewater operators, which has resulted in the passage of similar legislation in seven states. The WIPPES Act will create a national standard based on existing state laws to ensure non-flushable wipes will carry prominent “Do Not Flush” labeling on packaging.

“INDA has championed this legislation for the past two years, and we are encouraged to see it pass out of the House for the consecutive Congress. With the Senate Commerce Committee having advanced the Senate version of the bill last month, we now have more momentum behind this legislation than ever. We extend our thanks to the bill sponsors, our industry and wastewater partners, and INDA members as we take another step forward to make “Do Not Flush” labeling nationwide,” said Wes Fisher, Director of Government Affairs.

The WIPPES Act lead sponsors in the House are Representative Lisa McClain (R-MI) and Representative Kevin Mullin (D-CA), and the bill was introduced in the Senate by Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME).

About INDA

INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, serves hundreds of member companies in the nonwovens/engineered fabrics industry by helping to achieve business growth. Since 1968, INDA helps members convene and connect, innovate and develop their businesses. INDA’s educational courses, business intelligence and market insights, test methods, consultancy and issue advocacy help members succeed by providing information they need to better plan and execute their business strategies. INDA Media is the business-to-business publishing arm of INDA and publisher of International Fiber Journal and International Filtration News, which reach a vast network of professionals who employ fibers, filaments, and filtration systems to optimize their application environments. For more information, visit www.inda.org, or download the INDA mobile app for immediate updates.

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Cary, NC, June 23, 2025 – INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, has announced that eco-friendly wipes developed by Cookware Care, Dude Products Inc., and Magnera have been selected as the finalists for the 2025 World of WipesInnovation Award^®, honoring advances in sustainable materials and next-generation wipe performance.

The three standout products competing for the award are Cookware Care’s Seasoning Wipes, Dude Products’ DUDE Odor Destroyer XL Flushable Deodorant Wipes, and Magnera’s Sontara EC^® Green Cotton.

The companies will showcase their products at the World of Wipes^® (WOW) International Conference, July 21-24, at the Hilton Columbus Downtown in Columbus, Ohio. The winner will be announced during the closing session on July 24.

Presented annually, the World of Wipes Innovation Award recognizes breakthroughs in nonwoven product design and application. It celebrates innovation across the entire wipes supply chain, highlighting advancements in raw materials, fibers, technology, and functionality that enhance the utility and sustainability of nonwovens.

The 2025 Award finalists are:

• Seasoning Wipes offer a simple, convenient, mess-free solution for maintaining cast iron and carbon steel cookware. Made from 100 percent viscose and infused through a proprietary process using a combination of non-petrochemical oils and beeswax, the formula contains no water, emulsifiers, or synthetic additives. The wipes streamline and simplify traditional maintenance with a cleaner, more consistent solution. Seasoning Wipes sets a new standard for cookware maintenance while expanding the possibilities of nonwovens beyond traditional applications.

• DUDE Odor Destroyer XL Flushable Deodorant Wipes utilize powerful, long-lasting technology to capture and eliminate the compounds that cause body odor (including fecal odor), rather than just masking them. These wipes are proven to neutralize odor instantly and reduce it for up to 24 hours on skin, fabric, and in the air. Made with plant-based fibers, aloe vera, and vitamin E, the hypoallergenic wipes, infused with a sea mineral scent, redefine personal hygiene and modern cleanliness.

• Sontara EC^® Green Cotton wipes advance sustainable precision cleaning with natural pure performance. Made from a proprietary blend of 100 percent naturally derived, biodegradable fibers—including pure unbleached TruCotton and sustainably sourced wood pulp—these innovative nonwoven wipes deliver superior absorbency, low lint, and a visibly natural aesthetic, perfect for industrial and critical cleaning environments demanding both technical excellence and environmental responsibility.

INDA’s Technical Advisory Board selected the finalists for their creativity, distinctiveness, and technical excellence in advancing nonwoven applications across the value chain, including innovations in raw materials, roll goods, converting, packaging, active ingredients, binders, additives, and end-use performance.

Last year’s winner was Rockline Industries’ Facial Care Wipe with Glycine Amino Acid Complex, notable for its innovative use of multifunctional glycine ingredients that deliver skin benefits and enhance preservation for nonwovens, marking a significant advancement in skin care wipes.

For more information or to register for WOW 2025, visit www.worldofwipes.org.

About INDA

INDA, Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, serves hundreds of member companies in the nonwovens / engineered fabrics industry doing business globally. Since 1968, INDA networking events have helped members connect, innovate, and develop their businesses. INDA educational courses, market data, test methods, consultancy, and issue advocacy help members succeed by providing them the information they need to better plan and execute their business strategies. INDA Media is the business-to-business publishing arm of INDA and publisher of International Fiber Journal and International Filtration News, which reach a vast network of professionals who employ fibers, filaments, and filtration systems to optimize their application environments. For more information, visit www.inda.org.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 11/06/2025 – Paris, France

Paris, 11th of June 2025 – The Boards of Directors of INDA and EDANA have officially approved the formation of the Global Nonwoven Alliance (GNA) and have concurrently agreed to become its founding members. Both Boards have also approved a motion authorizing each organization to appoint six representatives from each founding organization – current chair and 5 additional representatives.

This move marks a major milestone in the collaborative vision outlined in the organizations’ jointly signed Letter of Intent from September 2024. The Board votes follow extensive planning and consultation and includes the recommendation to formally establish GNA as a non-profit association under the laws of the United States.

By aligning strategic resources and deepening collaboration, the GNA will provide a unified and coordinated approach to the key opportunities and challenges facing the global nonwovens industry. The Alliance is designed to accelerate innovation, improve operational efficiency, expand international reach, and foster long-term industry growth—all while strengthening the services and support delivered to members at both regional and global levels.

Under the GNA framework, INDA and EDANA will continue to operate as independent legal entities, maintaining their regional focus and advocacy efforts. As founding members, however, both organizations will participate in aligning leadership, staffing, and programmatic initiatives to advance shared objectives and cross-border priorities.

In the immediate term, INDA and EDANA will focus on laying a strong foundation for GNA, including establishing the organization and solidifying its governance structure. Looking ahead, Allied Membership is expected to be open to any not-for- profit trade, industry, or professional association whose mission aligns with that of the founding members—offering an inclusive platform for broader collaboration across the global nonwovens value chain.

“The formation of GNA is a milestone for our industry. By working together across regions, we can accelerate innovation, speak with a stronger voice globally, and deliver even greater value to our members,” said Tony Fragnito, President of INDA. “This is not a merger—it’s a strategic alliance built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to the future of nonwovens.”

“With the creation of GNA, we are positioning the nonwovens industry to meet global challenges with greater unity and impact,” said Murat Dogru, General Manager of EDANA. “This collaborative structure allows us to scale our efforts, strengthen our influence, and pursue solutions that benefit our members worldwide.”

GNA will be governed by a Board composed of six members from each founding organization, five appointed representatives plus the current Chair, ensuring balanced representation and a regional perspective. This governance structure will promote transparency, long-term strategic alignment, and organizational stability while guiding shared policies, priorities, and programs.

Additional details will be shared in the coming months. To learn more, visit the dedicated GNA webpage, featuring updated FAQs and additional information about the Alliance’s purpose, structure, and next steps.

About INDA

INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, serves hundreds of member companies in the nonwovens/engineered fabrics industry doing business globally. Since 1968, INDA events have helped members connect, learn, innovate, and develop their businesses. INDA educational courses, market data, test methods, consultancy, and issue advocacy help members succeed by providing them the information they need to better plan and execute their business strategies. INDA Media is the business-to-business publishing arm of INDA and publisher of International Fiber Journal and International Filtration News, which reach a vast network of professionals who employ fibers, filaments, and filtration systems to optimize their application environments. For more information, visit www.inda.org, or download the INDA mobile app for immediate updates.

For further information, please contact:

Misty Ayers
Mobile: +1 919 414 5541
Email: mayers@inda.org
Website: www.inda.org

About EDANA

Comprising over 260 members, EDANA is the leading global association advocating the benefits of nonwovens for society. Since 1971, EDANA has been providing a comprehensive range of services to enhance the industry’s goals and performance, including supporting sustainability ambitions, responsible product stewardship, and addressing common technical, regulatory and market challenges. EDANA also organizes several application-specific and geographic-focused industry events.

For further information, please contact:
Felipe Cossio Cuartero
Mobile: +32 499 689 249
E-mail: felipe.cossio@edana.org
Website: www.edana.org

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To celebrate Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025, EDANA has joined forces with nonwovens associations. AHPMA, the Absorbent Hygiene Product Manufacturers Association, BAHP, the Center For Baby and Adult Hygiene Products, and INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, have joined forces for a dedicated week of action, shining a spotlight on the history, progress, and future of menstrual health and hygiene.

Brussels, 28th May 2025 – To celebrate Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025, EDANA has joined forces with nonwovens associations. AHPMA, the Absorbent Hygiene Product Manufacturers Association, BAHP, the Center For Baby and Adult Hygiene Products, and INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, have joined forces for a dedicated week of action, shining a spotlight on the history, progress, and future of menstrual health and hygiene.

Throughout the week, the four associations will publish a daily series of posts across its digital channels, each focusing on a different aspect of menstrual hygiene—from the historical evolution of products, to the origins and growth of Menstrual Hygiene Day, to a shared vision for a period-friendly world.

Menstrual Hygiene Day is observed annually on 28 May and was first celebrated in 2014. It was established by WASH United to advance dialogue on menstruation, improve menstrual health management, and foster more inclusive policies around the world. The date, 28 May, symbolically represents the average length of a menstrual cycle (28 days) and the average duration of menstruation (5 days).

The campaign began with a look back at the evolution of menstrual care products. For centuries, menstruating individuals relied on natural materials such as moss, animal skins, and cloth rags. The early 20th century saw significant developments, including the use of cellulose during World War I, which paved the way for the first commercially available pads in the 1920s. The decades that followed brought advances in materials, design, and comfort, reflecting a growing awareness of the need for effective, discreet, and hygienic menstrual products.

The week also traced the origins of Menstrual Hygiene Day itself. In 2012, efforts to normalise menstruation gained global traction as grassroots organisations, UN agencies, and advocates worked to confront stigma and improve access to menstrual health education. This momentum led to the launch of a month-long social media campaign in 2013, which evolved into the first official Menstrual Hygiene Day the following year, with 145 partner organisations involved.

Since then, the movement has grown substantially. In 2024 alone, an estimated 966 million people were reached through Menstrual Hygiene Day campaigns—up nearly 38% from the previous year. Media coverage has expanded from 89 articles in 2014 to over 23,000 in 2024, reflecting a marked increase in public interest and policy engagement.

As the campaign progressed throughout the week, EDANA and its partners focused on current challenges and future goals. Key themes included ending period poverty, integrating menstrual health into school curricula, and ensuring menstrual hygiene management is part of national health and education policies.

EDANA remains committed to supporting safe, high-quality menstrual products and ensuring that everyone has the information, resources, and dignity they need to manage menstruation confidently. This week of action reaffirms the role of the industry in contributing to global progress on menstrual health and hygiene.

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Cary, NC, June 5, 2025 – INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry in the US, EDANA, the global association for the nonwovens and related industries in Europe, and the Absorbent Hygiene Product Manufacturers Association (AHPMA) in the UK, are addressing a recent NGO report claiming to have detected trace levels of glyphosate in a single box of tampons.

The report’s comprehensive results have not been published, and the available details are minimal. The report is limited in scale, stating that “just 15 boxes” of tampons were tested. Its main claim centres on a finding in “one of the boxes”, without clarifying whether it was present in just one tampon or throughout the box. We would welcome the test data being shared so that we could examine and understand the results.

Moreover, comparing levels in tampons to drinking water overlooks a crucial point: the nature of exposure. While individuals typically consume around 2 litres of water daily, a tampon is used only a few times per month and remains in contact with the body for only a few hours at a time. As such, the comparison is misleading and disproportionate.

The health and safety of consumers is the foremost, non-negotiable commitment of our industry. EDANA’s voluntary Stewardship Programme for Absorbent Hygiene Products (AHP’s), with its core component—the CODEX—exemplifies the industry’s proactive commitment to safety, consumer confidence, and transparency.

The CODEX establishes stringent guidance values for a list of trace chemicals. It goes beyond current EU and national legislative requirements, showcasing a commitment to best practices. It also incorporates standardized, consumer-relevant test methods[1]—further ensuring that millions of individuals can use AHPs with confidence every day.

Consumers can be assured that tampons are a safe way of managing their period. Our associations reiterate their full confidence in the safety of tampons, built on decades of safe use, rigorous testing, regulatory compliance and proactive industry stewardship.

[1]CWA 18062 is the suggested test for AHP’s.

Contact Information

For media inquiries, please contact:

AHPMA

Contact: Tracy Stewart
Email: stewart.t@ahmpa.co.uk
Phone: (+44) 1 483 962 984

EDANA

Contact: Felipe Cossio Cuartero
Email: felipe.cossio@edana.org
Phone: (+32) 499 68 92 49

INDA

Contact: Misty Ayers
Email: mayers@inda.org
Phone: (+1) 919 459 3712

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Cary, NC, June 3, 2025 — Registration is now open for RISE® 2025 (Research, Innovation & Science for Engineered Fabrics), taking place on October 14-15 at the McKimmon Center, North Carolina State University, in Raleigh, NC.

INDA and The Nonwovens Institute at North Carolina State University, are partnering on RISE to bring together thought leaders, innovators, and supply chain stakeholders. Participants will explore actionable groundbreaking research, emerging technologies, and sustainable solutions shaping the future of nonwovens.

RISE Conference Highlights

Expert speakers will discuss fiber and fabric topics such as sustainability and recycling, materials innovation, biobased and hybrid fiber technologies, biodegradation and enzyme technology, new product designs, and equipment, process, and production systems.

Companies that have already committed to the RISE conference program: CJ Biomaterials will present details on amorphous PHA for PLA Spunbond nonwovens, Keel Fibers will discuss algae-based fibers, while Kimberly-Clark Corporation will address microplastics in the environment.

New for 2025: Showcase and Engagement Opportunities

Tabletop exhibits will be open all day on Oct. 14, providing companies with the opportunity to showcase their latest products, innovations, and technologies to conference attendees.

Additionally, during the conference, participating companies and students will present Lightning Talks—short, fast-paced presentations that deliver concise insights into their most recent developments and breakthroughs.

RISE will kick off with a networking golf tournament and grad student travel fundraiser on Oct. 13 with details to be announced in the coming weeks. Other highlights include industrial and graduate student poster presentations, as well as a tour of The Nonwovens Institute’s state-of-the-art pilot lines, analytical labs, and more.

The RISE® Innovation Award

The event will feature the RISE Innovation Award, recognizing advanced science and engineering solutions that address industry challenges. Nominations are open until July 28 and can be submitted online. Finalists will present their innovations on October 14, with the award winner announced on October 15.

Hempitecture, Inc. received the award in 2024 for its PlantPanel, a sustainable, rigid insulation material designed for exterior applications.

For registration details, visit https://www.riseconf.net/.

About INDA

INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, serves hundreds of member companies in the nonwovens/engineered fabrics industry doing business globally. Since 1968, INDA events have helped members connect, learn, innovate, and develop their businesses. INDA educational courses, market data, test methods, consultancy, and issue advocacy help members succeed by providing them the information they need to better plan and execute their business strategies. INDA Media is the business-to-business publishing arm of INDA and publisher of International Fiber Journal and International Filtration News, which reach a vast network of professionals who employ fibers, filaments, and filtration systems to optimize their application environments. For more information, visit www.inda.org, or download the INDA mobile app for immediate updates.

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Wipes Professionals to Convene July 21-24 in Columbus, Ohio

Cary, NC, May 28, 2025 – INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, is pleased to announce the release of the full conference program for the World of Wipes® (WOW) International Conference, taking place July 21–24, 2025, at the Hilton Columbus Downtown in Columbus, Ohio.

This year’s theme, “Wipe to Win: Innovating for a Sustainable and Profitable Future,” brings together industry leaders to address pressing challenges and opportunities across the wipes value chain. Program topics will include U.S. manufacturing threats, tariff and regulatory impacts, fiber sustainability, consumer perceptions, fragrance trends, slitting advancements, plastic-free wipe innovations, sports hygiene, and flushability.

Conference Sessions Include:

• Panel Discussion: Navigating the Headwinds: U.S. Manufacturing Threats & Challenges in 2025
• From Forest to Flush: Sustainability and Responsibility in Fiber and Wipes
• Trends, Tushes & TikToks: The Rise of the Modern Wipe
• Sniff, Save, Slice: Rethinking Wipes from Fragrance to Finish
• No Plastic, No Problem: The Next Generation of Eco-Wise Wipes
• Swipe Right: The New Faces of Specialty Wipes
• Panel Discussion: The Great Regulatory and Tariff Pow-WOW

Conference Highlights Include:

• WIPES Academy – July 21-22
  Led by Heidi Beatty, CEO of Crown Abbey, this 12-session course offers comprehensive training from concept to commercialization, including selection of fabrics, formulation design, and packaging considerations.
• Tabletop Exhibits & Lightning Talks – July 22-23
  Explore the latest innovations from leading companies. Exhibitors will deliver five-minute product spotlights, followed by networking at the evening receptions.
• Lunch Arounds – July 22-23
  Engage with peers, entrepreneurs, and industry thought leaders in small-group lunch discussions designed to foster collaboration and connections.
• Pre-Conference Webinars
  More details will be released soon.
• World of Wipes Innovation Award^® – July 22 and 24
  Recognizing breakthrough innovations that utilize nonwoven technologies to enhance functionality and broaden application. Finalists will present on July 22; the winner will be announced on July 24.

To view the full conference program, visit: https://worldofwipes.org/conference.php  

To register, reserve a tabletop exhibit, or become a sponsor, visit www.worldofwipes.org

About INDA

INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, serves hundreds of member companies in the nonwovens/engineered fabrics industry to achieve business growth. Since 1968, INDA helps members convene and connect, innovate and develop their businesses. INDA’s educational courses, business intelligence and market insights, test methods, consultancy and issue advocacy help members succeed by providing information they need to better plan and execute their business strategies. INDA Media is the business-to-business publishing arm of INDA and publisher of International Fiber Journal and International Filtration News, which reach a vast network of professionals who employ fibers, filaments, and filtration systems to optimize their application environments.

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For the second consecutive year, North American capacity continued to increase by over 100,000 tonnes, reaching 5.730 million tonnes in 2024, according to the report based on producer surveys and interviews.

Investments across all processing methods and diverse end-use sectors drove this expansion, according to the INDA findings. Production output continues to shift and slowed in 2024. The larger machine installations coming online promise future efficiency and capacity improvements.

The noteworthy trend is the installation of several new production lines, primarily in long-life sectors. This shift underscores the industry’s proactive efforts to achieve sustainability goals and reduce environmental impact.

Report Based on Producer Input

The annual INDA report delivers data to support industry growth and strategic planning, offering a detailed analysis of capacity, production, operating rates, and regional trade across North America, including Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Driven by extensive research, including producer surveys and in-depth interviews with industry leaders, the report provides a comprehensive picture of the nonwoven materials landscape, covering composites, roll and finished goods.

“As part of INDA’s role to be the industry’s trusted data source, this report offers valuable insights for benchmarking, strategic planning, and decision-making,” said Tony Fragnito, INDA President and CEO. “This year’s findings highlight a resilient industry expanding capacity with ongoing investments across all regions and sectors, a strategic shift toward sustainable, long-life products, and a commitment to innovation and meeting rising demand across North America.”

The entire report is provided free of charge to producers who provided information. The Executive Summary from the annual Supply Reports, the quarterly INDA Market Pulse, and the monthly Price Trends Summary are provided to INDA members on a complimentary basis as part of their membership. The data gathered for this annual report is a springboard for the biennial Global Nonwoven Markets Report, published in November 2024.

“INDA is committed to continuing to improve the quality of our data and industry insights, and the ongoing strong participation from suppliers makes that possible,” said Mark Snider, Chief Market and Industry Analyst. “As the market evolves to increasing pressures within the global supply chain, this report examines the key dynamics driving these changes.”

For more information or to purchase, visit: https://www.inda.org/market-intelligence/

About INDA
INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, serves hundreds of member companies in the nonwovens/engineered fabrics industry doing business globally. Since 1968, INDA events have helped members connect, learn, innovate, and develop their businesses. INDA educational courses, market data, test methods, consultancy, and issue advocacy help members succeed by providing them the information they need to better plan and execute their business strategies. INDA Media is the business-to-business publishing arm of INDA and publisher of International Fiber Journal and International Filtration News, which reach a vast network of professionals who employ fibers, filaments, and filtration systems to optimize their application environments. For more information, visit www.inda.org, or download the INDA mobile app for immediate updates.

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Cary, NC, May 12, 2025 – INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, is pleased to announce that Behnam Pourdeyhimi, PhD, Executive Director, The Nonwovens Institute, and Lynda Kelly, SVP, Americas & Business Development, Suominen Corporation (retired) received the IDEA® Lifetime Achievement Award and the INDA Lifetime Service Award respectively last week at IDEA®25 and FiltXPO 2025. The Awards were presented before a crowd of well-wishers, colleagues, and friends cheering them on.

“Behnam and Lynda exemplify the best of our industry—visionary, committed, and generous with their talents,” said Tony Fragnito, President & CEO at INDA. “It’s a privilege to recognize their continuing impact and celebrate their contributions with the community they helped shape.”

“It was my pleasure to honor Behnam and Lynda for their outstanding dedication and significant contributions,” said Matt O’Sickey, PhD, Director of Education & Technical Affairs at INDA. “Their steadfast commitment and passionate advocacy continue to influence and drive progress in the nonwovens industry.”

Behnam Pourdeyhimi, PhD: IDEA® Lifetime Achievement Award

“I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this award. My journey has always been about pushing the boundaries of knowledge, innovation, and collaboration in nonwovens. I’m grateful for the extraordinary colleagues, students, and industry partners who’ve shared this path and whose contributions have been essential to my achievements that are being recognized today.”

Dr. Behnam Pourdeyhimi began his academic career at NC State University after earning his Ph.D. from the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom. He went on to serve at Cornell University, the University of Maryland, and Georgia Tech before returning to NC State in the 1998–1999 academic year.

He currently serves as the William A. Klopman Distinguished Professor of Materials in the Wilson College of Textiles at NC State University, where he also holds appointments as Associate Dean at the Wilson College of Textiles and as an affiliated professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering. He is the Executive Director of The Nonwovens Institute (NWI), the globally recognized center for research, education, and innovation in engineered fabrics.

Early in his career, Dr. Pourdeyhimi focused on developing tools to characterize a wide range of materials—including nonwovens, medical devices, and composites. For this work, he received the ASTM D13 DeWitt Smith Medal. His pioneering research in image analysis earned him the Fiber Society’s Distinguished Scientist Award in 1994, followed by selection as the Fiber Society Lecturer, a role in which he presented his research widely to both academic and industry audiences. He also served as Vice President and President of the Fiber Society.

Dr. Pourdeyhimi is widely recognized for his pivotal role in advancing the nonwovens field at NC State. His return to NC State was driven in part by the opportunity to join the Nonwovens Cooperative Research Center (NCRC), which, under his leadership, evolved into The Nonwovens Institute (NWI). Today, NWI is the largest university-based research institute of its kind in the United States and the world’s first accredited academic program dedicated to engineered fabrics. Through its “Open Innovation” model, NWI brings together industry leaders and academic researchers to develop next-generation nonwoven technologies and train the sector’s future talent.

His contributions to filtration research earned him the prestigious O. Max Gardner Award in 2015—the highest honor in the University of North Carolina system—and the Holladay Medal for Excellence in 2018, NC State’s highest faculty distinction. In 2020, he was inducted as a Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors.

Dr. Pourdeyhimi has authored more than 600 research publications and three books, delivered over 250 conference presentations, and holds 30 U.S. and 65 international patents. Many of his former students now hold influential positions across academia and industry. 

Lynda Kelly: INDA Lifetime Service Award

“I am truly humbled and honored to receive the INDA Lifetime Service Award. Growing up in this amazing industry has been a remarkable journey, working alongside so many incredible colleagues across the globe to develop and sell unique nonwoven product solutions and technologies. As an industry, we have achieved so much over the decades, and I am proud to have been part of its evolution. It has truly been an incredible experience!

Lynda Kelly served as Senior Vice President, Americas & Business Development for Suominen Corporation until her retirement in 2023 due to health challenges. During nearly a decade with the company, she led the Care team before transitioning to oversee the Americas sales organization, working closely with global product and business development professionals. Under her leadership, Suominen expanded its sales, market presence, drove innovation, and achieved enhanced profitability.

Lynda began her career at Kendall, which later became part of International Paper/Veratec and eventually BBA Nonwovens. She held key sales and marketing roles across a range of sectors, advancing into leadership positions. An early-career expatriate assignment in Toronto gave her firsthand experience with the emerging spunmelt nonwovens market, shaping her future direction in the industry.

In addition to her time at Suominen, Lynda brought deep expertise to the field during her 11 years at First Quality Nonwovens, where she was instrumental in expanding spunmelt offerings for the medical sector. She also developed a strong consulting acumen during her two years with John Starr.

A long-standing supporter of INDA initiatives, Lynda has made lasting contributions to the nonwovens industry. She played a vital role on INDA’s AAMI medical disposable standards committee, influencing the development of critical industry guidelines. From 2019 to 2022, she served on INDA’s Board of Directors, helping guide the organization through the challenges of the pandemic and championing greater collaboration across the industry. At Suominen, she also spearheaded community-minded wellness events like “Run or Walk with Suominen,” blending industry engagement, health, fun, and community.

Lynda’s passion for nonwovens extended well beyond her professional achievements. Known for her curiosity and enthusiasm, she often drew inspiration from everyday encounters—examining products in hospitals or clinics and turning observations into innovation implemented within her teams. Her drive to learn, connect, and improve was a hallmark of her leadership.

Above all, Lynda values the relationships that defined her career. She believes the most meaningful aspect of her journey has been the people—colleagues, mentors, and friends—who have enriched it. For her, the true heart of the nonwovens industry lies in its people, the connections, and partnerships that make it thrive.

IDEA®25 and FiltXPO 2025 were held April 29–May 1, 2025, at the Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami Beach, Florida.

The next edition of FiltXPO will take place October 28–29, 2026, at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. IDEA®27 is scheduled for March 23–25, 2027, at the Kansas City Convention Center in Kansas City, Missouri.

About INDA

INDA, Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, serves hundreds of member companies in the nonwovens / engineered fabrics industry doing business globally. Since 1968, INDA networking events have helped members connect, innovate and develop their businesses. INDA educational courses, market data, test methods, consultancy and issue advocacy help members succeed by providing them the information they need to better plan and execute their business strategies. INDA Media is the business-to-business publishing arm of INDA and publisher of International Fiber Journal and International Filtration News, which reach a vast network of professionals who employ fibers, filaments, and filtration systems to optimize their application environments. For more information, visit www.inda.org

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The post Behnam Pourdeyhimi, PhD, and Lynda Kelly Accept Lifetime Awards at IDEA®25 and FiltXPO™ 2025 appeared first on INDA.