Royal Ten Cate (Polyfelt)
Location: Linz, Austria
Sales: $86 million
Description: Key Personnel
Heinz Bocksrucker, CEO; Norbert Niedermayr, CFO; Wolfgang Aue, group marketing; Roland Konrad, group sales; Philippe Delmas, group research and development manager, Michel Haudrechy, president, Bidim; John Smith, managing director, Polyfelt Asia
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France, Kuala Lumpar, Malaysia, Albury, Australia
ISO Status
ISO 9001
Processes
Spunbond and needlepunch
Brand Names
Polyfelt, Bidim (geotextiles and geocomposites), Polyline, Polymat, Megadrain, Envirofelt, Enviromat, Polyfelt AR, Polyfelt Hydrocomp
Major Markets
Geotextiles and geosynthetics
Polyfelt Ges.m.b.H, Linz, Austria, a leader in the European geotextile and geosynthetic markets, achieved 4.9% sales growth in 2001 and has several capacity expansion plans to further propel itself as a major figure in the geotextile industry. The company’s total nonwovens sales for fiscal 2001 were $85.7 million (E$85 million) up from $81 million in 2000. The increase in sales can be attributed to overall price increases, an improved project fulfillment in Europe and a general sales increase in Asia. Currently about 70% of Polyfelt’s worldwide sales are conducted in Europe. The Australasia region comprises 20% while the remaining 10% is distributed throughout the world. “Having most of the sales coming from Europe does not have a specific advantage, but being a clear market leader tends to pay off,” said Wolfgang Aue, group marketing manager. “Although our sales in Australasia are significantly lower than in Europe, we are in a leading position there too.”
In addition to strong European sales, Polyfelt’s sole focus on geosynthetics and geotextiles offers benefits as well. Among the company’s key strengths is its concentration on one market. Unlike some of its competitors, Polyfelt’s role as a nonwovens producer is secondary to its identity as a geosynthetics supplier.
“Specializing and focusing on customer needs is one of the advantages of only participating in the geosynthetics market,” Mr. Aue said. “We do not see ourselves as part of the global nonwovens industry but as part of the global geosynthetics industry.” The company has seen no need to branch out into other nonwovens end use markets, because of its success in the geosynthetics and geotextiles markets.
Polyfelt currently produces more than 30,000 metric tons of 100% continuous filament needlepunched nonwovens. In July the company doubled its capacity at its Kuala Lumpur, Malayasia facility to reach an output between 8000 and 10,000 tons. Polyfelt also plans to expand capacity at its Linz, Austria facility during the next few years.
In addition to the projected capacity expansions, Polyfelt will benefit from several new products developed for use in the geotextiles and geosynthetics markets. Polyfelt AR is a polypropylene, continuous-filament, needlepunched nonwoven geotextile that can be used for railway construction and incorporates an abrasion-resistant additive and an ultraviolet stabilizer. In a railway track refurbishment, the geotextile can be placed directly under the ballast and prevents ballast and filter blanket pollution. “Polyfelt AR helps maintain the construction elasticity and bearing capacity until the track is completely renewed, so it extends the total life cycle of the construction,” said Mr. Aue.
Polyfelt Hydrocomp is a reinforced filter revetment, or surface treatment, for hydraulic engineering. It is used to provide soil stability under water and prevent erosion on coasts or riverbanks, canals and dams. Hydrocomp consists of a special, high strength filter geotextile. Mr. Aue is hopeful that these new products, along with its capacity expansions, will bring Polyfelt increased sales.
For the future direction of the company, Mr. Aue would like to see improvement in the overall global economy, especially the construction industry. Additionally, Polyfelt’s expansions and new products will help the company better establish itself within the geotextiles market. “The capacity expansions will improve our already dominant market position in geotextiles,” he said. By offering the latest in the geotextile and geosynthetics market, Polyfelt expects to remain on track as the industry leader in Europe.
Sales: $86 million
Description: Key Personnel
Heinz Bocksrucker, CEO; Norbert Niedermayr, CFO; Wolfgang Aue, group marketing; Roland Konrad, group sales; Philippe Delmas, group research and development manager, Michel Haudrechy, president, Bidim; John Smith, managing director, Polyfelt Asia
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France, Kuala Lumpar, Malaysia, Albury, Australia
ISO Status
ISO 9001
Processes
Spunbond and needlepunch
Brand Names
Polyfelt, Bidim (geotextiles and geocomposites), Polyline, Polymat, Megadrain, Envirofelt, Enviromat, Polyfelt AR, Polyfelt Hydrocomp
Major Markets
Geotextiles and geosynthetics
Polyfelt Ges.m.b.H, Linz, Austria, a leader in the European geotextile and geosynthetic markets, achieved 4.9% sales growth in 2001 and has several capacity expansion plans to further propel itself as a major figure in the geotextile industry. The company’s total nonwovens sales for fiscal 2001 were $85.7 million (E$85 million) up from $81 million in 2000. The increase in sales can be attributed to overall price increases, an improved project fulfillment in Europe and a general sales increase in Asia. Currently about 70% of Polyfelt’s worldwide sales are conducted in Europe. The Australasia region comprises 20% while the remaining 10% is distributed throughout the world. “Having most of the sales coming from Europe does not have a specific advantage, but being a clear market leader tends to pay off,” said Wolfgang Aue, group marketing manager. “Although our sales in Australasia are significantly lower than in Europe, we are in a leading position there too.”
In addition to strong European sales, Polyfelt’s sole focus on geosynthetics and geotextiles offers benefits as well. Among the company’s key strengths is its concentration on one market. Unlike some of its competitors, Polyfelt’s role as a nonwovens producer is secondary to its identity as a geosynthetics supplier.
“Specializing and focusing on customer needs is one of the advantages of only participating in the geosynthetics market,” Mr. Aue said. “We do not see ourselves as part of the global nonwovens industry but as part of the global geosynthetics industry.” The company has seen no need to branch out into other nonwovens end use markets, because of its success in the geosynthetics and geotextiles markets.
Polyfelt currently produces more than 30,000 metric tons of 100% continuous filament needlepunched nonwovens. In July the company doubled its capacity at its Kuala Lumpur, Malayasia facility to reach an output between 8000 and 10,000 tons. Polyfelt also plans to expand capacity at its Linz, Austria facility during the next few years.
In addition to the projected capacity expansions, Polyfelt will benefit from several new products developed for use in the geotextiles and geosynthetics markets. Polyfelt AR is a polypropylene, continuous-filament, needlepunched nonwoven geotextile that can be used for railway construction and incorporates an abrasion-resistant additive and an ultraviolet stabilizer. In a railway track refurbishment, the geotextile can be placed directly under the ballast and prevents ballast and filter blanket pollution. “Polyfelt AR helps maintain the construction elasticity and bearing capacity until the track is completely renewed, so it extends the total life cycle of the construction,” said Mr. Aue.
Polyfelt Hydrocomp is a reinforced filter revetment, or surface treatment, for hydraulic engineering. It is used to provide soil stability under water and prevent erosion on coasts or riverbanks, canals and dams. Hydrocomp consists of a special, high strength filter geotextile. Mr. Aue is hopeful that these new products, along with its capacity expansions, will bring Polyfelt increased sales.
For the future direction of the company, Mr. Aue would like to see improvement in the overall global economy, especially the construction industry. Additionally, Polyfelt’s expansions and new products will help the company better establish itself within the geotextiles market. “The capacity expansions will improve our already dominant market position in geotextiles,” he said. By offering the latest in the geotextile and geosynthetics market, Polyfelt expects to remain on track as the industry leader in Europe.
Location: Linz, Austria
Sales: $85 million
Description: Key Personnel
Heinz Bocksrucker, CEO; Andreas Matje, CFO; Wolfgang Aue, group marketing manager; Roland Konrad, group sales manager; Philippe Delmas, group research and development manager, Michel Haudrechy, president, Bidim; John Smith, managing director, Polyfelt Asia.
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France; Kuala Lumpar, Malaysia; Albury, Australia
ISO Status
ISO 9001:2000
Processes
Spunbond and needlepunch
Brand Names
Polyfelt, Bidim (geotextiles and geocomposites), Polyline, Polymat, Megadrain, Envirofelt, Enviromat, Polyfelt AR, Polyfelt Hydrocomp, Polyfelt Rock PEC, Polyfelt Rock GX
Major Markets
Geotextiles and geosynthetics
Reporting sales of $85 million in 2002 was geotextiles specialist Polyfelt Ges. m.b.H., Linz, Austria. Polyfelt credits much of its success to its sharp focus on one core market with much of its growth occurring in special, high value geotextiles. “Product and service quality are key success factors in the majority of the geotextiles/geosynthetics markets,” explained group marketing manager Wolfgang Aue.
Polyfelt currently produces 35,000 metric tons of spunbonded nonwovens for the geotextiles/geosynthetics market. European sales account for 70% of total business while Australasian sales represent 25%. The remainder of Polyfelt’s sales are conducted throughout the rest of the world where it is the undisputed market leader in geotextiles both in Europe and the Australasia region.
Business in the Australasia region received a boost last year when Polyfelt doubled its capacity in Kaula Lumpur, Malaysia—a facility the company opened in 2000—to 8000-10,000 tons. Additionally, Polyfelt’s Australian joint venture company with the Kaymac Group, Geofabrics Australasia, based in Albury, Australia, is increasing its capacity and currently offers a strongly diversified geosynthetic product line.
Turning back toward Europe, Polyfelt is reportedly the leading geosynthetics provider in Austria, France, Germany and Italy. This business, which is receiving a boost from several European Union-sponsored civil engineering projects, is served by Polyfelt’s Linz, Austria and Bezons, France, plants and executive say these facilities will be the next to bear the fruits of capacity expansion efforts, most likely in 2005.
Instead of new geographies, Polyfelt will rely on new product development in its core areas for future growth. Of course, this plan is not without its challenges, considering the many regulations to which geotextiles are subject.
“New product development is important but it takes a fairly long time to introduce these products successfully in the market, primarily due to a lot of existing regulations, standards and approval/certification requirements,” Mr. Aue explained.
For instance, starting in October 2002, all geotextile products sold in the EU countries are required to have the CE mark. Indicating, “Conformité Européenne,” this mark declares a product suitable for an exactly defined application. Polyfelt, which has collaborated with the European Association of Geosynthetics Manufacturers to develop quality guidelines for geosynthetics, has included this marking on its products for some time.
These standards present challenges to Polyfelt, but executives feel they will benefit them in the long run as expertise and market knowledge provide advantages over competitors in the market.
Sales: $85 million
Description: Key Personnel
Heinz Bocksrucker, CEO; Andreas Matje, CFO; Wolfgang Aue, group marketing manager; Roland Konrad, group sales manager; Philippe Delmas, group research and development manager, Michel Haudrechy, president, Bidim; John Smith, managing director, Polyfelt Asia.
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France; Kuala Lumpar, Malaysia; Albury, Australia
ISO Status
ISO 9001:2000
Processes
Spunbond and needlepunch
Brand Names
Polyfelt, Bidim (geotextiles and geocomposites), Polyline, Polymat, Megadrain, Envirofelt, Enviromat, Polyfelt AR, Polyfelt Hydrocomp, Polyfelt Rock PEC, Polyfelt Rock GX
Major Markets
Geotextiles and geosynthetics
Reporting sales of $85 million in 2002 was geotextiles specialist Polyfelt Ges. m.b.H., Linz, Austria. Polyfelt credits much of its success to its sharp focus on one core market with much of its growth occurring in special, high value geotextiles. “Product and service quality are key success factors in the majority of the geotextiles/geosynthetics markets,” explained group marketing manager Wolfgang Aue.
Polyfelt currently produces 35,000 metric tons of spunbonded nonwovens for the geotextiles/geosynthetics market. European sales account for 70% of total business while Australasian sales represent 25%. The remainder of Polyfelt’s sales are conducted throughout the rest of the world where it is the undisputed market leader in geotextiles both in Europe and the Australasia region.
Business in the Australasia region received a boost last year when Polyfelt doubled its capacity in Kaula Lumpur, Malaysia—a facility the company opened in 2000—to 8000-10,000 tons. Additionally, Polyfelt’s Australian joint venture company with the Kaymac Group, Geofabrics Australasia, based in Albury, Australia, is increasing its capacity and currently offers a strongly diversified geosynthetic product line.
Turning back toward Europe, Polyfelt is reportedly the leading geosynthetics provider in Austria, France, Germany and Italy. This business, which is receiving a boost from several European Union-sponsored civil engineering projects, is served by Polyfelt’s Linz, Austria and Bezons, France, plants and executive say these facilities will be the next to bear the fruits of capacity expansion efforts, most likely in 2005.
Instead of new geographies, Polyfelt will rely on new product development in its core areas for future growth. Of course, this plan is not without its challenges, considering the many regulations to which geotextiles are subject.
“New product development is important but it takes a fairly long time to introduce these products successfully in the market, primarily due to a lot of existing regulations, standards and approval/certification requirements,” Mr. Aue explained.
For instance, starting in October 2002, all geotextile products sold in the EU countries are required to have the CE mark. Indicating, “Conformité Européenne,” this mark declares a product suitable for an exactly defined application. Polyfelt, which has collaborated with the European Association of Geosynthetics Manufacturers to develop quality guidelines for geosynthetics, has included this marking on its products for some time.
These standards present challenges to Polyfelt, but executives feel they will benefit them in the long run as expertise and market knowledge provide advantages over competitors in the market.
Location: Linz, Austria
Sales: $107 MILLION
Description: Key Personnel
Michel Haudrechy, CEO; Andreas Matje, CFO; Wolfgang Aue, group marketing manager; Roland Konrad, group sales manager; Philippe Delmas, group research and development manager, Michel Haudrechy, president, Bidim; John Smith, managing director, Polyfelt Asia.
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France, Kuala Lumpar, Malaysia, Albury, Australia
ISO Status
ISO 9001:2000
Processes
Spunbond and needlepunch
Brand Names
Polyfelt, Bidim (geotextiles and geocomposites), Polyline, Polymat, Megadrain, Envirofelt, Enviromat, Polyfelt AR, Polyfelt Hydrocomp, Polyfelt Rock PEC, Polyfelt Rock GX
Major Markets
Geotextiles and geosynthetics
Reasonable demand in Polyfelt’s core market, geotextiles, led to modest sales improvements last year. Sales rose from E90 to E95 million despite a trend toward commoditization and currency fluctuations between the U.S. dollar and the Euro.
“The global geotextile market is characterized by a strong tendency toward full commoditization in the main application areas, but there are still opportunities for specialized products for supreme solutions,” said group marketing manager Wolfgang Aue. This situation has led Polyfelt to focus on value-added solutions as well as expansion beyond nonwoven materials to provide new types of geosynthetic solutions in the civil engineering market.
Still, spunbond nonwovens continue to be the core product for Polyfelt, which currently manufactures 35,000 metric tons of the material per year. This figure is set to surpass 40,000 metric tons in coming months once a capacity expansion project at the company’s Linz, Austria headquarters is complete.
Beyond Linz, Polyfelt also operates sites in Albury, Australia and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The majority, 70%, of sales are conducted within Europe, but comprising 25% of the total, Australasia sales are becoming increasingly important to the company.
In Asia, growth is occurring on the heels of infrastructure improvements but environmental concerns in developed areas are also boosting geosynthetics. In 2002, Polyfelt doubled capacity in its Kaula Lumpur facility, which was originally opened in 2000, to reach between 8000-10,000 tons per year. Also benefiting this region is an alliance with the Kaymac Group, Geofabrics Australasia, which is increasing capacity and offering a diverse product line for geosynthetics.
Turning toward Central and Eastern Europe, the entry of countries including Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia into the European Union will not affect Polyfelt because it’s been present in these nations for decades. However, solid growth has been posted and is expected in these areas, albeit from a low base.
This situation is sharply different in core geographic markets of Austria, France, Germany and Italy, where Polyfelt is the reported leading geosynthetics provider. While these markets are mature, new environmental regulations continue to increase the need for geosynthetic products in many areas, according to Mr. Aue.
The needs have increased Polyfelt’s reliance on new product development and, in turn, significantly boosted business in general. One interesting new product is Geodetect, an intelligent geotextile composite that can detect small movements in earthwork structures and prevent damage and consequent risks. It is mainly applied in geographically sensitive areas like carstic zones, mining areas and areas with compressive soils.
As product development continues, executives expect growth to come through expansion beyond nonwovens into other key materials to meet the needs of today’s geosynthetics markets in Europe and beyond.
Sales: $107 MILLION
Description: Key Personnel
Michel Haudrechy, CEO; Andreas Matje, CFO; Wolfgang Aue, group marketing manager; Roland Konrad, group sales manager; Philippe Delmas, group research and development manager, Michel Haudrechy, president, Bidim; John Smith, managing director, Polyfelt Asia.
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France, Kuala Lumpar, Malaysia, Albury, Australia
ISO Status
ISO 9001:2000
Processes
Spunbond and needlepunch
Brand Names
Polyfelt, Bidim (geotextiles and geocomposites), Polyline, Polymat, Megadrain, Envirofelt, Enviromat, Polyfelt AR, Polyfelt Hydrocomp, Polyfelt Rock PEC, Polyfelt Rock GX
Major Markets
Geotextiles and geosynthetics
Reasonable demand in Polyfelt’s core market, geotextiles, led to modest sales improvements last year. Sales rose from E90 to E95 million despite a trend toward commoditization and currency fluctuations between the U.S. dollar and the Euro.
“The global geotextile market is characterized by a strong tendency toward full commoditization in the main application areas, but there are still opportunities for specialized products for supreme solutions,” said group marketing manager Wolfgang Aue. This situation has led Polyfelt to focus on value-added solutions as well as expansion beyond nonwoven materials to provide new types of geosynthetic solutions in the civil engineering market.
Still, spunbond nonwovens continue to be the core product for Polyfelt, which currently manufactures 35,000 metric tons of the material per year. This figure is set to surpass 40,000 metric tons in coming months once a capacity expansion project at the company’s Linz, Austria headquarters is complete.
Beyond Linz, Polyfelt also operates sites in Albury, Australia and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The majority, 70%, of sales are conducted within Europe, but comprising 25% of the total, Australasia sales are becoming increasingly important to the company.
In Asia, growth is occurring on the heels of infrastructure improvements but environmental concerns in developed areas are also boosting geosynthetics. In 2002, Polyfelt doubled capacity in its Kaula Lumpur facility, which was originally opened in 2000, to reach between 8000-10,000 tons per year. Also benefiting this region is an alliance with the Kaymac Group, Geofabrics Australasia, which is increasing capacity and offering a diverse product line for geosynthetics.
Turning toward Central and Eastern Europe, the entry of countries including Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia into the European Union will not affect Polyfelt because it’s been present in these nations for decades. However, solid growth has been posted and is expected in these areas, albeit from a low base.
This situation is sharply different in core geographic markets of Austria, France, Germany and Italy, where Polyfelt is the reported leading geosynthetics provider. While these markets are mature, new environmental regulations continue to increase the need for geosynthetic products in many areas, according to Mr. Aue.
The needs have increased Polyfelt’s reliance on new product development and, in turn, significantly boosted business in general. One interesting new product is Geodetect, an intelligent geotextile composite that can detect small movements in earthwork structures and prevent damage and consequent risks. It is mainly applied in geographically sensitive areas like carstic zones, mining areas and areas with compressive soils.
As product development continues, executives expect growth to come through expansion beyond nonwovens into other key materials to meet the needs of today’s geosynthetics markets in Europe and beyond.
Location: Linz, Austria
Sales: $128 million
Description: Key Personnel
Michel Haudrechy, CEO; Andreas Matje, CFO; Wolfgang Aue, group marketing manager; Roland Konrad, group sales manager; Philippe Delmas, group research and development manager, Michel Haudrechy, president, Bidim; John Smith, managing director, Polyfelt Asia
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France, Kuala Lumpar, Malaysia, Albury, Australia
ISO Status
ISO 9001:2000
Processes
Spunbond and needlepunch
Brand Names
Polyfelt, Bidim (geotextiles and geocomposites), Polyline, Polymat, Megadrain, Envirofelt, Enviromat, Polyfelt AR, Polyfelt Hydrocomp, Polyfelt Rock PEC, Polyfelt Rock GX
Major Markets
Geotextiles and geosynthetics
With sales topping the €103 million mark, geotextiles specialist Polyfelt, Linz, Austria, managed to maintain a steady growth rate of 8% in 2004 in the face of challenging market conditions. “Sales and earnings growth were satisfactory despite some negative effects from U.S. dollar devaluation against the Euro. Although raw material costs were rising significantly, Polyfelt was able to achieve good margins from value-added products,” commented Wolfgang Aue, group marketing manager. He added that the geotextile markets in Europe are growing at a fairly low rate with construction business growth in most European countries below GDP growth.
Of Polyfelt’s 40,000 metric tons of capacity, the majority (70%) targets European markets while Asia/Australia account for approximately a quarter of the company’s business and the rest of the world makes up the remainder. In terms of exports, about 90% of Polyfelt’s sales continue to be generated outside of Austria, which Mr. Aue described as a well-developed geosynthetics market with moderate growth rates.
In discussing the current state of the market, Mr. Aue named product and service quality as key factors shaping the global geotextiles business. “However,” he said, “the trend for unification of standards will push commoditization further. We are seeing commoditization in main application areas, especially in infrastructure development where there are fair chances for smaller niches with special, value-added products and services.” Mr. Aue explained that in spite of such market forces, Polyfelt has been able to maintain a leadership position by building long-term, reliable relationships with its customers.
Polyfelt’s biggest news this year comes in the form of a new 9500 metric ton high performance geotextiles line in Linz, which came onstream in April. The €11 million investment is designed to increase production capacity for geotextiles and further develop the company’s own cutting-edge technology. Polyfelt’s Linz site is expected to benefit from its close proximity to new EU members and the other growth markets of Central and Eastern Europe. Additionally, the company’s newest sales office in New Delhi is expected to help Polyfelt gain a foothold in the booming Indian market for geotextiles.
Commenting on the company’s latest expansion, Mr. Aue described the line as a newly developed, unique draw-off and lay-down-system combined with water jet bonding. “The new plant was designed to achieve advanced product quality and to significantly reduce maintaining cycles and cost.” He added that further expansions are being considered but are not yet specifically planned.
Recent new product efforts in its core market of civil engineering have centered on reinforced high strength geotextiles with different kinds of polymeric yarns such as Polyfelt Rock HM (a polypropylene/aramide bicomponent). Also new from Polyfelt is Geodetect, which is an innovative geotextile-based monitoring system. It consists of Polyfelt Rock PEC high strength geotextiles equipped with optic fibers linked to a monitoring device and a computer.
The system is designed to increase the safety of civil-engineering infrastructure through cost-effective predictive maintenance, especially in sensitive areas. Geodetect is a system developed for the measurement of strain in application areas such as roads and railways, retaining walls, tunnels and other underground structures and pipes (for gas, water or oil).
Looking ahead, Polyfelt’s long-term growth strategy promises to be influenced by the outcome of its planned sale by owner OMV. OMV is seeking a strong investor for the company, capable of fully supporting it in consolidating its international position. The major requirements for investors are a sustainable and profitable investment plan and safeguard for Polyfelt’s Linz headquarters. The decision to sell Polyfelt to a strong investor is a logical step as Polyfelt’s specialization in geosynthetics is continuously moving away from OMV’s business focus. A leading Central European oil and gas supplier, OMV acquired Polyfelt from Chemie Linz AG in 1988.
According to Polyfelt, the move is intended to streamline OMV’s portfolio and enable greater focus on OMV’s core business. Negotiations are being conducted confidentially, according to a recent press release from the company. “The divestment creates a win-win situation for both sides,” commented Gerhard Roiss, OMV associate managing director responsible for Polyfelt. OMV will be in a position to concentrate more on developing its core business. Polyfelt will be able to focus more strongly on its international growth. We are committed to ensuring that Polyfelt takes a partner that will uphold the company’s values and support strategic growth in geosynthetics,” said Mr. Roiss.
Sales: $128 million
Description: Key Personnel
Michel Haudrechy, CEO; Andreas Matje, CFO; Wolfgang Aue, group marketing manager; Roland Konrad, group sales manager; Philippe Delmas, group research and development manager, Michel Haudrechy, president, Bidim; John Smith, managing director, Polyfelt Asia
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France, Kuala Lumpar, Malaysia, Albury, Australia
ISO Status
ISO 9001:2000
Processes
Spunbond and needlepunch
Brand Names
Polyfelt, Bidim (geotextiles and geocomposites), Polyline, Polymat, Megadrain, Envirofelt, Enviromat, Polyfelt AR, Polyfelt Hydrocomp, Polyfelt Rock PEC, Polyfelt Rock GX
Major Markets
Geotextiles and geosynthetics
With sales topping the €103 million mark, geotextiles specialist Polyfelt, Linz, Austria, managed to maintain a steady growth rate of 8% in 2004 in the face of challenging market conditions. “Sales and earnings growth were satisfactory despite some negative effects from U.S. dollar devaluation against the Euro. Although raw material costs were rising significantly, Polyfelt was able to achieve good margins from value-added products,” commented Wolfgang Aue, group marketing manager. He added that the geotextile markets in Europe are growing at a fairly low rate with construction business growth in most European countries below GDP growth.
Of Polyfelt’s 40,000 metric tons of capacity, the majority (70%) targets European markets while Asia/Australia account for approximately a quarter of the company’s business and the rest of the world makes up the remainder. In terms of exports, about 90% of Polyfelt’s sales continue to be generated outside of Austria, which Mr. Aue described as a well-developed geosynthetics market with moderate growth rates.
In discussing the current state of the market, Mr. Aue named product and service quality as key factors shaping the global geotextiles business. “However,” he said, “the trend for unification of standards will push commoditization further. We are seeing commoditization in main application areas, especially in infrastructure development where there are fair chances for smaller niches with special, value-added products and services.” Mr. Aue explained that in spite of such market forces, Polyfelt has been able to maintain a leadership position by building long-term, reliable relationships with its customers.
Polyfelt’s biggest news this year comes in the form of a new 9500 metric ton high performance geotextiles line in Linz, which came onstream in April. The €11 million investment is designed to increase production capacity for geotextiles and further develop the company’s own cutting-edge technology. Polyfelt’s Linz site is expected to benefit from its close proximity to new EU members and the other growth markets of Central and Eastern Europe. Additionally, the company’s newest sales office in New Delhi is expected to help Polyfelt gain a foothold in the booming Indian market for geotextiles.
Commenting on the company’s latest expansion, Mr. Aue described the line as a newly developed, unique draw-off and lay-down-system combined with water jet bonding. “The new plant was designed to achieve advanced product quality and to significantly reduce maintaining cycles and cost.” He added that further expansions are being considered but are not yet specifically planned.
Recent new product efforts in its core market of civil engineering have centered on reinforced high strength geotextiles with different kinds of polymeric yarns such as Polyfelt Rock HM (a polypropylene/aramide bicomponent). Also new from Polyfelt is Geodetect, which is an innovative geotextile-based monitoring system. It consists of Polyfelt Rock PEC high strength geotextiles equipped with optic fibers linked to a monitoring device and a computer.
The system is designed to increase the safety of civil-engineering infrastructure through cost-effective predictive maintenance, especially in sensitive areas. Geodetect is a system developed for the measurement of strain in application areas such as roads and railways, retaining walls, tunnels and other underground structures and pipes (for gas, water or oil).
Looking ahead, Polyfelt’s long-term growth strategy promises to be influenced by the outcome of its planned sale by owner OMV. OMV is seeking a strong investor for the company, capable of fully supporting it in consolidating its international position. The major requirements for investors are a sustainable and profitable investment plan and safeguard for Polyfelt’s Linz headquarters. The decision to sell Polyfelt to a strong investor is a logical step as Polyfelt’s specialization in geosynthetics is continuously moving away from OMV’s business focus. A leading Central European oil and gas supplier, OMV acquired Polyfelt from Chemie Linz AG in 1988.
According to Polyfelt, the move is intended to streamline OMV’s portfolio and enable greater focus on OMV’s core business. Negotiations are being conducted confidentially, according to a recent press release from the company. “The divestment creates a win-win situation for both sides,” commented Gerhard Roiss, OMV associate managing director responsible for Polyfelt. OMV will be in a position to concentrate more on developing its core business. Polyfelt will be able to focus more strongly on its international growth. We are committed to ensuring that Polyfelt takes a partner that will uphold the company’s values and support strategic growth in geosynthetics,” said Mr. Roiss.
Location: Linz, Austria
Sales: $91 million
Description: Key Personnel
Andreas Matje, CEO; Michel Haudrechy, VP marketing and sales; Manfred Winkler, VP product supply; Nick Blasl, VP finance and IT services, Frank ten Oever, VP human resources
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France; Almelo, Netherlands; Kuala Lumpar, Malaysia
ISO Status
ISO 9001:2000
Processes
Spunbond, needlepunch and hydroentanglement
Brand Names
Polyfelt, Bidim (geotextiles and geocomposites), Polyline, Polymat, Megadrain, Envirofelt, Enviromat, Polyfelt AR, Polyfelt Hydrocomp, Polyfelt Rock PEC, Polyfelt Rock GX
Major Markets
Geosynthetics
An important highlight this year for Austrian geotextile specialist Polyfelt was its €70 million acquisition in October 2005 by technical textiles powerhouse Royal Ten Cate (RTC), headquartered in The Netherlands. With nonwovens sales reaching €73 million last year, Polyfelt continues to hold tight to its leading position in the European civil engineering and construction markets.
According to Guenter Froschauer, commercial director, the company’s 2005 performance was impacted by two main influences. “On one side, market development was slowed by the high Euro exchange rate compared to the U.S. dollar. Additionally, internal restrictions, mainly caused by the installation of a new production line, limited our ability to grow sales.” Mr. Froschauer added that there was a significant increase in competition, especially in Europe, as well as constant increases in raw material prices that made 2005 a very tough year.
With intense competition permeating European markets, Polyfelt reported that customers are currently tending to prioritize cost reduction efforts over new product developments. Although several internal product developments—such as Geodetect (a geosynthetic composite combining reinforcement with monitoring of soil movements) and Polyfelt HM, a high modulus grid for special reinforcement applications—have been successfully introduced, sales volumes were not impressive, especially in 2005, according to the company. “This could be explained by the weak and mainly cost-orientated crisis that had to be overcome by the construction industry, especially in the German market,” explained Mr. Froschauer.
Commenting on the European nonwovens industry, he pointed to a consolidation trend exemplified by several take-overs in Europe. “The acquisition of Polyfelt by Royal Ten Cate is a typical example. This trend is partly driven by the stronger competition caused by decreasing margins due to increasing raw material and transportation costs, as well as stymied sales price increases in the main mass markets.” He added that there is also a trend where producers that formerly supplied exclusively nonwovens are now offering competitive, varied product ranges.
In terms of export markets, the company is continuing to focus on the EU, including the new EU candidates. Other neighboring countries, such as CIS (the Commonwealth of Independent States or the former USSR Republics), the near and Middle East and other Eastern European countries, are gaining more importance for Polyfelt.
When it comes to production technology, Polyfelt’s capacity in Europe exceeds 30,000 tons, which is 100% spunbond. The company uses a hydroentaglement process only on its newest production line in Linz. “Developed in-house, this hydroentanglement technology—in combination with the use of new and improved raw materials—enables us to improve the technical properties and therefore the performance of our geotextile products.” Mr. Froschauer added that the new line could help Polyfelt examine new applications.
Polyfelt is now in a phase of consolidation within the existing plants and has no plans to increase capacity in the short term. Going forward, Mr. Froschauer said that profitable growth—achieved largely through export activities—continues to be a strategic goal for Polyfelt.
Key benefits for customers are expected to include not only high quality products and solutions but also a well developed distribution chain and outstanding technical support. Polyfelt predicts that synergies with Royal Ten Cate’s other activities will leverage those possibilities further and result in a powerful global position.
“In the beginning of 2006 we successfully implemented in Europe a new organization out of formerly independent companies but maintained their regional distinctions. This sort of ’think global, act local’ policy will be intensified in the future so we can provide customers a perfect one-stop solution.”
Sales: $91 million
Description: Key Personnel
Andreas Matje, CEO; Michel Haudrechy, VP marketing and sales; Manfred Winkler, VP product supply; Nick Blasl, VP finance and IT services, Frank ten Oever, VP human resources
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France; Almelo, Netherlands; Kuala Lumpar, Malaysia
ISO Status
ISO 9001:2000
Processes
Spunbond, needlepunch and hydroentanglement
Brand Names
Polyfelt, Bidim (geotextiles and geocomposites), Polyline, Polymat, Megadrain, Envirofelt, Enviromat, Polyfelt AR, Polyfelt Hydrocomp, Polyfelt Rock PEC, Polyfelt Rock GX
Major Markets
Geosynthetics
An important highlight this year for Austrian geotextile specialist Polyfelt was its €70 million acquisition in October 2005 by technical textiles powerhouse Royal Ten Cate (RTC), headquartered in The Netherlands. With nonwovens sales reaching €73 million last year, Polyfelt continues to hold tight to its leading position in the European civil engineering and construction markets.
According to Guenter Froschauer, commercial director, the company’s 2005 performance was impacted by two main influences. “On one side, market development was slowed by the high Euro exchange rate compared to the U.S. dollar. Additionally, internal restrictions, mainly caused by the installation of a new production line, limited our ability to grow sales.” Mr. Froschauer added that there was a significant increase in competition, especially in Europe, as well as constant increases in raw material prices that made 2005 a very tough year.
With intense competition permeating European markets, Polyfelt reported that customers are currently tending to prioritize cost reduction efforts over new product developments. Although several internal product developments—such as Geodetect (a geosynthetic composite combining reinforcement with monitoring of soil movements) and Polyfelt HM, a high modulus grid for special reinforcement applications—have been successfully introduced, sales volumes were not impressive, especially in 2005, according to the company. “This could be explained by the weak and mainly cost-orientated crisis that had to be overcome by the construction industry, especially in the German market,” explained Mr. Froschauer.
Commenting on the European nonwovens industry, he pointed to a consolidation trend exemplified by several take-overs in Europe. “The acquisition of Polyfelt by Royal Ten Cate is a typical example. This trend is partly driven by the stronger competition caused by decreasing margins due to increasing raw material and transportation costs, as well as stymied sales price increases in the main mass markets.” He added that there is also a trend where producers that formerly supplied exclusively nonwovens are now offering competitive, varied product ranges.
In terms of export markets, the company is continuing to focus on the EU, including the new EU candidates. Other neighboring countries, such as CIS (the Commonwealth of Independent States or the former USSR Republics), the near and Middle East and other Eastern European countries, are gaining more importance for Polyfelt.
When it comes to production technology, Polyfelt’s capacity in Europe exceeds 30,000 tons, which is 100% spunbond. The company uses a hydroentaglement process only on its newest production line in Linz. “Developed in-house, this hydroentanglement technology—in combination with the use of new and improved raw materials—enables us to improve the technical properties and therefore the performance of our geotextile products.” Mr. Froschauer added that the new line could help Polyfelt examine new applications.
Polyfelt is now in a phase of consolidation within the existing plants and has no plans to increase capacity in the short term. Going forward, Mr. Froschauer said that profitable growth—achieved largely through export activities—continues to be a strategic goal for Polyfelt.
Key benefits for customers are expected to include not only high quality products and solutions but also a well developed distribution chain and outstanding technical support. Polyfelt predicts that synergies with Royal Ten Cate’s other activities will leverage those possibilities further and result in a powerful global position.
“In the beginning of 2006 we successfully implemented in Europe a new organization out of formerly independent companies but maintained their regional distinctions. This sort of ’think global, act local’ policy will be intensified in the future so we can provide customers a perfect one-stop solution.”
Location: Linz, Austria
Sales: $100 million
Description: Key Personnel
Andreas Matje, CEO; Michel Haudrechy, VP marketing and sales; Frank ten Oever, VP human resources
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France; Almelo, The Netherlands
ISO Status
ISO 9001:2000
Processes
Spunbond, needlepunch and hydroentanglement
Brand Names
TenCate Polyfelt, TenCate Bidim (geotextiles and geocomposites), TenCate Geolon, TenCate Nicolon, TenCate Geotube Systems
Major Market
Geosynthetics
Formerly known as Polyfelt until its sale in 2005 to Netherlands-based Royal TenCate, TenCate Geosynthetics Europe checks in this year at number 30, boasting ongoing growth in both sales and profit margins. “We are proud that sales in 2006 were significantly higher than in past years,” reported Andreas Matje, managing director. “All the regions we serve—Europe, the Near and Middle East, the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and Africa—contributed to this positive development. This trend is ongoing in 2007 as well.”
The Austrian company continues to hold tight to its leading position in European civil engineering and construction markets despite high levels of competition in Europe and constantly increasing raw material prices. The good news is that a positive trend in the construction industry in general supported the company’s growth. “We were able to manage to increase sales and profit figures in 2006 and this trend will remain valid for 2007 as well,” Mr. Matje predicted.
With currently installed spunbond capacity in Europe amounting to 30,000 tons, just under one-third (30%) of this is hydroentangled while the rest is needlepunched. Leading export markets are within the European Union, including the new EU candidates. Regions such as CIS, the Near and Middle East as well as other Eastern European countries are gaining importance for the company. “This is based on the fact that their economies are improving and many important infrastructure projects are either under construction or in the decision phase,” said Mr. Matje. “Our export ratio is, therefore, still growing.”
In terms of strategy, profitable growth is the overall target of TenCate Geosynthetics Europe. This growth is expected to come from export activities in combination with market development and penetration in European core countries. The company expects strong sales growth to result from additional products and a focus on other geosynthetic products. “In this respect,” Mr. Matje added, “capital investments will be needed to both provide the demanded quantities and improve production capabilities to meet market- and customer- specific requirements.”
Under its new ownership, a key goal for the company continues to be offering not only products but solutions and services to differentiate itself from the competition. “The synergies within our textile-based group strengthen our ability to further improve our position and our offerings,” Mr. Matje explained.
Looking forward, the company predicts that consolidation in the industry will continue. “This trend is predominantly driven by the fact that bigger companies such as TenCate Geosynthetics Europe are able to offer better service and product quality on a constant basis compared to smaller competitors,” he opined. The company’s primary strategy for the future is to strengthen its competitive situation by improving its product portfolio. TenCate Geosynthetics Europe sees innovation and expansion as the means to that end. “To grow our business, the main focus will be on interesting geographical opportunities and on products offering additional benefits to the market such as our Geodetect monitoring system.”
Sales: $100 million
Description: Key Personnel
Andreas Matje, CEO; Michel Haudrechy, VP marketing and sales; Frank ten Oever, VP human resources
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France; Almelo, The Netherlands
ISO Status
ISO 9001:2000
Processes
Spunbond, needlepunch and hydroentanglement
Brand Names
TenCate Polyfelt, TenCate Bidim (geotextiles and geocomposites), TenCate Geolon, TenCate Nicolon, TenCate Geotube Systems
Major Market
Geosynthetics
Formerly known as Polyfelt until its sale in 2005 to Netherlands-based Royal TenCate, TenCate Geosynthetics Europe checks in this year at number 30, boasting ongoing growth in both sales and profit margins. “We are proud that sales in 2006 were significantly higher than in past years,” reported Andreas Matje, managing director. “All the regions we serve—Europe, the Near and Middle East, the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and Africa—contributed to this positive development. This trend is ongoing in 2007 as well.”
The Austrian company continues to hold tight to its leading position in European civil engineering and construction markets despite high levels of competition in Europe and constantly increasing raw material prices. The good news is that a positive trend in the construction industry in general supported the company’s growth. “We were able to manage to increase sales and profit figures in 2006 and this trend will remain valid for 2007 as well,” Mr. Matje predicted.
With currently installed spunbond capacity in Europe amounting to 30,000 tons, just under one-third (30%) of this is hydroentangled while the rest is needlepunched. Leading export markets are within the European Union, including the new EU candidates. Regions such as CIS, the Near and Middle East as well as other Eastern European countries are gaining importance for the company. “This is based on the fact that their economies are improving and many important infrastructure projects are either under construction or in the decision phase,” said Mr. Matje. “Our export ratio is, therefore, still growing.”
In terms of strategy, profitable growth is the overall target of TenCate Geosynthetics Europe. This growth is expected to come from export activities in combination with market development and penetration in European core countries. The company expects strong sales growth to result from additional products and a focus on other geosynthetic products. “In this respect,” Mr. Matje added, “capital investments will be needed to both provide the demanded quantities and improve production capabilities to meet market- and customer- specific requirements.”
Under its new ownership, a key goal for the company continues to be offering not only products but solutions and services to differentiate itself from the competition. “The synergies within our textile-based group strengthen our ability to further improve our position and our offerings,” Mr. Matje explained.
Looking forward, the company predicts that consolidation in the industry will continue. “This trend is predominantly driven by the fact that bigger companies such as TenCate Geosynthetics Europe are able to offer better service and product quality on a constant basis compared to smaller competitors,” he opined. The company’s primary strategy for the future is to strengthen its competitive situation by improving its product portfolio. TenCate Geosynthetics Europe sees innovation and expansion as the means to that end. “To grow our business, the main focus will be on interesting geographical opportunities and on products offering additional benefits to the market such as our Geodetect monitoring system.”
Location: LINZ, AUSTRIA
Sales: $102 million
Description: Key Personnel
Andreas Matje, CEO; Gerold Freudenthaler, commercial director East; Jean-Pasqual Mermet, commercial director West; Jan-Willem Heezen, commercial director Industrial fabrics; Günter Froschauer, marketing director; Cor Roozemond, VP product supply, Christian Korn, VP finance; Frank ten Oever, VP human resources
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France; Almelo, The Netherlands
ISO Status
ISO 9001:2000
Processes
Spunbond, needlepunch and hydroentanglement
Brand Names
TenCate Polyfelt, TenCate Bidim, TenCate Geolon, TenCate Nicolon, TenCate Geotube Systems
Major MarketS
Geosynthetics
The positive developments of 2006 continued in 2007 for TenCate Geosynthetics Europe. Strong sales in all of its markets—from Europe, including the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), to the Near and Middle East and Africa—contributed to the company’s solid results. Primary drivers were TenCate Geosynthetics’ strong strategic position in European civil engineering and construction markets and a positive economic background.
Nonwovens continue to play a vital role for the company, representing more than half (60%) of overall sales. Its European nonwovens capacity remains at 30,000 tons, with a 70/30 split between needlepunched and hydroentanglement technologies. “This capacity is absolutely sufficient to serve our target markets for the time being,” explained Andreas Matje, managing director. “Our strategy is constant and is in the process of being successfully implemented.”
TenCate Geosynthetics’ main export markets have traditionally been within the European Union, including the new EU candidates. Other neighboring countries such as CIS, the Near and Middle East (especially the Golf area and Turkey) and the other Eastern European countries are gaining importance as their economies improve and many important infrastructural measures are in construction or in the decision phase. For this reason, TenCate Geosynthetics’ export ratio is still growing.
The company is continuing to strive toward offering a complete and competitive product range for all core applications. “We do this by leveraging our international capabilities to combine products from our various plants and learn from our international activities,” Mr. Matje remarked. “The process to integrate additional products and solutions into our offering is therefore a key success factor.”
As for what factors will shape the geotextiles business in the future, Mr. Matje put industry consolidation at the top of his list, mainly driven by the fact that bigger companies such as Tencate Geosynthetics are able to offer better quality for services and products on a constant basis compared to smaller competitors, especially in a competitive environment.
Sales: $102 million
Description: Key Personnel
Andreas Matje, CEO; Gerold Freudenthaler, commercial director East; Jean-Pasqual Mermet, commercial director West; Jan-Willem Heezen, commercial director Industrial fabrics; Günter Froschauer, marketing director; Cor Roozemond, VP product supply, Christian Korn, VP finance; Frank ten Oever, VP human resources
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France; Almelo, The Netherlands
ISO Status
ISO 9001:2000
Processes
Spunbond, needlepunch and hydroentanglement
Brand Names
TenCate Polyfelt, TenCate Bidim, TenCate Geolon, TenCate Nicolon, TenCate Geotube Systems
Major MarketS
Geosynthetics
The positive developments of 2006 continued in 2007 for TenCate Geosynthetics Europe. Strong sales in all of its markets—from Europe, including the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), to the Near and Middle East and Africa—contributed to the company’s solid results. Primary drivers were TenCate Geosynthetics’ strong strategic position in European civil engineering and construction markets and a positive economic background.
Nonwovens continue to play a vital role for the company, representing more than half (60%) of overall sales. Its European nonwovens capacity remains at 30,000 tons, with a 70/30 split between needlepunched and hydroentanglement technologies. “This capacity is absolutely sufficient to serve our target markets for the time being,” explained Andreas Matje, managing director. “Our strategy is constant and is in the process of being successfully implemented.”
TenCate Geosynthetics’ main export markets have traditionally been within the European Union, including the new EU candidates. Other neighboring countries such as CIS, the Near and Middle East (especially the Golf area and Turkey) and the other Eastern European countries are gaining importance as their economies improve and many important infrastructural measures are in construction or in the decision phase. For this reason, TenCate Geosynthetics’ export ratio is still growing.
The company is continuing to strive toward offering a complete and competitive product range for all core applications. “We do this by leveraging our international capabilities to combine products from our various plants and learn from our international activities,” Mr. Matje remarked. “The process to integrate additional products and solutions into our offering is therefore a key success factor.”
As for what factors will shape the geotextiles business in the future, Mr. Matje put industry consolidation at the top of his list, mainly driven by the fact that bigger companies such as Tencate Geosynthetics are able to offer better quality for services and products on a constant basis compared to smaller competitors, especially in a competitive environment.
Location: LINZ, AUSTRIA
Sales: $102 Million
Description: Key Personnel
Wally Moore, CEO; Rich McLeod, director sales marketing, Jean-Pasqual Mermet, marketing director; Jan-Willem Heezen, marketing director; Günter Froschauer, marketing director; Cor Roozemond , vice president of product supply, Christian Korn, vice president of finance; Martin Gritter, vice president of human resources
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France; Almelo, The Netherlands
ISO Status
ISO 9001:2000
Processes
Spunbond, needlepunch and hydroentanglement
Brand Names
TenCate Polyfelt, TenCate Bidim, TenCate Geolon, TenCate Nicolon, TenCate Geotube Systems
Major Market
Geosynthetics
Checking in this year at number 33 is TenCate Geosynthetics Europe, a company that continues to enjoy its strategic position in European civil engineering and construction markets. TenCate supplies an array of geosynthetic products to Europe, including the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), the Near and Middle East and Africa. Under the ownership of Royal TenCate, TenCate Geosynthetics has locations in North America, Europe and Asia, and consists of two commercial divisions—TenCate Geosynthetics and TenCate Industrial Fabrics.
TenCate Geosynthetics’ commercial division serves the geosynthetics industry with three brands in Europe: TenCate Polyfelt, Ten- Cate Bidim and TenCate Miragrid. The company supplies turnkey system solutions for road and railway constructions, retaining structures, hydraulic constructions, embankments, tunnel construction, pipeline construction, landfills and shoreline protection/ marine structure construction markets. Its high performance geosynthetics perform functions such as separation, filtration, soil reinforcement, erosion protection, sealing, stress relief, adhesive bonding, confinement and drainage.
TenCate’s Industrial Fabrics commercial division serves the industrial fabrics market with four brands in Europe: TenCate Geotube, TenCate Aquagrid, TenCate Nicolon and TenCate TopTex. Markets include dewatering, water management, aquaculture, agriculture, building and industrial.
Nonwovens continue to play a vital role for the company, representing more than half of overall sales. Its European nonwovens capacity remains at 30,000 tons, with a 70%/30% split between needlepunched and hydroentanglement technologies.
TenCate Geosynthetics’ main export markets have traditionally been within the European Union, including the new EU candidates. Other neighboring countries such as CIS, the Near and Middle East (especially the Golf area and Turkey) and the other Eastern European countries are important as well.
In Australia, where parent company TenCate operated a geosynthetics joint venture, the company has decided to sell its 50% interest in Geofabrics Australasia, based in Cheltenham, Australia. TenCate sold its stake to Noel P Hunt International for AUD 40 million (approximately €23 million); the €11 profit on the sale will be incorporated in the half-year 2009 figures of TenCate.
TenCate acquired its 50% stake in 2005 through its takeover of Austrian roll goods supplier Polyfelt. Noel P Hunt International was already a joint shareholder in Geofabrics Australasia. Given the strong worldwide market position and the integration of Polyfelt into the geosynthetics activities of TenCate, the equity participation in Geofabrics Australasia, without majority control, is not seen by TenCate as strategic. Agreements have reportedly been reached with the company concerning the continuation of a commercial cooperation.
Sales: $102 Million
Description: Key Personnel
Wally Moore, CEO; Rich McLeod, director sales marketing, Jean-Pasqual Mermet, marketing director; Jan-Willem Heezen, marketing director; Günter Froschauer, marketing director; Cor Roozemond , vice president of product supply, Christian Korn, vice president of finance; Martin Gritter, vice president of human resources
Plants
Linz, Austria; Bezons, France; Almelo, The Netherlands
ISO Status
ISO 9001:2000
Processes
Spunbond, needlepunch and hydroentanglement
Brand Names
TenCate Polyfelt, TenCate Bidim, TenCate Geolon, TenCate Nicolon, TenCate Geotube Systems
Major Market
Geosynthetics
Checking in this year at number 33 is TenCate Geosynthetics Europe, a company that continues to enjoy its strategic position in European civil engineering and construction markets. TenCate supplies an array of geosynthetic products to Europe, including the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), the Near and Middle East and Africa. Under the ownership of Royal TenCate, TenCate Geosynthetics has locations in North America, Europe and Asia, and consists of two commercial divisions—TenCate Geosynthetics and TenCate Industrial Fabrics.
TenCate Geosynthetics’ commercial division serves the geosynthetics industry with three brands in Europe: TenCate Polyfelt, Ten- Cate Bidim and TenCate Miragrid. The company supplies turnkey system solutions for road and railway constructions, retaining structures, hydraulic constructions, embankments, tunnel construction, pipeline construction, landfills and shoreline protection/ marine structure construction markets. Its high performance geosynthetics perform functions such as separation, filtration, soil reinforcement, erosion protection, sealing, stress relief, adhesive bonding, confinement and drainage.
TenCate’s Industrial Fabrics commercial division serves the industrial fabrics market with four brands in Europe: TenCate Geotube, TenCate Aquagrid, TenCate Nicolon and TenCate TopTex. Markets include dewatering, water management, aquaculture, agriculture, building and industrial.
Nonwovens continue to play a vital role for the company, representing more than half of overall sales. Its European nonwovens capacity remains at 30,000 tons, with a 70%/30% split between needlepunched and hydroentanglement technologies.
TenCate Geosynthetics’ main export markets have traditionally been within the European Union, including the new EU candidates. Other neighboring countries such as CIS, the Near and Middle East (especially the Golf area and Turkey) and the other Eastern European countries are important as well.
In Australia, where parent company TenCate operated a geosynthetics joint venture, the company has decided to sell its 50% interest in Geofabrics Australasia, based in Cheltenham, Australia. TenCate sold its stake to Noel P Hunt International for AUD 40 million (approximately €23 million); the €11 profit on the sale will be incorporated in the half-year 2009 figures of TenCate.
TenCate acquired its 50% stake in 2005 through its takeover of Austrian roll goods supplier Polyfelt. Noel P Hunt International was already a joint shareholder in Geofabrics Australasia. Given the strong worldwide market position and the integration of Polyfelt into the geosynthetics activities of TenCate, the equity participation in Geofabrics Australasia, without majority control, is not seen by TenCate as strategic. Agreements have reportedly been reached with the company concerning the continuation of a commercial cooperation.