India: 'Welspun plans to double wipes production by March 2014'

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India: 'Welspun plans to double wipes production by March 2014'

When did Welspun venture into technical textiles?

Our production plant was commissioned last year. We manufacture wipes. We have a production capacity of 7000 metric tons per annum.

How is the market in this product?

We export roll goods mainly to the US and European markets, with 95% of our output earmarked for the export markets. Surprisingly, we are receiving good enquiries from African countries and South East Asian markets too. The domestic market for wipes is not too big. We are planning to set up conversion units, to sell the finished product in India. However, we feel, the Indian market could take another five years to grow to feasible levels.

Why did the company choose to move into wipes production?

Firstly, market entry is easy in this product segment, and we found that spunlace has immense opportunities especially in wipes.

How was Techtextil show for Welspun?

It has been a good show, we received many enquiries for JVs, and sourcing agreements.

Are you planning capacity expansion in the near future?

Yes, by March 2014, we plan to increase capacity to 13,500 metric tons per annum. This will require an investment of Rs 55-60 crore. With numerous enquiries from various markets including South America, we expect the entire capacity to be used up. Over the next three years, we plan to broaden our product range to include fem care products, industrial wipes, household wipes and adhesive tapes.