Universal Fibers To Begin $13 Million Expansion

Bristol, VA, Dec. 9, 2009--Universal Fibers said it will invest $13 million in an expansion at its Bristol headquarters that will create 84 new jobs. 

Universal Fibers, a producer of solution-dyed fibers for the commercial flooring, transportation, industrial fiber, and textile markets, has been located in Washington County, Virginia for nearly 40 years.

“Because operations here in Washington County Virginia is the location of our branded EarthSmart Technology initiative, this location was our first choice for this exciting expansion,” says CEO Marc Ammen.

"This expansion will increase our spinning capacity to help us meet customer demands for our recycled and recyclable products.”

EarthSmart Technology has various components in addition to the end products, including maximizing manufacturing processes and equipment, developing waste saving systems and facility conservation. It is also an overall attitude of environmental and social concern on the part of the company and its employees.

Through EarthSmart Technology, Universal Fibers is the first in the fiber industry to produce post-consumer nylon 6,6 fiber called ReFresh Fiber.

This is the ninth major expansion at the plant since it established operations at the Washington County Industrial Park in 1970.  During that time, the company has grown from 67,000 to 300,000 square feet and has added seven times more extruder lines.

The expansion is partly funded by a $150,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund as well as $300,000 from the Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission.