Fabric tech company makes £1.5m investment in personal protection division
Somerset-based specialist fabric-tech company Nonwovenn is investing £1.5m in its ProTech division to boost its position in personal protection and harm reduction.
It says the investment is part of a long-term growth strategy, with a business unit target of £16m turnover by 2028.
A major focus of the investment is in the research and development of CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) protective solutions for first responder and military safety and protective clothing. Nonwovenn is also working closely with ministries of defence, and first responders across the globe.
To support this ambitious growth, Nonwovenn has strengthened its specialist team with four key appointments, all of which are expert recruits with considerable understanding and experience.
Nonwovenn is also making significant strides in product innovation, with new CBRN solutions set to launch throughout 2025 and 2026. Among these are advancements in protection systems for firefighters focused on volatile organic compound (VOC) filtration, as well as next-generation protective solutions tailored towards military and first responders.
Andrew Fisher, head of ProTech at Nonwovenn, said: “This is an exciting time at Nonwovenn. Not only are we investing in cutting-edge R&D, but we’re also building a strong team to bring these innovations to market and fully support our customers. By combining our advanced technology with real-world application insight, we are setting new standards in personal protection and harm reduction.”
Nonwovenn chairman David Lamb added: “Our focus on growth, innovation and talent acquisition reflects our commitment to advancing protective solutions for the industries that need them most. With our ambitious R&D programme, strategic partnerships and industry-leading team, we’re confident in our ability to become the leading player in this segment of the market.”
Nonwovenn was established in Bridgewater in 2003 after the town’s Bonded Fibre Fabrics business went into receivership.
It is now a leading global supplier, with a focus on niche markets and sustainable. It employs around 250 people and exports to more than 30 countries.
