Wichita, Kan.-based global integrated fibers and polymers manufacturer Invista is investing more than $100 million to build a new LYCRA® fiber production plant in Paulínia, Brazil, to replace its existing Lycra plant at that location. The project is expected to create approximately 1,000 jobs during the construction phase, which will begin immediately, and a considerable number of jobs after operations begin in late 2012.

"Brazil is a growing market for our business and our customers," said David Trerotola, president, Invista Apparel. "As the only spandex producer currently in Brazil, Invista's presence plays an important role in our global apparel sales volumes."

Invista also will put in place new technologies to improve the new plant's production system's automation and efficiency.

"Textile companies must continually advance their technology to maintain a world-leading position in the marketplace," said German Silva, Invista Apparel business director, South America. "We are always looking for new ways to develop Lycra fiber with value-added attributes."

In addition to the Lycra plant in Paulínia, Invista has a SUPPLEX® fabric production site in Americana, Brazil.

May 31, 2011