Trelleborg expanding US engineered coated fabrics business

Trelleborg, Sweden – Trelleborg Group is planning to invest SEK300 million (€26 million) to expand its engineered coated fabrics business in Rutherfordton, North Carolina.

The investment will primarily aim to strengthen Trelleborg's positions in aircraft escape slides, water infrastructure, and advanced materials for healthcare and outdoor products.

Trelleborg expects to break ground on the project in the fourth quarter of the year, with production starting in early 2026, said a group statement issued 15 July.

The project will add new technology, production and development capacity at the Rutherfordton site, operated by Trelleborg Industrial Solutions business area.

The move will strengthen the Swedish components supplier’s role as “a long-term partner to our customers," said Peter Nilsson, group president and CEO.

In compliance with sustainability requirements, the new building will be “LEED-certified, and operations will be carbon-neutral,” according to Trelleborg.

The new facility will also enable increased use of bio-based polymers and recycled raw materials at the site.

Operational since 2007, the Rutherfordton plant produces rubber-coated fabrics among other types of coated fabrics.