The largest North American nonwovens event ever held attracted 7000 visitors and delegated from 60 countries, and almost 400 exhibitors. A wide range of polyester fibres was on view with news from KoSa ( Freshloft , Loftguard Xtra ), Wellman ( Fortrel ), Fiber Visions ( Hy-Strenght ) and Ems-Griltech ( Griline ). Eastman Chemical Co won an Achievement Award for biodegradable resins which were described. Rhodia Performance Fibers capacity and current products were covered. Seaisland and side-by-side bi-component types were exhibited by Far Eastern Textile Ltd. PET fibres and yarns for a wide variety of applications were offered by Tuntex Ltd and Intercontinental Polymers Inc. There was speculation on future formation of NewCo involving Lenzing AG and Tencel Ltd and Intercontinental polymers Inc. There was speculation on future formation of NewCo involving lenzing AG and Tencel Ltd (Acordis). Spunbond Versatility was noted Mogul Ltd, Avol Nonwoven Industries, Freudenberg, BBA Nonwovens and Sandler were featured.