Profile of Low & Bonar: A Pioneer in the European Technical Textiles Industry

Low & Bonar is a global leader in the supply of fibres, yarns and fabrics for a broad range of end use markets, including civil engineering, building products, transport, sports and leisure, agriculture and other industrial applications. This vertically integrated group comprises eight companies and carries out a comprehensive range of processes. In recent years, the group has undergone significant restructuring in order to streamline its focus on the more attractive areas of its business. Over the same time period, however, it has made a succession of acquisitions, including Colbond in 2006 and Mehler Texnologies (MTX) in 2008. The group has also sold its contract flooring business, Bonar Floors -- which was responsible for 33% of the group's turnover -- to Forbo Flooring Systems. Going forward, Low & Bonar has identified a number of key growth drivers in each of the markets it serves. This report provides information on the group's development and structure, acquisitions, financial performance, and an outlook for the future.