Milliken Acquires Westex, Strengthens its Innovative Portfolio of Flame-Resistant Fabrics

The acquisition positions Milliken at the forefront of the flame-resistant (FR) fabric industry

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May 09, 2014, 03:06 ET

SPARTANBURG, S.C., May 9, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Milliken & Company announced today it has acquired Westex, Inc., strengthening Milliken's commitment to providing superior flame-resistant (FR) fabrics for protective clothing.

Recognizing the need for improved workplace safety, industrial employers and regulatory agencies are elevating the importance for workers to remain protected on the job. Together, Milliken and Westex create an unprecedented ability to provide the most innovative fabrics for the millions of global industrial workers who need protection from arc flash, flash fire, and other thermal hazards.

"We look forward to welcoming the Westex team to Milliken & Company," said Jeff Price, president, specialty fabrics division, Milliken & Company. "As we look to the future, we are committed to changing the experience for industrial workers with FR innovations that further improve comfort and productivity."

"All of us at Westex look forward to joining a strong, values-based company with a long heritage of innovation," said Mike Enright, vice president of sales and marketing, Westex. "Westex has a proven track record of developing FR technology, products, and strong end-user relationships that help customers develop successful programs. By combining our collective R&D talent, deep customer knowledge, and market access, we will strengthen our capabilities and offer workers the highest levels of FR protection and comfort."

About Milliken

Milliken is an innovation company that has been exploring, discovering, and creating ways to enhance people's lives since 1865. Our community of innovators has developed one of the largest collections of patents held by a private company. With expertise across a breadth of disciplines including specialty chemicals, floor coverings, and performance materials, we work around the world to add value to people's lives, improve health and safety, and help make the world more sustainable. For more information, visit www.milliken.com or www.millikenfr.com.

About Westex

Established in 1919, Westex has over 50 years of experience manufacturing flame resistant fabrics. With a strong commitment to the FR clothing marketplace and a deep understanding of the needs of the FR supply-chain and end users, Westex has launched several successful brands over the years including UltraSoft®, UltraSoft AC®, Indura®, TrueComfort™, Moda-Quilt® and Vinex®. These brands are specified by many end users globally in the utilities, electrical maintenance, oil & gas and metals industries because of their proven track record of providing an excellent balance of protection, comfort and value. For more information, visit www.westex.com.

SOURCE Milliken & Company