GRAZ – International technology group Andritz has received an order from SNC Kherib et Cie to supply a complete spunlace line for its plant located in Bejaia City, Algeria.

Set to be the very first Andritz spunlace line installed on the African continent, the start-up is scheduled for the end of the third quarter, 2026.

The line will process both viscose and polyester fibres, enabling SNC Kherib to produce high-quality spunlace roll goods for the wet wipes markets to meet the growing needs of African consumers.

This project marks a significant step in the development of the spunlace industry in Africa and opens the door to new opportunities for local converters, Andritz said.

Based in the Bejaia area of Algeria, SNC Kherib is a family business dedicated to a wide range of activities including the production of nonwovens (viscose and cotton cleaning cloths, polyester wadding for mattress and pillows, etc.), PVC cling film, PP woven bags, as well as PVC doors and sandwich panels.

Farid Kherib, founder of SNC Kherib confirmed that the project was a family investment, with each member of the Kherib family actively involved and that SNC Kherib was “leading the way in introducing advanced spunlace technology to the region”.

 “We are proud to collaborate with a global leader like Andritz,” he said. “This partnership highlights our commitment and passion for developing innovative solutions tailored to the specific needs of the African market using state-of-the-art equipment.”

The value of the order will not be disclosed. It is included in Andritz’s order intake for the first quarter of 2025.