Eastman Chemical Company is the world’s largest acetate yarn producer and has been in business for more than 85 years.

Acetate yarns are synthetic fibers and a soft, strong and lightweight textile material.  

Eastman produces specialty materials in 36 manufacturing plants. It also owns equity interests in two manufacturing joint ventures. In all, it operates in 12 countries supplying products to customers around the world.

In the manufacture of acetate yarns and fibers, the following companies are its main competitors: 

• UAB Dirbtinis Pluostas.
• Lenzing AG.
• Aditya Birla Group.

Acetate Yarn Producer

Eastman, in the fiber sector, manufactures and markets various products. It produces acetate tow and triacetin plasticizers, which are mainly used in cigarette filters and other filter media. 

In addition, the company offers cellulosic filament yarns and staple fibers, which are ideal for apparel, home furnishings and industrial fabrics. It also manufactures nonwoven media used in filtration and friction applications, with a primary focus on the transportation, industrial and agricultural markets. 

Finally, Eastman produces cellulose acetate flakes and acetyl raw materials, targeting other acetate fiber producers.

Here are some of the advantages of using acetate yarns:

• Easy to dye
• It is obtained from natural cellulose sources and its eco-friendly structure makes it a preferred choice in terms of sustainability.
• It tends to have a glossy appearance.
• More flexible and resistant material.
• Its high breathability makes it comfortable to wear. 
• It has a high moisture absorption capacity.

Financial results

In 2023, Eastman reported sales revenue of US$9.2 billion, earnings before interest and taxes of US$1.3 billion and net earnings attributable to Eastman of US$894 million.