Bast Fibre Technologies Inc., a manufacturer of premium natural fibers for global nonwoven and textile industries, has named James Posa the new president and CEO.

At the beginning of 2022, Bast Fibre Technologies acquired Lumberton Cellulose LLC from Georgia-Pacific Cellulose LLC in Robeson County.

Posa joined Bast Fibre Technologies in September 2018 as a business development consultant, and in April 2020 was appointed as president and general manager. 

Co-founder and former CEO Noel Hall will be taking over as executive chair to focus on long-term strategic plans for the company. 

The purchase of Lumberton Cellulose builds Bast Fibre Technologies' existing relationship with Georgia-Pacific Cellulose. Back in February 2020, Bast Fibre Technologies licensed a suite for the use of bast fibers of nonwoven products and processes from Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products. 

“James has exactly the right kind of experience, passion and skills to lead Bast Fibre Technologies for the next phase of our growth,” said Hall. “This is the right time for James to assume the CEO role at Bast Fibre Technologies. The acquisition of FVT in Germany and most recently Lumberton Cellulose in North Carolina have greatly accelerated our move into large scale commercial production.”

This acquisition is the first North American natural fiber processing facility.

Bast Fibre Technologies plans to grow and invest in Lumberton Cellulose as its flagship manufacturer in the United States, which will create new opportunities and markets for North American hemp and flax growers.

“I am excited to lead Bast Fibre Technologies into its next phase of growth, building the foremost natural fiber innovator and manufacturer for the global nonwoven and specialty textile markets,” said Posa. “The world is urgently seeking solutions to plastics pollution, and Bast Fibre Technologies’ tree-free and plastic-free, natural plant fibers will play a key role in the movement away from single-use plastics.”