Drypers.

Baby diaper manufacturer Drypers, Houston, TX, had a busy year. The company expanded its line of baby care products with "Drypers Supreme Diapers with Germ Guard" along with an antibacterial baby wipe product. The new products were developed in response to company research indicating increased consumer demand for antibacterial products and strong interest in diapers and baby wipes with antibacterial treatment. In addition, the line included the popular features of the "Drypers with Aloe Vera" line, including breathable sides to permit more air flow and a soft, cloth-like backing.

In the Canadian market, Drypers made its debut with its line of disposable diapers and training pants. The move extended the reach of the company's flagship line, Drypers with Aloe Vera, now featuring tri-lingual packaging in English, Spanish and French.

In recent acquisition news, Drypers this year acquired Malaysian baby diaper manufacturer Primosoft, Kuala Lumpur, in a transaction estimated at $12 million in cash and stock. As a result, Drypers has obtained a meaningful presence in the heart of Southeast Asia and is well-positioned for long-term growth in the Asian market. Dryers will also maintain Primosoft under the tradename "Pureen," which has been the second leading brand in the country.

In another move, Drypers has leased a manufacturing facility in Buenos Aires, Argentina that is significantly larger and better equipped than the one it lost to a fire in early August. The company moved into the new facility in mid-September. In addition, Drypers planned to launch a new disposable diaper, "Xuxa," for the Brazilian market to complement its existing "Puppet" diaper line.

Finally, Drypers joined forces with Wal-Mart, Bentonville, AK, to develop the "Cozies" brand name, which became the private label diaper for Wal-Mart International. Drypers is the sole supplier of Cozies to Wal-Mart Supercenters and Sam's Club stores throughout Brazil and Argentina and agreed to transfer ownership of the name to WalMart. In a related move, Wal-Mart granted Drypers its Mexican and Puerto Rican private label diaper business, to be sold under the Cozies brand name.