Ahlström Capital, a family-owned investment company that focuses its investment activity in industrial companies and real estate, agreed to invest in Bast Fibre Technologies, a manufacturer of 100% plant-based, intact natural fibres with the technical and performance requirements for a wide variety of nonwoven applications. Financial terms were not disclosed. "Nonwoven companies, converters, and leading consumer goods companies are looking for viable natural fibre options to achieve their corporate sustainability initiatives as they move away from synthetics. The market for natural fibres is set for rapid growth, and this highly strategic funding will help BFT to solidify its position and further accelerate its expansion to meet the increasing demand for tree-free, plastic-free fibres," Jim Posa, BFT CEO.