Albany International Corporation is a name many in Perth recognize, and for good reason. For over four decades, this local facility has played a crucial role in the global paper manufacturing industry—quietly making big things happen from right here in our backyard.
Albany’s Perth plant specializes in manufacturing forming fabrics—custom industrial textiles used in paper production. These fabrics are woven from plastic onto metal wires, then heated, cut, sealed, and shaped into belts that are installed in paper machines. It’s highly technical, incredibly precise work, and every product is made to order. No two are quite the same.
Each forming fabric takes about two weeks to complete and is shipped worldwide—about 75% to the U.S., with the rest headed to customers across Canada, Mexico, and other countries. The Perth plant operates 24/7 and employs 148 full-time staff members, keeping the facility running smoothly around the clock.
What makes Albany truly unique is its fully customized production model. Instead of mass-producing identical items, every order is tailored to the client’s specifications. This approach requires a high level of expertise, adaptability, and attention to detail—qualities that the Perth team is known for.
Albany International traces its roots back to 1895 in Albany, New York—where the demand for paper was booming. Originally family-owned, the company has been publicly traded for the past 30 years. Over the decades, it expanded across North America. While there were once four or five similar plants in Canada, only the Perth facility remains today, a testament to its success and resilience in a shifting market.
One of the key leaders at the Perth plant is Production Manager Derek Peters, who has been with Albany since 1998. Derek began his career at Albany as an application engineer, travelling extensively. Over the years, he climbed the ranks—becoming a quality manager and eventually taking on the role of production manager. He’s the first person in 25 years to be promoted into this role from within the Perth plant itself.
Derek oversees the entire operation, ensuring that safety, quality, and efficiency are always top priorities. He also manages the plant’s various departments, working closely with a team that includes some employees who’ve been with Albany since the day the facility opened.
The past few years have brought significant changes. As demand for traditional paper products like newspapers continues to decline, Albany has pivoted its production focus and explored new markets, such as materials used in tissue and toilet paper production. The company’s strength lies in its ability to adapt—backed by a skilled workforce and a management team committed to innovation.
Hiring has also presented challenges. The nature of the work is highly specialized, and training new employees can take anywhere from six to nine months. Since the pandemic, around one-third of the current workforce has joined within the last five years. Albany remains selective in hiring, focusing on people with the right attitude and the willingness to learn. Technical skills can be taught—the right mindset can’t.
One of Albany’s greatest assets is its workplace culture. The company prides itself on offering a clean, safe environment, with excellent benefits and strong support from leadership. Employees enjoy a healthy balance of challenge and communication, and many say they genuinely look forward to coming to work each day. It’s not uncommon to meet staff members who have been with Albany for 20, 30, or even 40 years. The company is deeply committed to being the employer of choice in the region, believing that when you invest in good people, great results follow.
From its long-standing history to its bright future, Albany International remains a cornerstone of Perth’s industrial community. Here’s to the next chapter of innovation, excellence, and hometown pride.
For more information on Albany International Corporation visit their location on Rideau Ferry Rd. or contact them at 612-267-6600.
