PRODUCTION UNDER WAY AT MENASHA

Journal Sentinel staff and wire reports

Consumer products maker Kimberly-Clark Corp. has introduced a line of disposable panties, a new product in the $2.1 billion U.S. feminine care industry.

The company says Kotex Personal protective panties are designed to diminish leakage when used with a tampon or feminine pad and protect clothing, bedding and lingerie.

Production of Kotex Personals began Dec. 30 at Kimberly- Clark's Lakeview plant in Menasha, spokeswoman Wendy Strong said. The $100 million plant opened in the fall of 1993, and a $50 million expansion was begun last fall to accommodate the new Kotex line and increase production of the other feminine hygiene products made there, she said. Employment at the plant has grown from 340 to 400 as a result of the expansion, she said.

"Consumer research shows that no matter how effective a pad or tampon may be, more than 60% of women experience leakage each month," said Kathi Leg 1 ends here Seifert, Kimberly-Clark's group president for North American consumer products.

Kimberly-Clark said the disposable panties fit like traditional underwear, but have a breathable barrier and are made of a cloth-like, non-woven material developed by the company.

The product will be shipped to retailers nationally in July. They will sell for about $3 for a package of three, and will come in two sizes, the company said.

In other news, Kimberly- Clark said it would take a first- quarter charge of about $27 million, or 17 cents a share, because of the devaluation and subsequent fall of the Mexican peso.

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