While the costs and availability of many raw materials have stabilized during 2012, there remain reasons for concern for prices and supply during the coming year.
For pigment manufacturers, 2011 brought some growth in the printing ink market, and they remain optimistic for 2012 in spite of concerns over the economy and raw materials.
Increase has become necessary due to a serious shortage in raw materials that are essential to coldset products – notably rosin resin and most pigments
The top international ink manufacturers faced major challenges during the last year, as raw material prices rose while the global recession impacted demand for printing.
Leading ink manufacturers had a challenging year, as higher raw material prices dominated the first half of 2008, and the global recession heavily impacted sales at the end of the year.
As companies struggle with higher raw materials costs, a struggling economy and increasing pressure on margins, more consolidation is likely throughout the supply chain.