Unprecedented Price Hikes in Rubber !

Since the start of the Covid pandemic in March 2020, we have seen a gradual increase in prices for various rubbers.

Much of this has been down to short supply, as output dropped with many factories at reduced staffing levels due to the Coronavirus strain that has been so devastating.

Demand generally during the last year has been lower because of this – but now, as we are starting to see demand go back to normal levels, other factors are coming into play.

With shipping containers across the World in the wrong places, and many ships taken out of commission – along with port closures, prices are now being forced prices up – in some cases almost 40% higher than a year ago.

What can be done?

At EAS we hold reasonable stock of material, however Rubbers have restricted shelf lives, so we are always governed by these.

Sheet material that we use for gasket conversion is dependant on the cost of replenishing stock and it is inevitable that any large increases will need to be passed down the supply line.

Where possible, we’ve been helping customers by supplying alternative materials – a recent application saw us reduce a simple gasket – supplied for years to our customer in an over-specified material (by an unscrupulous supplier) – reduced form £3.68 each to just £0.65 each with no quality issues.

Contact Us

Give us a call, or email us with your requirements – we’re more than happy to look at alternative materials for you and help in anyway to reduce your costs !