Prices for fine papers in Europe have fallen significantly last year, and downward pressure remained evident around the turn of the year.
Leading graphic paper manufacturers - including The Navigator Company, Sappi, Burgo, and Lecta - are now seeking to reverse the trend and have announced price increases. The companies are blaming their decisions on low paper prices and high costs for raw materials, energy, logistics or labour.
Portuguese The Navigator Company was the first to launch a price hike initiative on the market in Europe. The company had announced a price increase of 5 to 8 per cent for all deliveries of woodfree uncoated office and offset paper as of 2 January.
Fine and specialty paper producer Lecta has announced a price increase for its entire range of two-side coated woodfree papers. Prices are to go up by 8 per cent effective 1 April, according to the company.
Graphic paper producer Arctic Paper launched a price hike initiative for fine paper prices with effect from 1 April. The company has announced a price hike of 8 to 10 per cent for both woodfree uncoated and coated papers across the European market.
Italy's Burgo Group plans to hike prices for woodfree coated and uncoated reels and sheets by a minimum of €50/t for deliveries with effect from 1 April.
Sappi Europe plans to increase prices for woodfree coated paper before the start of the second quarter. The company announced a price hike vor CWF sheets as of 16 March by €50/t.
