Arjowiggins Graphic blames pulp cost increase for 10% price rise

Paper manufacturer Arjowiggins Graphic is to increase the cost of its graphic papers by 10% as of 1 June.

The company said the increase was because of "the growing difficulties in sourcing sufficient fibres" in recent weeks, which had led to further pulp price increases that have "no sign of a reversed trend" in the next few months.

A spokeswoman added: "Despite the selling price rise implemented in April and extensive cost reduction measures, it is not possible to avoid a further price increase to compensate for this dramatic raw material cost situation.

"This exceptional situation, combined with major increases in the cost of chemicals and oil, is the reason for Arjowiggins Graphic to announce a price increase of 10% on its coated and uncoated paper grades."

The move is in addition to the price increases announ­ced earlier this year for wood-free and recycled papers, sheets and reels of at least 8% as of 15 March.

In the past few months, several paper manufacturers have said they will increase their paper prices, blaming a rise in the cost of pulp.