UK printers can expect to pay more for their fine papers next year, according to the latest UK Preview 2002 study from PPL Research.

"The UK fine-paper sector has endured a torrid time through much of this year, but the prospects for 2002 are more bullish," said Lawrence Turk, publisher for PPL Research and UK Preview 2002.

Turk said this years price depreciation would bottom out, with increased levels of demand, particularly during the second half of 2002, set to result in higher prices.

"Prices are expected to respond to increased levels of demand and a gradual recovery in the pulp market," he said.

Turk felt the latter assumption would depend on pulp producers continuing to take the required level of downtime to balance supply and demand.

The report also reveals that, in contrast, printers will be paying less for publication papers as they are brought in line with downward movement in Europe.

Packaging printers can also expect to benefit from lower prices as the manufacturing economy continues to contract during 2002.

UK Preview 2002 provides price and demand forecasts for all major paper and board grades, along with analysis of all the key drivers. Copies of the 75pp report are available priced 600 from PPL Research.

Tel: 01442 232770, or e-mail: enquiries@pplresearch.co.uk

Story by Andy Scott