Dow Polyurethanes to hike prices

MIDLAND, Mich. (Dec. 18)—Dow Chemical Co.'s Dow Polyurethanes business group will increase off-list prices for all pure and polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyante products as well as prices for Voranol polyether and copolymer polyols by 6 cents per pound for rail car shipments. The price hikes, which are effective Jan. 1, apply to coatings, adhesives, sealants, elastomers and rigid applications in the U.S. and Canada. The MDI boost also covers flexible applications. Commercial Director Richard L. Beitel said continued cost pressure on MDI and polyol production in 2002 resulted in "a decrease in margins and a loss of profitability for Dow Polyurethanes." To remain a viable long-term supplier, the company needed to increase prices and recover its losses, he said.