MARL, Germany (June 17, 2008) — PolymerLatex GmbH & Co. K.G. said it is hiking prices for all its carboxylated latices sold to the tire cord industry and is reviewing two European plants, which could face closure.
The company said it is boosting prices immediately of LS-SBR grades sold under the brand name Litex S by 25 percent, and Pyratex PSBR grades by 30 percent. PolymerLatex said the increases are needed to restore sustainable margin levels.
The company blamed the latest increases in monomer, energy and transportation expenses for the price changes.
PolymerLatex said it is considering all possibilities to improve efficiency and lower production, energy and raw material costs at LS-SBR and PSBR plants in Marl and La Wantzenau, France.
The options include a “reassessment of the continuation of these businesses,” the company said.