Quick Packaging News

LLDPE: Stretch Film Demand Improves Proposed 4-cent August increase in question. Resin buyers balk at new increase in light of current business climate. Average U.S. selling prices for resin have bounded up since July 1, fueled by rapid rises in feedstock prices. Benzene - a key feedstock used in the production of many commodity resins - closed at $2.92 per gallon in July, up almost 25 percent from June. August could bring more of the same, with benzene set to close at $3.65 per gallon, an increase of an additional 25 percent. Plastics Market Reports August 2009 Polyethylene prices firmed this week and participants continued to discuss tight supply and strong export demand. Producers are seeking to implement a 4-cent increase in PE prices in August. The outcome has not been determined and negotiations continue. Market Analyst August 2009 Chemical makers post big sales declines; see recovery. Four U.S. chemicals makers reported significant declines in sales as the global recession stran

LLDPE prices soft, trading light Proposed 4-cent July increase, and 4-cent August increase in question. Growing number of resin buyers quiz increase rationale with economy woes causing weak demand. PE prices softened this week and trading was relatively light. Producers have proposed 4-cent increases for July, and an additional 4-cent increase to for August. The outcome of the July increase initiative has not officially been determined. However, a growing number of market participants are questioning the rationale behind these increases in the face of a weak economy and slack demand. Market Analysis July 2009