Flint Group has flagged that prices across its offset products for packaging will need to go up again early next year.

The group's Offset Packaging Solutions (OPS) business has warned that the well-documented supply chain challenges and rising input costs affecting manufacturers are “showing no sign of losing momentum”, with costs rising to “unprecedented levels”.

Prices for sheetfed inks and coatings, pressroom chemistry and transfer media such as blankets will go up from 1 February 2022 as a result.  

In August Flint indicated that further price increases were likely because of the supply chain situation. This is the fifth price increase or surcharge announced by Flint Group divisions and brands this year. 

Flint OPS stated: “The rapid increase in costs and shortage in supply can be seen across all procurement categories, the vast majority of which can be seen across pigments, resins, oils, organic chemicals, solvents and additives, as well as a significant increase in the cost of steel, plastic, corrugated and wooden packaging types.”

The firm also said that the increase in freight and logistic costs had been “unparalleled”.

Nick Brannan, global business director at Flint Group OPS, commented: “Flint OPS main driver remains continuing to support our customer base during these unprecedented times, as well as ensuring continuity of supply. 

“We have taken steps that support our business model, inventory holding capabilities and standard operating procedures in managing any potential delays due to shortages in the supply chain, however, we unfortunately cannot control all eventualities, such as upstream force majeure announcements and the acute global freight imbalance.”

Brannan said the business was “fully committed to supporting our customer base during this trying time”, and was working closely with its global supply chain partners in order to offset as many negative effects as possible.