Paper price rises for printers

UK printers are set to face yet more rises in the price of paper as several merchant are planning an increase, some of up to 15%, from the start of next month.

Industry magazine Printweek found that some firms who had been able to agree reduced rates on the publicised rises with merchants were struggling to do so in the current economic climate.

Firm Victoria Litho has secured some agreements with merchants, including deals where the full hike did not always need paying, yet still paid 8% on every rise in the last year.

Sales director Simon Beard said: "Considering the current climate, I find this a slap in the face for printers from our UK paper merchants - it's a bit like getting a birthday card the day after a bereavement."

The Midas Press said it would be necessary to absorb some of June's price rise, and Top Print managing director Giles Lock admitted the paper industry was having to change after basic prices had stayed the same for around a decade.

Copyright © Press Association 2010