Signs of Optimism Amid Concerns for 2003

2002 has been another challenging year for the printing ink industry. Overall, dollar and volume sales are down from even 2001’s low levels. Meanwhile, raw material prices are climbing in some areas, particularly naphthalene, which presents more problems for margins. On top of that, uncertainty in the Middle East remains a major threat. If tensions escalate, the worldwide economy will be affected and oil prices may jump. That will undoubtedly lead to further increases in raw material costs. Ho...