Spread of supply bottlenecks widens

In recent weeks, more and more raw material suppliers are reporting limited material availability. Orders are confirmed without a fixed and binding delivery date and raw materials are subject to quotas. Delivery times are extended by up to four months, depending on the material.

In the case of rubber compounds and plastic granulates, all market participants assume, similar to steel, an imminent European supply problem, which results from reduced production capacities of the polymer industry, the significantly lower rubber production in the last year, as well as a disproportionately increased demand from the Asian region. For these reasons, we are examining all alternatives and remain in close contact with our suppliers in order to ease the situation.