Weakening Euro and low price of raw materials in Europe is welcomed by domestic producers as processors are not queueing up to purchase imports. However things may change as summer months approach and demand for drinks are about to begin. While market experts are forecasting that the price of PET would rise in April, price of crude falling does not seem to support this.
What is the forecast for PET prices in the next coming months ? Will the industry prosper or stumble in low crude oil price environment?
David Swift, PCI's expert for PET will share his insights and detailed analysis on the market at the 16th GEPET conference this year in Lyon! Lyon its ranked as one of the major cities to become Paris' main contender within France today. Known for its historical and architectural landmarks and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site., Lyon has developed a reputation as the capital of gastronomy in France and in the world. The city of Lyon and its surrounding areas has attracted many plastics processors and parts providers. Last year Coca Cola moved its preform production inhouse to Grigny, France in its bid to reduce costs and to be closer to its joint rPET project with APPE near Beaune - an hour away from Lyon. The preform industry reports that there is overcapacity in production for mineral water segment with no growth in sight. On the contrary, demand for PET from household products and personal care is growing and many brandowners are switching from HDPE to PET, thanks to the later's transparency and light weight. Preformers are looking towards cost optimization, reducing energy costs. Brandowners with sustainability approach continues to source for rPET and innovations to increase rPET into their preforms. Earlier this year, a French recycler Valorplast was said to have lowered the guaranteed redemption price for PET bales in response to the past months' sharp decline in virgin material prices, and is also aimed at improving the market in which recyclers operate. How much has the low cost of virgin PET affected the appeal for rPET usage? Attend the 16th Greater Europe PET conference this year in Lyon and get the latest updates on the PET industry. Sign up now to book your seats. Contact Hafizah at hafizah@cmtsp.com.sg Optional tour to the APPE rPET facility on the 10th June and optional indepth workshop on the 12th June on PET recycling and improving rPET quality for food contact applications. | 
