CHANDLER, AZ -- Isola said it might raise prices up to 10% due
to cost increases in various raw materials for laminate and prepreg
products. A decision is expected in a few weeks.
Price inflation has been rampant for such materials as
hydrocarbon-based products, copper and even oil. In a press release,
Tim McCloskey, vice president sales, Americas, said, “Recent increases
in the prices of all
hydrocarbon-based products are having a significant impact on the cost
structure throughout the Isola product line. In addition, rising oil
prices have increased operating costs through higher natural gas prices
and freight surcharges. Copper prices continue at record levels in the
commodity markets, driving recent increases from the producers of
electrodeposited copper foil."
"Our goal
is to keep any potential increase in the 8 to 10% range. While we
regret that this action may be necessary, it is quite clear that the
entire supply chain in electronics manufacturing is similarly
affected”, said McCloskey.
Recently, a pair of major Japan-based laminate producers raised prices about 10%.
An announcement detailing the pricing for Isola products is
anticipated in the coming weeks.
SAN JOSE -- North
American-based manufacturers of
semiconductor equipment posted $1.09 billion in orders in September on
a three-month, down 1% from August and 19% from last year. The
book-to-bill ratio was 1.02, the
SEMI trade group said.
GREENVILLE, SC -- Kemet Corp. today said it is in "advanced" negotiations to acquire the tantalum capacitor business of Epcos AG. The deal is expected to close early next year, and no financial terms were disclosed.
Separately, however, Epcos said the proceeds of the sale would improve its net cash
flow by at least 70 million euros.
In a press release, Kemet said the acquisition would increase its access to key markets
including automotive and telecom and broaden its manufacturing base.
The deal hinges on the completion of a definitive agreement, among
other customary business.
Epcos is based in Munich. The tantalum capacitor business was reportedly profitable
business until 2001, but since has been hurt by overcapacity and falling prices.