Rising foam prices are placing significant pressure on mattress and upholstery manufacturers, with industry leaders warning of imminent retail price increases.
The disruption stems from a global shortage of propylene oxide, a key chemical used in polyurethane foam production, exacerbated by a fire at a major US plant and ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting supply chains. As a result, suppliers have implemented double-digit price increases, with some exceeding 20%, alongside strict allocation limits.
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Major producers including Carpenter Co., FXI and Future Foam have announced price hikes ranging from 12% to over 20%, with further increases expected. Manufacturers report that foam, a core cost component, cannot absorb these rises, with some forecasting mattress price increases of $100 or more.
Executives say the situation differs from previous disruptions due to its global scale, affecting supply across Asia, Europe and North America simultaneously. Rising energy, freight and raw material costs are compounding the issue.
With supply expected to remain volatile in the short term, industry leaders anticipate continued pricing pressure, adding strain to a market already facing weakened consumer demand.
Source: www.furnituretoday.com
