People are probably tired of hearing about the dysfunctional supply chain, but unfortunately it’s still a concern. We can expect more challenges for the rest of 2022.
The availability of disposable gloves will feel the impact. That does not point to a looming shortage, but it does affect pricing, availability of certain sizes, or availability in certain parts of the country.
With the onset of the pandemic, manufacturers were forced to ramp up production quickly. They turned their immediate focus to exam-grade product to meet the overwhelming need in medical applications. For industrial nitrile, prices went up and availability went down.
For the first time in two years, the coronavirus is not the No. 1 issue affecting global markets. Instead, oil prices—and the war in Ukraine—have become the top disruptors slowing trade and driving up costs.
That doesn’t mean COVID is going away just yet. Governments have been lifting restrictions imposed to slow its spread, including rules governing travel, socializing, mask wearing, and self-isolation. But still it lingers, and in some countries it is thriving.
Other than Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, headlines this year have been dominated by soaring oil and gas prices. In some parts of the U.S., gas has surpassed $6 a gallon.
Disposable gloves are an invaluable tool in kitchens around the globe. From making burger patties to mixing salads to plating and serving food, they protect against cross-contamination as well as keeping hands safe from chemicals and cleaning solutions.
We often get questions about the suitability of using disposable gloves over an open flame like a grill. Distributor partners say their customers inquire about using disposables when cooking, and which material is best in those situations.
Economies around the globe are in turmoil. High demand, market pressures—and the conflict in eastern Europe and its consequent political instability—are driving gas and oil prices higher, and countless industries are feeling the pain.
Last week oil reached $130 a barrel and may go even higher (although the price came down a bit as the week began). The worst-case forecast has been raised to $240 a barrel, and the high prices could lead to a global recession as soon as this year.
Those black nitrile gloves (product code: GPNB) have for years been a mainstay of AMMEX’s product line. At 5 mils thick, they deliver all the barrier protection customers need for a variety of chemicals while also featuring the best traits nitrile has to offer (excellent fit and feel, puncture resistance, tactile sensitivity).
If you sell disposable gloves for a living, you should be excited about the return of Gloveworks Nitrile with Raised Diamond Texture (RDT). They present an awesome opportunity for distributors because they drive more revenue than standard gloves.
Our top-of-the-line gloves—a favorite with end-users for the better part of a decade—were largely out of stock for the last two years because of supply complications from COVID-19.
“We love your gloves, and our customers love your gloves,” says distributor Manny M. “We couldn’t get what we needed for a good while, so I’m glad you guys have them again.