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New Report Highlights Litho Plate Challenge from Far East International GA industry analysts, Vantage Strategic Marketing, have just published an important new study "Worldwide Lithographic Plate Manufacture & Supply 2000-2005" Produced by Derek Wyse & Associates, the 217 page Report highlights fundamental changes taking place in worldwide litho plate manufacture and distribution, including:- A chronic 35% overcapacity of notional worldwide aluminium litho plate production resulting in continuing downward pressure on conventional plate prices. By end '01, global litho plate manufacturing capacity had grown to 551million M2, an 18% increase over the past 2 years, with a 24% increase in China alone. Greatest oversupply continues to occur in North America and Europe, where manufacture exceeds domestic supply by a factor of around 50%. · A resultant shift of manufacturing capacity by traditional ģfirst tierī suppliers among the highly developed markets of North America, Europe and Japan to regional manufacture where domestic supply shortfalls occur and production costs are low. · The arrival of regional manufacturers - mainly in the Middle and Far East - as international plate suppliers - often subsidised by government in an effort to gain hard currency. · The Report asks whether all the major Western plate manufacturers will rationalise their established manufacturing resources and invest production in the developing Far Eastern markets, - as Agfa have recently announced - or will they attempt to carve out a larger share of the premium CtP plate market nearer to home? · The Report also takes a strategic overview of the international graphic arts industry, highlighting the key factors which are driving the changes in structure of both plate manufacturing and distribution, and the implications for existing suppliers, especially with the growth of CtP. · Plate manufacturing criteria and production parameters are detailed with a cost comparison and breakdown by components of ėfirst tierķ versus regional suppliers, together with regional plate pricing comparisons, and the decision criteria necessary when considering the upgrade of existing plate lines, or the siting of new facilities. · With the rapidly changing supply profile of the industry, and resultant economic pressures, supply and distribution should be the most dynamic sector of the industry in ķ02 and the Report contains a unique in-depth list and profile of dealer/distributor networks covering 22 countries worldwide, highlighting the dynamics of change. Further information can be obtained by visiting the VSM website at www.vsm.uk.com or from Derek Wyse Vantage Strategic Marketing The Lodge Gayles Richmond North Yorks DL11 7JQ Tel (44) 1833 621364 e-mail derekwyse@vsm.uk.com
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