IMERYS Pigments increases price of kaolin and calcium carbonate by 5-7% in the US and Brazil, effective Jan 1

ATLANTA, GA, Nov. 22, 2011 (Business Wire) - IMERYS Pigments for Paper and Packaging North America announces price increases for kaolin and calcium carbonate, effective January 1, 2012, subject to any provisions in individual customer contracts.

The prices of kaolin produced in the USA and Brazil, including calcined kaolin products, will increase by 5 to 7%. The prices of ground calcium carbonate (GCC) will increase by 5%. The natural gas trigger price for the kaolin energy surcharge program will continue to be $5.00 per MMBtu for all non-contract customers.

Cost increases in logistics, mining, chemicals, fuel and power are key factors in this decision. Despite Imerys' continual improvement programs and cost reductions to mitigate these effects, the price increases are necessary to achieve a sustainable pigment business.

IMERYS Pigments for Paper and Packaging is committed to investing in new products and technology to continue to be the market leader in pigment products for paper. Our goal is to offer our customers cost-effective and value-added solutions.

IMERYS Pigments for Paper and Packaging is a world leading producer of white pigments, manufacturing kaolin, ground calcium carbonate (GCC) and precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC). The business group serves the needs of the international paper industry and employs 2,414 people, operates 47 industrial sites in 19 countries and represents 23% of Imerys' sales.