ers dealing with bulk materials could see the energy costs associated with their use of flexible bulk containers and loading hoppers rise in 2011.
Speaking to Packaging News, British Plastics Federation director-general Peter Davis warned that the price and availability of raw materials, as well as energy, will be a major concern this year.
He told the publication: "Big hikes in energy prices are expected and the UK's dependence on energy imports and slowness in developing new energy generation will be publicly exposed if bad weather causes industry power cuts.
"In December, many factories were ordered to switch to generators to save gas supplies."
A number of economists have expressed concern that the British economy could be derailed by increases in commodity prices.
These worries have filtered through to prime minister David Cameron, who is even considering introducing an offset for fuel to curb the impact of the VAT rise in certain industries.
Typical Guttridge equipment used in the….industry includes; Hoppers – mobile loading hoppers – flexible bulk containers
