Energy and raw material prices, which have been exploding since the fall of 2021 and are continuing to rise due to the war in Ukraine, are galvanic companies in the German electroplating industry under enormous pressure. As a key technology, electroplating makes a decisive contribution to the supply capability and success of the manufacturing sector. However, these are now in serious jeopardy, because galvanics in particular, which are predominantly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and in many cases family-run, have their backs to the wall.
Cost increases can no longer be absorbed by SMEs in the electroplating industry. The current cost developments in the energy and raw materials sectors, the end of which is not in sight, are forcing first and foremost the operators of industrial and contract electroplating shops to take action. Temporary material or energy cost surcharges could be a solution to counter the severe distortions on the raw material markets.