Paper Outlook — Another Notch in the Market's Belt

While the consolidation saga continues to take center stage, the rise in paper prices—and the availability of certain grades—still garners most of the commercial printing industry's attention.

Printers continue to report that prices are increasing, and that paper is available, according to Andy Paparozzi, chief economist for the National Association of Printing Leadership (NAPL). Each month, the association surveys printers on the availability and pricing of various grades of paper. In March, 81.4 percent of those polled indicated that prices were higher in comparison to prices three months prior. And 83.5 percent said that paper is still available.