2011 has brought new challenges for the exam glove industry.  Over the past 10 years, the overall trend of latex glove pricing has been down.  This came to a sudden stop in the 4th quarter of 2010.  Since then, latex and as a result latex gloves have risen sharply in price.   Why is this happening? There are 3 main causes for this. First is demand. China&India; are experiencing double digit increases in demand for all natural resources. This is 1/3 of the population of the world. In the past, these two countries used minimal resources in comparison to their population. As the economies of China&India develop further, we can expect them to use more resources of all kinds.   Latex production cannot keep up with demand. Latex is farmed in a similar fashion to maple syrup in this country. Land usage for these plantations is huge. As the societies in South East Asia develop, people use more land. Just as farm land in this country is now used for housing, manufacturing, golf courses and shopping centers, land usage in SE Asia is now changing. Fewer plantations are being planted and maintained.    Finally, the weak dollar effects all imported products. Small fluctuations in the value of the dollar, effects the overall price for gloves. We are all feeling the pressure of the higher latex costs. Now, what is Spina Dental Supplies doing to help our customers & potential customers?   First, Spina Dental will continue to offer latex gloves at the lowest price possible. Second, we are diligently investigating all latex alternatives. We are increasing our supply of synthetic and nitrile gloves. We are working with our manufacturers, Sempermed & Kimberly Clark to offer the best pricing our high level of customer service will allow.   Be assured, Spina Dental will continue to be your wisest choice for all your glove needs. We are here for our customers. Please contact me or any customer representative if you have a question or concern.   Craig Chrisman   ...read more