Don Loepp

1 week ago | plasticsnews.com | Don Loepp |Frank Esposito

In the latest Polymer Points Live discussion, resin pricing trends for March and projections for April were reviewed, with a focus on the impact of tariffs, economic conditions, and global oil production. Recording below. Polypropylene prices dropped by 4 cents in March, reversing previous gains, while polystyrene rose by 2 cents despite stable benzene costs. PVC increased due to construction demand, though housing starts declined. Polyethylene and PET remained flat.

1 week ago | plasticsnews.com | Don Loepp |Frank Esposito

Resin prices moved in opposite directions in March, with polypropylene dropping four cents per pound and polystyrene rising two cents, said senior reporter Frank Esposito. He noted that industry experts warned future tariff changes and the U.S.’s reliance on benzene imports could further affect pricing for polystyrene. Don't miss the next Polymer Points Live, Tuesday, April 15 at 2 p.m. Letter to the Editor Do you have an opinion about this story?

1 week ago | plasticsnews.com | Don Loepp

After nearly four decades in the plastics industry — including 29 years leading his own B2B advertising and public relations firm — Greg Hannoosh is retiring, effective April 30, 2025. Mark Malloy, Hannoosh's business partner since 2021, will assume ownership and take over as president of Next Step Communications Inc., a firm Hannoosh founded in 1996.

2 weeks ago | plasticsnews.com | Don Loepp |Steve Toloken

The latest Plastics and Politics Live event tackled the growing tension over tariffs affecting the plastics industry. Recording below. PN’s Washington-based Assistant Managing Editor Steve Toloken explained that industry leaders have expressed concern over proposed U.S. tariffs and potential European Union retaliation, which could raise costs and hinder investment — particularly targeting plastics machinery and polyethylene.

2 weeks ago | plasticsnews.com | Don Loepp

President Donald Trump's new reciprocal tariff plan appears to exempt several key plastic resins, including PE, PP, PET and PVC, suggesting an effort to protect the U.S. resin trade from international retaliation. The Chemistry Industry Association of Canada welcomed the move, citing the importance of integrated North American supply chains, though concerns remain about broader economic impacts.