February 28, 2007 Steris Corp. announced today that list prices for its healthcare segment products will increase by an average of nine percent as of May 1, 2007; the decision was made after an analysis of raw materials costs, which have continued to rise rapidly over the last two years.
The global cost of 304 steel has more than doubled from just under $1 per pound in January 2006 to $2.10 per pound in January 2007, and 316L stainless steel has risen from $2 per pound in January 2006 to nearly $3.20 per pound in January 2007 (www.meps.uk.com).
The base price for stainless steel has increased by 29 percent since March 2006 and the related surcharges have increased by 111 percent. These metals are key raw materials used to manufacture medical devices, specifically many well-known Steris products such as the Reliance line of decontamination products; Amsco sterilizers and surgical tables; Hausted patient transport systems; and surgical scrub sinks, warming cabinets, and consoles.