UK climbing equipment manufacturers are poised to increase their trade prices to retailers as a result of increased raw material costs. Some manufacturers have been trying to absorb the price hikes but it seems the break point has been reached and updated trade price lists have been distributed to retailers who are preparing to up prices to the end user. It seems that the cause of the price increase in down to supply and demand. Since trade barriers with China were relaxed the demand for metals from its booming economy has reduced stocks and forced prices up.