Sandvik has now fully implemented its intended price increase of up to 20% on all forms of stainless strip steel for razor blade manufacture, following a comprehensive review of raw material and manufacturing costs. The increase, which came into effect from 1 November 2007, is the first in recent years and the levels are all volume related. For a considerable period of time, the company has absorbed spiralling increases in raw material, fuel and energy costs, with little or no opportunity to adjust prices to end users. These costs coupled with rising carriage and distribution charges were key factors in the review and implementation of the new pricing levels by Sandvik.