European spot general purpose polystyrene prices have been quoted in a wide range amid concerns from some sellers about high stock levels, according to industry sources.
GPPS spot prices were heard in a wide range of Eur1,200-1,350/mt ($1,338-1,505/mt) DDP Europe this week.
Traders said prices at the upper end of the range are representative of prices in Northwest Europe, while lower prices are representative of southern and eastern Europe.
GPPS demand improved in May and June, following double-digit declines in January-April due to sky-high prices in styrene, making downstream products expensive.
However, now styrene prices have risen, demand has picked up, at least in Northwest Europe.
Nevertheless, some producers and distributors are concerned about stock levels as Europe enters the summer season, sources said.
Polystyrene demand typically falters in July and August as businesses close for summer.
A trader said earlier in the month that the main problem in June "will be distributors who want to get rid of their stock before summer closure."
As a result, prices in southern and eastern Europe were at a discount to Northwest Europe due to more aggressive selling in these regions due to stock drawdowns, sources said.
These areas also typically see higher import volumes, adding to downward pressure on prices.
S&P Global Platts last assessed the GPPS spot price Wednesday at Eur1,310/mt FD NWE.
