Late last week, the largest manufacturer of vinyl exam gloves worldwide announced it was no longer able to meet contractual obligations with customers due to the extraordinary cost and supply volatility currently characterizing the industry. After months of raising prices and readjusting delivery agreements, the company no longer could provide any guarantee of pricing or product without complete renegotiation of contracts.

This announcement is expected to have a dramatic effect on the entire industry, driving glove prices steeply upward as buyers compete to secure alternative supply sources.