The sharp decline in oil prices over the last two months is now helping curb PVC prices. Comprised of ethylene derivatives, PVC prices are highly correlated with the price of oil. Last month alone, PVC costs dropped 4%, and further relief may be ahead since PVC pricing typically lags behind fluctuations in oil.

Still, why justified, this optimism must be taken in perspective. PVC prices remain up over 17% from January 1, and changes, while they may come, will take between 90-120 days to effect glove prices because of the long ordering process.