DRAPERY PRICES.

Taihape Daily Times, 3 January 1919, Page 5

DRAPERY PRICES.

SLOW FALL PREDICTED

A leading ChrLstchureb draper stated that his investigations of trade conditions led him to believe that prices generally would fall, but that the fall would be very gradual, and it may be fairly long before it is. very appreciable. He expresses an opinion that it is impossible to say what will happen to some lines. Oilcloths-, for instance, went up to almost fabulous prices, because materials used in their manufacture were in demand for use in trenches. It is presumed that the Imperial Government has enormous stocks, which may be placed on the

open market soon. The Canterbury Warehousemen's Association has issued a circular to its members warning them that prices cannot, fall for at least twelve months. This statement is based on information supplied to members of the association by manufacturers and their Home buyers. The statement is supported by the following reasons: (1) The cotton crop, estimated at first to show a largo surplus, has proved the lowest on record. (2) Stocks of raw cotton held in England are very small. (3) Wages will continue very high. Considerable labour troubles are expected, a strike of 100,000 operatives having already taken place.

(4) An enormous demand exists for manufactured goods in all parts of the world, which will increase tremendously from those parts most adversely affected by war conditions.