The ongoing war in the Middle East is not just a distant concern; it’s hitting home in unexpected ways—like your favorite Durex condoms. Reckitt Benckiser, the British company behind the brand, revealed that surging oil prices could cost them up to £150 million. That’s no small change when you’re trying to keep things safe and sound.
As if that news wasn’t jarring enough, Karex, the Malaysian condom manufacturer supplying 20% of the world’s condoms, is planning to raise prices by up to 30% in response to these effects. The materials used in condom production, such as ammonia, ethanol, and silicone oil, are linked to the petrochemical industry, making them vulnerable to shifts in oil prices.
So, what does this all translate to for consumers? Put simply, your go-to protection might come with a heavier price tag sooner than you think. It’s a bit ironic that, during tough times, staying safe in the bedroom will hit your wallet harder. Are we prepared for a love inflation crisis?
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
