Salt Supply Challenge

Friday, September 07, 2018

This upcoming season is shaping up to be one of the most challenging winters yet. A multitude of factors are leading to a supply shortfall. Here’s what we know today:

• Last season was a demanding winter. Precipitation was consistent throughout the winter and an unexpected ice storm in April spanned several days which depleted most stockpiles throughout North America.

• A labour dispute at one salt mine led to a 3-month strike. This labour shortage has undoubtedly affected the amount of salt allocated to the landscape and commercial markets.

• Another mine is undergoing significant repairs, leading to production delays which affect the supply available to our commercial market.

• The US market is contributing to Canadian supply issues due to the strong American dollar which is directing supply away from the Southern Ontario market.

What does this mean for you?

• Draglam Salt has taken every effort to secure salt for this coming season. However, salt from unconventional sources inevitably comes at a higher cost. We are doing our best to find efficiencies and have been working throughout the summer to secure supply.

For another perspective on the salt shortage, visit https://horttrades.com/salt-inventory-shortage-prepare-yourself-and-your-customers.

At Draglam Salt, we know that salt is essential to ensure safety, and we take our responsibility seriously. We encourage you to pass on this update to your customers and communicate with them regularly to ensure they are aware of the situation.

We are committed to navigating this challenging season ahead with the support of our suppliers and customers. In the coming weeks, you’ll find out more about the status of the market supply, the look and feel of rock salt from all over the world, and the prices you need to secure contracts.

We look forward to partnering with you to conquer Winter 2019.

Sincerely,

The Draglam Salt Team