Surging prices for raw materials are leading to higher costs for companies from home builders to clothing makers. Lately it has been hard to find a commodity not rising in price. Wheat, copper, wood pulp, crude oil and corn have all rebounded from the depths of last spring’s economic lockdowns. Lumber prices are more than 75% higher than the pre-pandemic record.
When the cruise industry is back to full operation in North America, Royal Caribbean will be the largest brand, having moved past Carnival Cruise Line. Royal Caribbean brand’s estimated annual passenger capacity will be more than three million passengers in the North American market compared to Carnival’s at just short of three million. Norwegian will be third largest, followed by Disney and newcomer Virgin. Princess will be the largest operator in the premium market.
