Romanian stationery industry research from GfK has revealed that the writing instruments market recorded a year on year value increase of 6% in August – September 2011.

Based on tracking figures from cash and carry and hypermarkets, this growth was driven by “last minute” Back to School (BTS) retail sales, with consumers spending more money at the beginning of September.

Coloring products (pencils, felt pencils and crayons), which account for 21% of the overall turnover, demonstrated the biggest value increase (12%) compared to the Back to School period in 2010. Ball point products registered a 6% rise and, in terms of volume, remain the most influential segment (27%). Felt pens (+16%), roller balls (+11%) and fountain pens (+9%) also experienced positive value increases. 

The marking category (markers, highlighters and overhead projector pens) witnessed a growth of 7%, while graphic pencils (-4%) and correction products (-8%) posted negative results.

Private label sales perform particularly well, increasing by 93% in value against last year.