Dear Customer,

We would like to provide you with an important update regarding ongoing developments affecting the supply chain.

As you may be aware, the current geopolitical situation in the Middle East is continuing to create volatility across global markets. While we have previously communicated the potential for price increases, we are now beginning to see direct cost impacts in the form of additional surcharges being applied by a number of our manufacturing partners.

Unfortunately, these surcharges are outside of our control and are being introduced with immediate effect. As a result, we will need to pass on these additional costs. However, we want to assure you that:

• Any surcharges will be applied on a product-by-product basis
• We will only pass on increases where they are directly incurred
• We will continue to review all pricing carefully to minimise the impact on your business wherever possible
• Any applicable surcharges will be clearly communicated by our office at the point they arise against your orders

These additional costs are being applied by manufacturers as surcharges rather than permanent price increases due to the volatile and uncertain nature of the current situation.

Surcharges allow suppliers to respond more flexibly to rapid changes in costs such as raw materials, energy, and transport, without making long-term adjustments to standard pricing. This approach means that if conditions stabilise, these additional charges can be reduced or removed more quickly than formal price increases.

While this creates some short-term variability, it helps to ensure that any cost changes more accurately reflect real-time market conditions, rather than implementing broader permanent increases across all products.

Please note: This does differ from one manufacturer to another.

We remain committed to being as transparent as possible and will keep you informed of any further developments.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss specific products, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding.