Processors hunt for resin as shortages continue Chevron Phillips' polyethylene plant in Old Ocean, Texas. Resin shortages are affecting North American processors as materials makers look to recover from the February ice storm that hit the Gulf Coast. Most resin makers have warned customers and placed force majeure sales limits because of their inability to produce at full rates. Delivery times also have been extended in many cases. Pressure for higher prices on most commodity resins is expected to continue in March and April. The shortages "have negatively impacted our delivery performance with customers," said Charles Sholtis, CEO of injection molder Plastic Molding Technology Inc. in El Paso, Texas. "We are working with our customers and suppliers to come up with alternative material solutions, since it appears to be a long-term issue with tight supply and high demand."