\n<\/p>\n
Both firms are also accelerating efforts to diversify their offerings and reduce reliance on the gas.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Helium prices have already been rising in recent years following Russia\u2019s war in Ukraine, which has tightened supplies from Russia, a key producer.<\/p>\n
Misty Daydream said it has doubled its range of non-helium products over the past\u00a0year, now making up about 20 per cent of its offerings.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Some designs use air-filled structures and creative assembly to mimic the look of floating balloons. However, such products can be more labour-intensive, meaning prices remain similar to helium-based options.<\/p>\n
SGballoons has similarly been turning to alternatives \u2013 helium products now make up\u00a0just\u00a040 per cent of its offerings, down from nearly 100 per cent about five years ago.<\/p>\n
It is also working with suppliers in Japan, China and the US to develop balloon materials that require less helium while maintaining lift, and improving its logistics, such as planning delivery routes more efficiently to cut transport costs.\u00a0<\/p>\n
For now, party businesses are taking a wait-and-see approach on pricing. But if costs continue to rise, consumers may eventually have to pay more for celebrations.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n