Here is the way I see this whole thing.
Ilford has been very accommodating to photographers by offering special cuttings of seldom-used film sizes on an annual basis, they have also reintroduced a favorite "niche" film, the SFX 200 (I think), and because of this "can do" attitude I think we almost expect something "special" from this Ilford/Harman/Kentmere group.
I think it will take a while for Harman to completely evaluate what they have purchased. I think they WOULD consider making some of Kentmeres special papers again IF THE RAW PAPER STOCKS WERE AVAILABLE TO COAT ON. Making the paper requires a paper mill willing to make it, and in small enough quantity to be economically feasable to Harman.
I also suspect that Kentmere has a smaller coating line, and because of this, it may actually be possible to more easily make "specialty" papers in reasonable quantities, but this is speculation on my part. The economic savings of combining both companies JUST MIGHT result in many new or reissued products to please us finicky eaters. Lets just wait and see......... |