LG Chem is South Korea's second largest battery maker and one of the main providers to computer makers for battery packs used in laptops. Due to a recent fire in one its most important plants three weeks ago, the industry is starting to feel the repercussions. Large manufacturers like Dell and HP have had to rely on alternative providers to battle the price drive, but despite their best efforts battery pack prices are still going up.
It is also likely that other companies that depend on LG Chem will be affected. Asustek, for example, is said to take the most impact with up to 40% of its shipments for the second quarter getting affected. LG Chem is actively working to get back on their feet, but have expressed that it'll be two to three months before the plant is up and running again.