Moderate growth expected in highly competitive UK door and window fittings market

UK door and window fittings market has been through a period of major change over recent years, with significant consolidation of suppliers in some sub-sectors. According to a new report from AMA Research, the market for door and window fittings increased by around 2% in 2015, following similar annual growth rates in 2013 and 2014. The sector remains very competitive with a recovery in volumes partially offset by downward pressure on average prices and margins. 

While competitive, the market is also very fragmented in terms of product range, specification standards and routes to market, with product applications ranging from high specification commercial applications to retro-fit traditional style fittings. While the general public buy door and window fittings at the retail level, the bulk of the market is trade-based with supply into the door and window fabricator sector a key channel.

Locks and handles represent the two major product sectors, together accounting for over 50% of the fittings market. The locks market has remained relatively flat in recent years due to the slowdown in the economy and in the replacement window sector in particular, while the switch to electronic systems has impacted the market in some commercial applications.

Door closers were estimated to account for around 15% of the market in 2015 having grown in recent years. The majority of door closers are fitted into the non-residential sector with the private commercial and public buildings being key end-users, and the sector has particularly benefited from the introduction of higher specification products in recent years, with legislation such as the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) helping to boost demand.

In terms of supply structure, the market has seen some degree of consolidation over recent years, with the emergence of several major groups, though there are still many successful companies operating in specialist niche sectors.

“For 2016 and beyond, forecasts for the total door and window fittings market indicate modest but positive growth, based on improving housing and construction markets - though growth will be constrained by price pressure and strong competition”, comments Jane Tarver, AMA Research “In addition, further changes to building regulations and standards are likely to provide continuing opportunities for higher specification products into the medium-term and beyond”.

Current forecasts show further steady rates of value growth over the next 3-4 years.  The private sector is forecast to drive growth into the medium-term, particularly given the recent steady improvements in consumer confidence and spending, with the new housing market also driving demand. In addition, the commercial sector is growing strongly – particularly office construction. As a result, a key driver for growth is likely to be the trend towards higher specification products, particularly those which offer added security features and are aimed at the commercial sector.

The ‘Door and Window Fittings Market Report – UK 2015-2019 Analysis’ report is published by AMA Research, a leading provider of market research and consultancy services with over 25 years experience within the construction and home improvement markets.  The report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.