Glass and glazing industry must do more to support domestic market

The glass and glazing industry must do more to promote the long-term benefits of high performance products to homeowners if it is to secure future growth in the domestic market.

Despite a number of innovative products coming to the market, key industry figures believe more needs to be done to promote products with advanced energy performance.

Speaking in a recent report published by Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, Mark Catchpole of SWC Trade Frames said: “Product development and innovation is happening rapidly, and the energy performance that windows can deliver is getting better and better. 

However, what doesn’t seem to be happening is these products filtering into the market with any speed, and we, as an industry, should see this as a major point to address.”

The report, titled ‘Framing the debate: What does the future hold for the domestic glazing market?’, addresses challenges facing the domestic glazing market.

A key concern highlighted by H Jarvis is developers’ focus on low-cost products, rather than quality solutions with long term benefits. VEKA plc cites standard 70mm frame sizes as an obstacle, preventing the widespread adoption of triple-glazing in the UK. In Europe, the standard is now 82mm+ systems.

Capitalising on new trends 

Despite the number of challenges, those in the supply chain recognise a number of opportunities that the industry can capitalise on. 

As consumers move away from white PVCu frames, designers are increasingly specifying silver or dark grey frames which offer a premium appearance whilst offering the affordability of PVCu products. The growing demand for a wider range of finishes has the potential to create new revenue streams for the industry.

John Spiby, national sales manager – domestic products at Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, commented: “The latest Palmer Market Research report made for unsettling reading for those of us in the domestic glazing sector. While it predicts some growth in demand, the rate predicted is significantly lower than it was a year ago and there are clear challenges facing the industry.

However, it’s not all doom and gloom and, while demand from existing housing stock looks set to continue at the slow pace we have seen in recent years, the new build sector shows promise.

Within this report, we have spoken to a number of key figures from across the industry to gauge their thoughts on the current market and address some of the issues businesses face. It’s clear that the sector is going through a period of change, and while there are challenges to navigate, the opportunities for growth are promising.”

Download ‘Framing the debate: What does the future hold for the domestic glazing market?’

Contact:

Pilkington United Kingdom Limited,
Greengate Works,
Sherdley Road,
St. Helens,
Merseyside,
United Kingdom,
WA9 5 DZ

Phone: 01744 692000
Fax: 01744 692569

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