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After the poor performance of the industry in 1999, both
manufacturers and retailers were hoping for more positive results in the
following years. In fact, quarterly sales were ahead throughout 2002 on a year
on year basis, although the quarterly data showed a gradual slowing in growth
throughout the year. The research findings suggest that total sales increased
by almost 5% (or £210m) in 2002, with producer prices being fairly static or
even declining within certain sectors, whilst sales in 2003 are estimated to
have grown by 4.1% (or £185m in value terms). Growth continued in 2004, with
sales increasing by 3.1% (or £145m in value terms). However, 2005 proved to be
an extremely poor year for the industry, with sales declining by around 4% and
several major companies going into liquidation.
Total sales of domestic furniture reached an estimated £4950m in
2006, compared to £4870m in 2005 and £5000m in 2004. Total industry sales
increased by 1.6% in 2006, with producer prices increasing by around 1-2% during
the year.
Sales of upholstery reached £1620m in 2006, compared to £1570m in
2005 and £1650m in 2004, accounting for 33% of the total market in 2006; this is
much higher than the 28% market share that this product group held in 1990.
It is estimated that sales of motion upholstery reached £235m in
2006, compared to £224m in 2005 and £232m in 2004; the share of the total
upholstered furniture market held by such products increased from 14.1% to 14.5%
during that period.
Imports of motion upholstery reached £58.6m (at Manufacturers’
Selling Prices) in 2006, compared to £50.9m in 2005 and £41.0m in 2004. It is
estimated that imports currently account for around 25% of the motion upholstery
market at the present time.
Sales of motion upholstery are estimated to reach £241m in 2007
and £252m in 2008, accounting for 14.7% of the total upholstery market in 2007
and 14.8% in the following year. Within that sector electrically operated
products are forecast to reach £24m in both years, accounting for around 10% of
the total motion upholstery sector.
Business and
Research Associates' “The UK
Market for Motion Upholstery – UK 2007” report is available in hard copy or
electronic format for £495 and can be ordered online at
www.amaresearch.co.uk
or by calling 0871 3103450.
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