SUMMARY OF REPORT CONTENTS

           UK Door & Window Fittings Market 2006-2015 (£m MSP)

Within our definition, the market for door and window fittings is estimated at around £407m in 2010, representing a decline on 2009. In 2010, the market is estimated to have declined by 3%, reflecting very difficult trading conditions in most key end-use sectors. However, this decline is much lower than previous years and represents some degree of market stabilisation – but the market has still declined by over 25% in current value terms in the 2007-10 period.

In terms of product mix within the market, the two largest sectors are locks and handles, which account for around 60% of the market by value.

The door & window fittings market is closely linked to the door and window fabrication and installation market and the glazing industry in general. In 2011, the UK market for doors and windows is experiencing serious difficulties, arising in part from the maturity of the market, but also as a result of economic circumstances and the effects of the financial crisis.

The supply and distribution structure remains very fragmented, complex and competitive. The sector has seen some consolidation, but there is still scope for considerable further rationalisation. This seems likely given the desire of the large multinationals to expand, and given the very large number of smaller companies operating in many niche sectors.

Whilst the general public does buy door and window fittings at the retail level, the bulk of this market is trade-based and often a commodity sector. A reasonable share of the market is for retro-fit locks, handles or other hardware, making standard, traditional style fittings important in the product mix. There is also a sector of the market aimed at high specification developments (domestic and non-domestic), where styling and functionality are more strongly marketed. This sector is less price sensitive.

Whilst traditionally having a strong UK base in the Midlands, this market has now become global with a mix of UK and other European companies represented in the market, together with the growth of low-cost imports from the Far East.

Low profit margins have become a key feature of the market in general, due to a combination of saturated markets, increasing competition, an increase in low cost imports and high raw material prices. Distribution is fragmented with several key channels – fabricators and systems companies, DIY Multiples, Builders Merchants and Architectural Ironmongers all strong in the market and often serving specific key sectors.

Prospects for the door & window fittings market are closely linked to the performance of the door and window markets and the glazing industry in general. Over the next few years, our forecasts indicate a difficult market persisting in the replacement sector, which is likely to be affected by the restricted availability of credit and low house moving volumes (currently 50% down on 2007 levels). The gradual improvement indicated in the forecast assumes a steadily improving economic environment.