The
UK domestic kitchen furniture market experienced steady growth in
the 2002-2007 period, reaching a market size of £1390m by the end
of the period. However, the overall market value declined in both
2008 and 2009. The total market for kitchen furniture is estimated
to have reached £880m in 2009, a decline of 12% on the preceding
year, but is estimated to show modest growth of 3.6% in 2010 and
further annual growth to 2014 to reach a level of £1087m by the
end of the period. Furniture will continue to account for around
76% of the market.
The kitchen furniture market comprises
furniture, worktops and sinks, with furniture accounting for 76%
of the market in value terms, whilst worktops account for 14% and
sinks for 10%. Worktops have gradually gained market share in
recent years in line with the trend towards higher value products
in this sector. The market is at the mature stage of its product
lifecycle. Consumer awareness is high and purchasing decisions
tend to be based on design, colour and materials. Features such as
soft-closing doors and drawers, sophisticated lighting and
additional electrical appliances such as televisions and coffee
machines are increasing in popularity.
Demand for design-oriented features in the
kitchen has increased the importance of both worktops and sinks
which can create high visual impact. High gloss laminates, solid
surfaces and granite have all increased in popularity, although
the affordability of laminates means that they are likely to
continue to dominate the market in the foreseeable future.
The popularity of dishwashers has contributed
towards changing the use of a sink from an area simply for washing
up, to a multi-functional work centre, which incorporates features
for washing, food preparation and drainage. Multi-functional sinks
are widely available, with a range of different features, such as
strainer and draining bowls in varying depths, a variety of
chopping boards, larger sinks, as well as associated products such
as pull out spray rinse taps. In general, the focus on food
preparation and overall design is helping to promote the growth of
the sinks market.
Imports of kitchen furniture increased
significantly in 2007 and to a lesser extent in 2008, reaching
£188m in 2008, compared to £162m in 2007 and accounted for around
19% of the furniture market by 2008. Germany (34%) and Italy (30%)
are the major sources of imports and Alno, the German based
company, is a major exporter to the UK. However, imports are
forecast to fall significantly in 2009, possibly to around £150m,
a decline of 20% and much larger than the fall in the market as a
whole.
