NEW- Heat generation from Biomass in UK is well below EU average

Renewable technologies in total provide about 4% of the UK’s electricity and, currently, biomass in the UK provides about 1% of heat generation in the UK, which is well below the EU average. Biomass is material of biological origin and can be either plant or animal matter, although in the context of burning biomass to provide energy for heat and electricity it is likely to be plant matter, such as wood from forestry or processing,  that is the main feedstock.
This report reviews the size and prospects for biomass, comparing developments in the UK and other EU markets, evaluating key drivers and barriers to growth, impact of Government initiatives and subsidies, leading suppliers etc. Longer term growth forecasts up to 2020 are also evaluated, including the possible impact of the change in Government. more 

Overview of key European electrical wholesale markets published

-NEW- Market for ground and air source heat pumps set for significant growth

-NEW- Average growth rates of 1-3% expected for adhesives market as economy recovers

-NEW- New report looks at the Roofing Contractors market

Major new initiatives set to expand the investment in wind power technology

Technological developments offer opportunities for future growth in Pump Market- 12/07/2010

The UK pump market has struggled in recent years, and short term performance is likely to continue to be impacted by the difficult economic situation. The over-riding and increasingly significant issue of pricing pressure in a number of low-mid market sectors is also likely to constrain growth in the market. Technological developments which have improved the operational efficiencies of the pumps, reduced operating costs and educed the noise levels offer opportunities for market growth in the future as economic conditions allow. more

-NEW- Good growth anticipated in the medium term for Special Needs Bathroom equipment- 07/07/2010

With an ageing UK population, there is a strong trend towards inclusive design, particularly in the UK bathroom industry. As a result, special needs bathroom products suitable for use by all users are likely to exhibit significant market potential in years to come. The UK special needs bathroom market had been growing in volume and value until the impact of the recent economic recession, but like other higher value consumer goods has been under considerable pressure more recently, resulting from the difficult new housebuilding sector and also the home improvement sector. However, in the medium-longer term as the economy improves and UK consumers become more diverse in terms of age and ability, good growth is expected in this market sector. more

Commercial Sector offers good potential for Underfloor Heating Market- 05/07/2010

Underfloor Heating Market - UK 2010-2014

The UK underfloor heating (UFH) market is classified into three product types for the purpose of this report, consisting of water based, electric and combined heating systems and associated controls. Figures relate to materials only and exclude installation work. Education and health were the fastest growing sectors in this market in 2009 thanks to increased government spending commitments, but these markets are likely to decline once cuts are implemented by the coalition government. However, the commercial market remains largely untouched by UFH, and offers good potential for manufacturers and suppliers, with a relatively low take up of products in the office and leisure sectors in particular. more

Tentative improvements in the housebuilding and housemoving sectors holds out hope for recovery - 01/07/2010

Recovery in Builders Merchants Market anticipated later in 2010 - 28/06/2010

Builders and Plumbers Merchants Market - UK 2010-2014

Merchants reported much tougher trading conditions during 2008 and 2009. Some companies have undertaken strategies to help them weather the storm, including job losses, branch closures and cancellation or delay of new building work or refurbishment. With the background of a recovering building and construction industry however, the merchants’ market is expected to begin recovery later in 2010 and into 2011 and grow to be worth over £12bn in 2014. more

Student Accommodation sector continues to offer good prospects as institutions strive to meet rising demand for quality accommodation - 23/06/2010

The report specifically reviews construction activity in the higher education sector, focusing on the structure of the university system, the impact of rising student numbers, new building  plans and the growth of the student accommodation sector. The report also provides an overview of different sources of university capital funding and current capital building programmes taking place in UK universities. Prospects beyond the General Election are uncertain as capital spending plans will come under greater pressure, but the Student Accommodation sector continues to offer good prospects as institutions strive to meet rising demand from UK and overseas students for quality accommodation - while also replacing some of the outdated stock built in the 1960s / early 1970s.  The current state of the university estate and infrastructure backlog is also assessed, together with an overview of leading construction contractors, specifiers and consortia operating in the higher education sector, while the different funding models for student accommodation provision are also reviewed. more

Recovering demand for office and retail space should underpin some recovery in interior refurbishment - 09/06/2010

Health of the construction sector influences the utilities connections market - 08/06/2010

Utilities Connections Market - UK 2010-2014

Incorporating all activities and processes involved with the connection of gas, electricity, water and telecoms to both new and existing premises through the national networks, the utilities connections market includes domestic, commercial, industrial, public sector and retail schemes, etc.  The market is subject to a number of influences with the health of the construction sector remaining of paramount importance.  Due to the downturn in key construction sectors such as housing, offices and industrial over the last 18 months-2 years, the connection market has performed less well than in previous years with both gas and electricity connections declining into 2008-09. more

15% of the UK's energy to be derived from renewable sources by 2020 - 04/06/2010

Increased reliance on imported gas and renewables reflect shift in energy supply patterns - 02/06/2010

Focus shifts from recovering household waste towards commercial and industrial waste recycling - 01/06/2010

Bedroom Furniture market likely to remain under pressure in the short to medium term - 24/05/2010

Domestic Bedroom Furniture Market - UK 2010-2014

The Bedroom Furniture market is expected to remain under pressure in the short to medium term, reflecting factors such as pressure on margins which are being squeezed by increased raw materials cost, also continued pressure on margins from imports,  and the generally difficult economic climate for consumers and businesses alike. However, in the medium to longer term the increasing, also the aging population is likely to boost demand for products in the mid to upper sector of the market, in addition to a small but rising demand for products in niche sectors, such as furniture adapted to meet the requirements of disabled consumers. more

Issue 3 of the Housebuilding Forecasts Bulletin released - 13/05/2010

The 3rd issue of the “Housebuilding and RMI Forecasts Bulletin GB” is now available providing a quarterly review of the domestic construction sector. The bulletin contains the very latest statistics and information on housebuilding, together with medium and longer term forecasts. The information covers Great Britain and includes regional statistics and forecasts for England, Wales and Scotland. Also included are data and forecasts for the English regions. more 

Issue 11 of the Construction Forecasts Bulletin released - 10/05/2010

Non-Domestic Construction and RMI Forecasts Bulletin _ Great Britain: Issue 11 April 2010

This quarterly publication is based on the company’s in-depth knowledge of the construction and building products industries, derived from both their extensive report archive and commercial projects, combined with statistical material and interviews with leading organisations in the construction market. The bulletin is designed to provide detailed coverage of current issues and key factors likely to determine the future progress of the industry into the medium term.  more

Medium term prospect more optimistic for prefabricated frame and panel building system market - 10/05/2010

Prefabricated Frame and Panel Building Systems Market - UK 2010-2014

This unique report is part of AMA's range of reports covering offsite manufacturing / MMC. The report reviews key sectors such as Timber Frame, Housing, Light Steel Framing, SIPs, Concrete Products etc., assessing market size, sector mix, key application areas and supply and distribution structures. While market conditions have been tough in 2009, underlying medium term prospects are more optimistic, driven by a recovery in the housebuilding market and a drive towards higher quality and sustainability issues. more

The sale of garden products on the internet sustained despite poor weather and the economic downturn - 28/04/2010

This new, unique, report from AMA Research reviews the fragmented and rapidly growing Internet market for garden products.  The total UK Internet garden products market is complex in structure and includes a mix of specialist garden product 'e-tailers'  as well as non-garden specialists (such as Argos, DIY Multiples etc) operating transactional websites  offering garden products. It is estimated that the market was worth over £150m in 2009, with specialist e-tailers accounting for around 45% of the market. The report reviews the product mix via online retailers, highlighting differences with the overall garden products market together with differences between the major online retailers. Whilst the rate of growth is anticipated to slow as the market matures, the market is expected to  increase by around 100% reach a value of over £300m by 2014. Prospects will be driven by a combination of general consumer attitudes to online purchasing, as well as overall garden product market performance. In particular, this market is highly dependent on the weather as well as the economic climate, although the gardening industry tends to cope well with economic downturns and does not suffer as badly as some other higher value consumer durable sectors. more

Ongoing investment will bring further growth  for the housing association market - 23/04/2010

By 2014, the housing association market is expected to own around 3.2 billion dwellings, a growth of 16% from 2009. The housing association market is therefore expected to experience further growth between 2009 and 2014 as continued investment in new properties and large scale transfers from local authorities boost dwelling stock, in part reflecting the underlying socio-economic and demographic shifts. This will be despite a number of prevailing negative factors, such as the high level of public sector debt and a continued squeeze on UK employment levels. more

Medium term prospects for urban regeneration remain uncertain until after General Election - 20/04/2010

Government  regeneration projects have been a major positive influence on the construction market over the last decade, resulting in substantial improvements in key urban areas across the UK.  Private sector investment has been attracted into regeneration since 2001, but funding is now much more difficult to attract in the current climate. However, major schemes are still underway, with affordable housing a cornerstone of key projects, while the Olympics development and legacy is still in progress. Other infrastructure projects which are linked into Regeneration schemes are also in place, though the medium term outlook for Government financing remains uncertain until after the General Election. more

 Lack of available building land set to sustain the flats and apartments market when recession eases - 14/04/2010

Flats and Apartments Market - UK 2010-2014

There has been a significant rise in the percentage of flats and apartments built in recent years, which now account for around 48% of newbuild homes. However, share has levelled out in 2008/09 due primarily to over-supply of apartments in many Northern urban centres. In the medium term, however, volumes are expected to recover due to a combination of the lack of available building land and the need for more affordable housing – particularly in England. more

2011 to see consolidation in Bathroom Market as consumer confidence and housebuilding levels improve 13/04/2010

The UK bathroom products market had been growing in volume and value until the impact of the recent economic recession, but like other higher value consumer goods has been under considerable pressure more recently, resulting from the difficult new housebuilding sector and also the home improvement sector. Forecasts indicate that in 2010, the economic downturn will continue to have a negative impact on this market, with any improvement unlikely until towards the end of the year. It is anticipated that 2011 will be period of consolidation as consumer confidence and housebuilding levels improve. more

Prospects for sales of garden products reasonably optimistic in the medium term 13/04/2010

 Replacement door and window market faces major challenges in 2010 13/04/2010

Domestic Replacement Door and Window Market - UK 2010-2014

The UK market for replacement domestic doors and windows is facing major challenges in 2010. The market is large, but mature and volumes are declining in both the private and public sectors. The market is now rapidly adapting to meet the issues of sustainability in terms of product performance, energy-efficiency and general material recycling etc, which reflects a much wider awareness of the environmental impact of the glazing industry. more  

Potential recovery in housebuilding and MoD construction offers some opportunities in short to medium term

The Wall Cladding market has experienced substantial decline in 2008-09, reflecting the rapid fall in new work in key end-use markets. Offices, housebuilding, retail and industrial sectors have all been hit hard, but public sector work has helped offset the worst effects of the downturn to some extent. 2010 is set to be  a difficult year, but a steady recovery in housebuilding / apartments, together with sustained funding in MoD housing, education, student accommodation, healthcare etc, offers some opportunities in the short -medium term.  Longer term prospects will be dependent on the timing and speed of recovery in construction activity in the speculative offices, retail and warehousing markets. more

 Electrical wholesale market expected to return to growth after difficult trading period

The electrical wholesale market has experienced difficult trading conditions in recent years, reflecting the poor economy.  The market is expected to return to average rates of growth of 3-5% once the economy recovers, boosted by the demand for additional housing. Factors supporting the market include high levels of government capital expenditure, particularly in health and education, growth in specialist markets, allowing greater differentiation and added value, and evolving legislation leading to a requirement for higher specification products. Factors negatively affecting market growth include low levels of construction, particularly new build, low raw material prices, increased price competition, growing competition from competitive channels and longer product life reducing the replacement market. more

Energy Efficient Lighting Market - UK 2010-2014

Growth in the greater lighting products market is constrained by the relative maturity of the sector. However, energy saving lighting has expanded in line with the focus on environmental concerns, specifically the use of energy and minimising carbon emissions which has now been given priority status by legislators within the UK and EU. more

New report throws light on issues surrounding PFI in the UK

PFI Issues - UK 2010-2014

Whilst private sector funding of public sector projects can take the form of Public Private Partnerships (PPP’s), the report specifically focuses on PFI which is characterised by the transfer of risk from the public sector to the private sector, effectively removing assets from the public sector balance sheet. The Private Finance Initiative has evolved to become a major source of funding for capital sector schemes, currently accounting for between 10-15% of total capital investment in public services though has been significantly affected by the global financial crisis. more

Longer term remains positive for the UK lighting market

The lighting market is a relatively mature market and is largely reliant on replacement purchases usually resulting in moderate growth or decline in line with the economy.  However, legislative changes resulting from environmental pressures have created added value in the market, supporting overall average prices in the last few years.  As a result 2008 witnessed an improvement in the market, in contrast to many other consumer goods but subsequently the recession drove a market decline of 10% in 2009, and it is forecast to fall a further 4% in 2010.  more

Issue 2 of Housebuilding and RMI Forecasts Bulletin published

Providing a 10 year appraisal (2003-2013), the bulletin provides analysis of the overall housebuilding market, including starts and completions, construction output levels, new work and RMI. The private and public sectors are reviewed in greater detail with output and new orders analysed over the last 2-5 years on a quarterly and moving annual total basis (MAT) and a similar analysis for starts and completions since Q4 2003, along with exploration of key factors influencing the recent sector performance and future trends. more

The DIY market is already experiencing some recovery and longer term prospects are relatively optimistic due to the fundamental lack of housing supply within the UK, as well as the fact that people will always have a requirement to update and improve their homes. Despite the market being relatively mature, several of the major retailers are looking to expand their store networks, which should provide some growth from new sales space. more

Difficult times for the tool hire market in 2009, but recovery in housing sector may offer brighter prospects ahead 

Tool Hire Market - UK 2010-2014

The UK tool hire market has experienced very difficult trading conditions in 2008-09, reflecting the major downturn in construction activity. Housebuilding has started to show some recovery in activity since mid-2009, while sustained government expenditure in health, education and transport have partly mitigated the downturn in offices, retail and industrial sectors. Repair and maintenance budgets are also under pressure and prospects for recovery in 2010 will be influenced by consumer confidence and spending on home improvements which could improve if the recent recovery in the housing market is maintained and unemployment levels do not increase significantly. The sector has also seen some major restructuring programmes in 2009 as the major hire companies continue to review the profitability of their branch networks. more  

 Limited opportunities for growth anticipated in the shower controls and enclosures market for 2010 - 2011

Shower Market - UK 2010-2014

The shower controls and enclosures market has been through a difficult period 2008 and 2009, but 2010/11 should offer some limited opportunities for growth as the housebuilding sector begins to recover, and as consumer confidence improves later in 2010 and through 2011. Shower controls is likely to get some impetus from the housebuilding sector while the enclosure, screen and tray sector may remain under pressure from the shift to the "wet room" or "wet area" concept in the RMI sector. more   

Domestic decking market performs relatively well in a difficult climate

Domestic Decking and Landscaping Materials Market - UK 2010-2014

The domestic decking and landscaping materials market was estimated at over £900m in 2009. Hard landscaping has experienced a more difficult climate in 2009, though decking has performed relatively well given the subdued market conditions. Prospects for 2010 are uncertain, though there are tentative signs of recovery as homeowners look to upgrade their existing homes rather than move house. more

High consumer interest fails to relieve pressure on the Domestic Kitchen Furniture Market

Domestic Kitchen Furniture Market - UK 2010-2014

The kitchen furniture market has been under severe pressure from the deteriorating housebuilding and home improvement markets. Consumer interest remains high, but with low levels of consumer confidence the market is likely to remain constrained over the short to medium term. The return to growth of the housebuilding sector, and an improving unemployment situation over the medium term, should stimulate the market and offer growth opportunities again. more

Variable performance between sectors of Plant Hire market indicates different market influences

New edition of the Construction Forecasts Bulletin released

Non-Domestic Construction and RMI Forecasts Bulletin _ Great Britain: Issue 10 February 2010

The non-domestic construction market including all new work and RMI was valued at an estimated £75.4bn at current prices in 2008; however results for Q1-Q3 2009 now indicate output values beginning to decline with total output for Q1-Q3 at only 66% of 2008 total, suggesting a total for 2009 which is forecast to be more than 12% down on 2008. more

Impact of likely cutbacks in public sector construction will vary between sectors

In 2009, the public sector has helped underpin the construction sector, partially offsetting the worst effects of the downturn in housebuilding and private sector developments. Investment programmes, such as Building Schools for the Future and healthcare, have been maintained but uncertainty is growing over the medium term prospects beyond the current spending programme up to 2011. Whichever party forms the next government after the Spring 2010 Election, there will be inevitably some cuts in the major capital spending areas, with building programmes likely to suffer, but the impact is likely to vary between sectors with some programmes likely to be less affected than others. more 

-NEW- New report from AMA considers the kitchen and bathroom worktop market in the UK

Recent years have seen a blurring of the distinction between the kitchen and other living areas within the home, particularly in the higher priced sector of the housing market and the luxury apartment sector. In these locations the kitchen has become a place for socialising, entertaining and relaxing, as well as somewhere for cooking and washing up. Consequently, the focus on the layout and design of the kitchen has increased in importance, with an emphasis on seating areas and workstations, e.g. large sinks, island and peninsular units etc. Consumers willing to devote a high level of expenditure to a new kitchen are spending a larger share of their budget on sinks and worktops, placing more importance on appliances, accessories and elements such as lighting.  more  

 -NEW- 1st edition of new report on the Damp Proof Course and Membrane market in the UK

DPC Geosynthetics Market - UK 2009-2013

An increasing proportion of housebuilding completions are flats and apartments. This has led to a decline in the volume of DPC (Damp Proof Course) and DPM (Damp Proof Membranes), and overall floor area is reduced as more dwellings exist under a single roof, restricting market growth. However, the continuing shortage of land will mean that there is likely to be a greater need to build on contaminated sites in the future with a consequent requirement to protect health and safety through the use of membranes to provide a barrier against harmful gases such as radon, carbon dioxide, methane and hydrocarbon.  more

Potential for long term growth in UK garden rooms market

Garden Rooms Market - UK 2009-2013

The garden rooms and buildings market is relatively new and, consequently, had been experiencing good levels of growth until relatively recently. The potential for growth is limited by the number of households with adequate sized gardens. However, with only an estimated 200,000 garden rooms and buildings already installed in the UK, and approximately 15 million gardens, there is plenty of scope for long-term growth. more

Increased output in construction markets in South East Region not expected before mid 2011

Construction in the South East Region

The prospects for construction output in the South East Region for 2009 onwards tend towards pessimism against a background of declining new orders and site starts in 2008-09. Current indications are that output will decline by around 9% in value in 2009 followed by further decline in 2010 to a value of around £33bn. Returning confidence is currently expected in the middle part of 2010 but this will not begin to feed into increased construction output until 2011, followed by moderate growth to 2013 when South East construction output is expected to reach £36bn. more

Electrical Wholesalers and Direct Sales continue to dominate Electrical Products Distribution 18/11/2009

Distribution of Electrical Products in Building Applications - UK 2009-2013

The overall market for electrical products used in building applications is estimated at just over £12bn in 2008. Electrical wholesalers and direct sales are estimated to account for the largest share of the market at 26% each, specialist distributors also have a significant share, estimated at around 16%, while the retail sector and the trade catalogue/internet distributor channel are also significant. more

Investment by NHS Trusts in England supports continued RMI activity 13/11/2009

Healthcare RMI  Market - UK 2009-2013

Growth in the market for healthcare RMI is primarily underpinned by investment in buildings and M & E maintenance by NHS Trusts in England, which account for around 60% of RMI output. NHS Trusts from the other three countries account for around 15% of demand, while independent hospitals and private nursing homes also have significant RMI budgets. more

Capital spending boost provides some growth in Central Government Construction Market 10/11/2009

Growth rates in Central Government construction output have been relatively stable over the last few years. However, while the downturn in the economy is expected to have a negative impact on the growth of the overall construction market, the Central Government sector is receiving a boost over the short to medium term from the Government’s decision to bring forward £3bn of capital spending to 2009-10 from 2010-11. While the programme of redevelopments in some sectors such as Central Government Offices is now largely over, some growth is expected to continue over the next few years, supported by government investment in increasing the provision of prison accommodation, improvements to the Fire and Rescue Services, substantial investment in defence accommodation and developments in connection with the 2012 Olympics. more

Positive attitudes towards wood flooring offers hope for longer term prospects 05/11/2009

Wood & laminate floorcoverings have experienced a significant fall in demand since 2007 - the value of the market declining by around 20% in the 2008 /2009 period. Recovery in the market in the medium term will be restrained, given the uncertainties in the underlying economy and employment prospects. Consumer confidence remains fragile and difficult conditions in many non-residential sectors will undermine the speed of any recovery in the sector. In the longer term, however, prospects will be more influenced by attitudes towards wood flooring which still appear relatively positive in all key market sectors more

Internet Plumbing Market shows good levels of growth 4/11/2009

Internet Plumbing and Heating Market UK 2009-2013

The Internet plumbing market has shown exceptional levels of growth over the last five years. A growing number of UK households have Internet access and more consumers have the confidence and knowledge to buy online. Forecasts indicate that in the short term the Internet plumbing market will continue to grow, albeit at a more constrained pace. This growth reflects the impact of the current economic recession balanced by the fact that consumers will look to the Internet to find the best prices for their particular plumbing requirements.  The number of new Internet ‘start-ups’ in the plumbing market is likely to show an increase, as more companies realise the benefits of trading online. The number of established plumbing suppliers that also offer an online presence will continue to grow.  more

Future sales in the Electrical generating Sets market likely to be motivated by the export trade 29/10/2009

While the overall genset market has been adversely impacted by the global financial crisis and downturn in construction 2008-09, it is likely that low level recovery in the long term will provide some opportunities for manufacturers. The UK genset industry is likely to be motivated by the development of the export trade, with niche sector growth opportunities including utility and infrastructure power for emerging countries, mobile telecommunications networks, and significant demand in the global power generation and oil and gas sectors. more

1st edition of new Housebuilding Forecasts Bulletin published 21/10/2009

Providing a 10 year appraisal (2003-2013), the bulletin provides analysis of the overall housebuilding market, including starts and completions, construction output levels, new work and RMI. The private and public sectors are reviewed in greater detail with output and new orders analysed over the last 2-5 years on a quarterly and moving annual total basis (MAT) and a similar analysis for starts and completions since Q4 2003, along with exploration of key factors influencing the recent sector performance and future trends. more

Latest edition of non-domestic Construction Forecasts Bulletin published 16/10/2009

Construction Forecasts Bulletin - UK 2009-2013 Edition 9

Public finances are moving further up the political agenda into Q3 2009 with increasing debate amongst the main political parties regarding the future managing of government debt levels and the ability to fund current construction programmes into the medium term – an issue set to increase further as we approach the 2010 General Election. more

Increase in energy efficient products driven by legislative changes 14/10/2009

Lighting Market in the Public Sector - UK 2009-2013

Changes to legislation on energy efficiency and carbon emissions as well as volatile fuel prices has seen increased development of energy efficient products and integrated lighting systems with wider interest in these products throughout the public sector. more

Builders Merchant Market faces similar difficulties in the main West European markets 2/10/2009

Builders Merchant Market - Western Europe - UK 2009-2013

In terms of the overall builders merchants market within the EU, there are various estimates of market size.  AMA estimate the market in the EU to be worth around €138 billion (Euros) in 2008 equivalent to around £120-125 billion (Sterling), depending on exchange rates. 2009 is likely to result in a decline in all markets, with new housing badly affected in all countries. RMI work typically depends on consumer confidence which is relatively fragile across all major European economies, while non-residential construction is also under pressure reflecting financial constraints. more

Safety and Sustainability become increasingly important in the Fire Protection Market 28/09/2009

Active and Passive Fire Protection Market - UK 2009-2013

Decline in the housing market is likely to influence the active and passive fire protection sector with regard to fire doorset installations, fire alarms and sprinklers - mainly in multi storey apartments - with safety and sustainability becoming increasingly important issues. In addition, further decline within the non-domestic construction sector - particularly in offices, retail and industrial - will have a negative effect on the passive fire protection market and will see decline in fire resistant glass, partitions, and cable during 2009. more

Two new AMA reports review the facilities services provision of Local Authority- and Housing Association- owned social houses 01/10/2009

Facilities Services Provision – Local Authority Housing Market - UK 2009-2013

The facilities management market is generally mature across a wide range of sectors, however the social housing sector is less mature and is likely to develop over the coming years. The social housing sector is due to receive a boost over the short to medium term from the Government’s decision to bring forward £3bn of capital spending to 2009-10 from 2010-11 in order to provide some impetus to the economy.  However, this measure will impact on the social housing sector in the medium to longer term, even though the overall economy is expected to slowly recover in that period. more

Consulting Engineers Market continues to show relative strength despite current market conditions 13/10/2009

Consulting Engineers Market - UK 2009-2013

Over the past five years there has been substantial growth in size of the consulting engineers market and in 2008 the sector grew by around 20% to reach revenues of around £10.2 billion, boosted by a strong performance in infrastructure, utilities and public sector construction. The sector, especially civil engineering, is generally thought to be more robust than the contracting industry in the face of the current economic crisis and activity is not expected to decline across all end use sectors. more

Electrical Accessories Market dominated by the low voltage cable systems sector 29/09/2009

Electrical Accessories Market - UK 2009-2013

The electrical accessories market was estimated at around £1.3 billion in 2009 and was dominated by the low voltage cable systems sector, which represented around 57% of the market in value terms.  The credit crunch and resultant fall in construction levels have impacted the market, resulting in the market declining 14% in 2009. more

Garden Leisure Market linked closely to prevailing weather trends and consumer confidence- 22/09/2009

Garden Leisure Market - UK 2009-2013

This is the tenth edition  of the Domestic Garden Leisure Market Report and reviews the market for garden furniture, barbecues and associated accessories estimated to be worth an overall £520 million.  The report assesses developments in the garden leisure market in the light of the current economic climate and provides an overall analysis of the sector, with indications of the threats and opportunities likely to affect the future performance of this market.  The report consists of over 70 pages, including a variety of tables and charts, with forecasts until 2013. more

New report provides a unique insight into a £2billion+ RMI sector - 22/09/2009

While there is some information on the level of new build activity within the education market, the level of RMI (Repairs, Maintenance and Improvement) activity has always been difficult to quantify due to the fragmented way budgets are managed and controlled. However, AMA Research have recently published a unique review assessing the Education RMI market in terms of overall spend, sector splits, spend programmes, levels of responsibility etc, which provides a unique insight into this £2 billion+ market. more

CCTV and Access Control markets retain strength in difficult times- 22/09/2009

Electronic Security and Access Control Market - UK 2009-2013

The UK electronic security and access control market has performed relatively well over the last two years, particularly given the difficult economic climate. Market growth has been supported by the strength of the CCTV and access control sectors, while the maturity of the intruder alarm sector with high levels of penetration has limited the development of this sector. more

Off-site and MMC drive product specification changes in the Pipes and Fittings sector - 22/09/2009

Pipes and Fittings Market - UK 2009-2013

Growing off-site and other modern manufacturing methods are likely to influence the greater use of push-fit and modular products.  A continued reduction in on-site skill levels will also drive the change to easier installation, leading to greater levels of flexibility of application amongst both pipes and fittings.  The shift to greater use of modern methods of construction will also be driven by the increased demand for greater numbers of flats and smaller properties, again with mixed implications for the different sectors of the pipe and fittings market. more

Corporate FM market closely linked to construction output levels - 21/09/2009

Facilities Management Outsourcing - Corporate Sector Markets - UK 2009-2013

Levels of construction output have a strong impact on the corporate FM market, with the commencement of FM commonly linked to the uptake of new business premises.  The market has therefore benefited in recent years from high levels of construction activity in the office, retail and leisure sectors. More recently, the global economic crisis has started to impact upon the majority of corporate end use sectors, with some contraction forecast for the corporate FM market over the short to medium term. more

Paint and wallcoverings market impacted by stagnation in the housing market - 21/09/2009

The overall market was estimated to be worth around £882 million in 2008, reflecting a decline of 5% in value terms from 2007.  The main driver for the decline in market value has been the performance of the housebuilding sector in 2008-09 and, more recently, decreasing demand from previously buoyant commercial sectors.  In addition, the DIY paint sector has been particularly affected by a substantial decline in the house moving market and increasing pressures on disposable household incomes over the last 12-18 months. more

New technologies help sustain the Power Tools Market - 21/09/2009

Professional Portable Power Tools Market - UK 2009-2013

Following sustained growth to 2007, the market has declined in 2008 to an estimated size of £216 million. A further decline is anticipated in 2009 with a flat market in 2010, before recovery in 2011. The market has been underpinned by product development that includes the introduction of lithium-ion battery technology and anti-vibration systems. These drivers and others are expected to help sustain the professional portable power tools market that is estimated to reach a size of £233 million by 2013. more

BSF programme is behind schedule for end of 2008 targets - 21/09/2009

Building Schools for the Future - UK 2009-2023

The DCSF has been over-optimistic about how quickly BSF could be established and indicated the timetable over the next 11 years was a “real challenge".  The Programme is considerably behind its schedule of 100 schools completed by the end of 2008, with just 78 schools built & open, 90 schools under construction and 1,200 schools in the procurement pipeline. However, while output is increasing, to renew all 3,500 schools by 2023 will require the renewal of 250 schools a year on average from 2011 onwards – a 50% increase in the number of schools currently being delivered under BSF. more

Continued Government investment key to Prefabricated Volumetric Buildings Market - 21/09/2009

Prefabricated Volumetric Buildings Market - UK 2009 - 2013

Short term prospects for prefabricated volumetric buildings are not optimistic. However, continuing growth in Government investment in the public sector is likely to provide good market opportunities for volumetric construction in the medium to long term, particularly in health, education, MoD, prisons, and the Home Office generally – though rising debt levels are likely to result in cutbacks in some investment programmes. more

Issue 8 of Construction Forecasts Bulletin published - 03/08/2009

The non-domestic construction market was worth an estimated £75.4 billion in 2008, an increase of 5% on the previous year when the market was worth £71.8 billion - according to Issue 8 of the Non-Domestic Construction Forecasts Bulletin. Published every Quarter by AMA Research, the Bulletin provides an in-depth analysis of the key factors influencing this market and its key sectors, and offers detailed forecasts of anticipated performance to 2013. more

New report highlights importance of construction to the Scottish economy - 16/07/2009

Construction in Scotland - 2009-2013

Projections formulated in 2008 suggested that strong infrastructure output growth of 4.1% annually between 2008 and 2012 was likely to be a driving force behind construction growth for Scotland.  This included the Scottish Government’s £3 billion Transport Investment Programme and large scale regeneration projects, including the development of a new town at Ravenscraig. The Scottish Government has also set a target of 35,000 new homes annually by 2015. more

Roofing market affected by contracting mortgage and housing markets - 16/07/2009

Roofing Market - UK 2009-2013

The roofing market was estimated at £1.3 billion in 2008 with metal roofing and roof tiles the largest sectors within the market. The performance of the roofing market is strongly linked to construction levels. The recent decline in construction levels has impacted on the value of the roofing market in 2008 and 2009. more

Health and safety products market experiences low-level but consistent growth  - 16/07/2009

Health and Safety Products Market - UK 2009-2013

Despite its maturity, the market for health and safety products in non-domestic applications has experienced reasonably good levels of growth over the last 3 years – with 2009 set to experience strong growth as a result of the impact of ‘swine flu’ on the sector.  Hygiene and PPE products dominate the market - hygiene products are the largest sector with an estimated 44% market share.  Levels of cleanliness and hygiene remain a top priority, particularly within the health and food industries.  High profile media interest in outbreaks of MRSA and epidemiologic diseases such as swine flu are likely to see that this sector remains central to the health and safety market. more

Expansion of pet superstore chains gives a measure of support to the pet accessory market - 16/07/2009

The pet accessories market has been characterised by changes in types of pet ownership, increases in the number of households and a demand for more convenient products. The market has performed reasonably well and is generally less affected by adverse economic conditions, as many products are either viewed as necessary purchases or are low value items. The market remains very competitive in 2009 with high levels of imports, e.g. bedding and toys markets, and a prevalence of closely competing products.  The supply structure remains highly fragmented despite several acquisitions in recent years. more

Healthcare sector provides much needed boost for architects and contractors - 16/07/2009

The NHS has, in recent years, undertaken the largest hospital building programme in its history.  More than 100 hospitals have been built under the 2000 NHS Plan. Although the programme is due to end in 2010, substantial funding increases for the healthcare sector by the government are planned for the next 3 years. With over £21bn planned on healthcare projects over the 2008-11 period, this sector offers a much needed opportunity for architects and contractors amidst the downturn being felt in other areas of the construction industry. more

Higher output of new homes requires to meet government targets- 24/06/2009

The target for net additional dwellings at 240,000 homes a year in England (2m by 2016) remains extremely ambitious and unlikely to be achieved in the future. In order to reach anywhere near the target of 2 million by 2016 much will depend on the contribution of gains to the dwelling stock of conversions and the scale of losses through demolitions. In addition, a much higher output of new homes from the housebuilders will be required since, net of self build completions, they are currently building about 130,000 new homes in 2008 and 2009 – a figure which will need to rise on average by 40-50,000 new housing units each year up to 2020 if the target of 3m net additional homes by that date is to be achieved. more

Volatile Commercial Glazing market closely linked to high-rise development- 24/06/2009

The UK glazing market is a diverse industry including both domestic and non-domestic (or commercial), applications and can be analysed in several ways.  Within the context of this report, we have defined the term ‘commercial glazing’ in the context of the type of product used rather than end-use application. Historically, there had been a clear distinction between the residential and non-residential markets in terms of the types of product used. However, since 2000 has been a marked increase in the development of high-rise residential and mixed-use buildings. In contrast to 3 - 4 storey apartment blocks, where typical domestic-type glazing systems are used, on taller residential buildings commercial-type systems are typically specified including curtain wall. more

General Industrial Products Distribution Market "Mature and Highly Fragmented" - 24/06/2009

This is a mature and highly fragmented market that experienced relatively stable conditions to 2007, before being impacted by the recession in 2008. The market experienced low level value growth during the period 2003-07, with typical annual average growth rates of 1–2%. During the more difficult trading conditions of 2008, the market declined by 2%, with the greatest impact on the market occurring during the second half of the year. more

Positive outlook sustained in Commercial Washrooms Market despite recent economic downturn - 18/05/2009

The commercial washrooms market was estimated to be worth £346 million in 2008, according to the second edition of the “Commercial Washrooms Market” report recently published by AMA Research. The report indicates the commercial washrooms market has shown excellent levels of growth over the last five years, supported by the buoyancy of the non-domestic construction market. The outlook for this market continues to remain positive despite the current UK economic downturn, with opportunities for growth particularly evident in the education, entertainment/leisure and health sectors. more

Government to accelerate £1billion of investment in the Education Construction Market - 18/05/2009

The Government is investing £21.9 billion of capital into the school estate between 2008 and 2011 as part of the Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR) 2007. In March 2009, the Government also announced that it was accelerating almost £1 billion of investment to enable thousands of school projects to be started in the next 12 months.Around £919 million has been brought forward, which means that overall schools capital spending in 2009-10 will now be £7.9 billion – up from under £700m in 1997. more

Door and Window Fittings Market stifled by mature and declining door and window market - 15/05/2009 

As a component supplier to the UK door and window replacement market, this market has been significantly hit in 2008, with difficult conditions persisting into 2009.  The UK house-moving market, which slumped in 2008, is significant for the door and window fittings market both because of its influence on the replacement window market, but also in terms of general renovation projects.  The new build market - another important sector – has also experienced a severe downturn in 2008, with new build volumes declining by over 30%.  There is also a retrofit market for existing homeowners, which has been depressed and unlikely to recover in the uncertain economic climate in 2009. more

Building and Home Improvement Products Market set for recovery in 2011  - 11/05/2009

Following continuous growth to 2007, the market has declined in 2008 to an estimated size of £46 billion with medium term forecasts for the market remaining uncertain. However, the market is expected to begin recovery in 2011 and grow to an estimated market size of £47.7 billion by 2013. Key factors influencing the future prospects of the market are the performance of the UK construction sector, house moving and consumer confidence. more

Construction Equipment Rental Market experiences estimated 4% decrease 2006-2008 - 11/05/2009

The UK construction equipment rental market is estimated to be worth some £4.4 billion in 2008, having declined by an estimated 6% in 2008 compared to the previous year. Variable market performance 2007-2008 reflects the combined impact of modest growth of around 6% in 2007, followed by a 6% market decline in 2008, mirroring the negative impact of the global financial crisis and downturn in private residential and some sectors of non-residential construction. more

In the UK, it has been estimated that plastic waste arisings have been growing by around 2%, reaching around 3.4m tonnes in 2007. For 2008, it is estimated that this level has remained static, underpinned by reduced levels of consumer demand in the second half of the year. Consumer goods packaging comprises around 60% of the total, while non-consumer packaging accounts for a further 13% or so. Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and plastic from end of life vehicles (ELVs) each account for around 6 –7%. more

Lack of available building land barrier to potential growth in the Self Build Housing Market - 06/05/2009

While short term prospects for the sector are likely to be difficult, self build is unlikely to experience the same level of decline as the commercial housebuilding market. As a result, our forecasts are for a small downturn in volumes in the sector in 2009, before experiencing modest recovery, but restrictions in plot availability will remain the limiting factor to long term growth. more

Lower levels of consumer and business confidence impact on the Wood Panels Market in the UK - 27/04/2009

The market was estimated to be worth around £2billion in 2008, reflecting a decline of 9% in value terms from 2007. One of the key drivers for decline in market value has been significantly lower demand from the construction and housebuilding sectors, both key users of panel products such as OSB and plywood. The market has also been subject to volatile price pressures with raw material price inflation being a key factor in the market in 2006-07, followed by significant price reductions into H2 2008. more 

Issue 7 of Construction Forecasts Bulletin published - 23/04/2009

The non-domestic construction market was worth an estimated £75.3 billion in 2008, an increase of 4.9% on the previous year when the market was worth £71.8 billion - according to Issue 7 of the Non-Domestic Construction Forecasts Bulletin. Published every Quarter by AMA Research, the Bulletin provides an in-depth analysis of the key factors influencing this market and its key sectors, and offers detailed forecasts of anticipated performance to 2013. more

Future prospects for the Pond Equipment Market remain uncertain 07/04/2009

Water gardening has increased in popularity over the last decade fuelled by gardening makeover programmes on television, large garden shows featuring water gardens, rising disposable incomes and low inflation. The more recent trends suggest that the growth in popularity of water gardening is waning, with 2007 and 2008 performance more negative. more

£3bn of capital spending to boost FM Healthcare and Education Markets in 2009-2010  07/04/2009

While the downturn in the economy is expected to have a negative impact on the growth of the overall FM market, the Healthcare and Education sector is due to receive a boost over the short to medium term from the Government’s decision to bring forward £3bn of capital spending to 2009-10 from 2010-11 in order to provide some impetus to the economy.  However, this measure will result in lower departmental capital expenditure limits in 2010-11, resulting in more moderate growth in the sector in the medium to longer term even though the overall economy is expected to slowly recover in that period. more