|
 |
This report analyses the sector in terms of market
size, key sector trends, product mixes, key suppliers and
distribution channels.
A relatively mature market, domestic window coverings
had exhibited good annual growth rates in the earlier years of the
current decade but has since slowed down. The market in 2006-07 was
affected by economic factors including the more volatile interest
rates, increases in fuel, energy and food prices, etc which all
culminated in constraints on disposable household incomes for
non-essential purchases such as window coverings. Whilst achieving
2% growth 2006-07, the current uncertainty surrounding key
influencing factors such as the housebuilding and house moving
sectors mean that our current estimate is for little or no growth
for 2008. However, the market is expected to return to growth
2009-2012 with annual rates of 2-3% culminating in market value of
around £1.48 billion in 2012.
Curtains dominate the market accounting for estimated
48% value share in 2007, though the sector has been subject to
continuing pricing pressures as a result of increased import
penetration. |
The blinds sector has experienced good growth
and now accounts for over 30% of the overall window coverings market.
However, although still achieving growth rates above the market average,
the blinds sector has experienced lower growth rates in recent years.
Lightweight curtains have
experienced mixed fortunes in 2005-07 with increased demand for voiles and
sheers not able to outweigh the declining net & lace sector. Curtain
suspension products experienced growth of 2% in 2006-07, benefiting from
the general trend to more decorative metal poles and the expansion of
metal curtain track at the expense of demand for plastic track.
In terms of distribution,
established channels such as department stores/variety stores/grocery
multiples have gained share, largely at the expense of independents,
though online trading sites have also grown.
Given the mature state of the
window coverings market in the UK, the current uncertain economic
environment and the dramatic slowing of the housebuilding and house moving
sectors in March -April 2008, market performance in the short-medium term
is now extremely difficult to predict. Current estimates for 2008 indicate
a static market with only marginal growth at best, followed by the
possibility of flat or very marginal growth for 2009 as consumer
confidence and available disposable incomes are expected to remain under
pressure over the short-term
AMA Research’s “Domestic
Window Coverings Market – UK 2008” report is available in hard copy or
electronic format for £625 and can be ordered online at
www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 0871 3103450.
|
