2010 proved a volatile year for the window and conservatory industry. Difficult economic conditions, low consumer confidence and continued decline in volume all had an impact.

Fabricators

There was significant movement in fabricator activity during 2010. The number of window/door fabricators declined slightly to 4,552 and 34% changed their details during the year. PVC-u fabricators declined slightly to 1,844 companies while the number of aluminium fabricators increased. The number of PVC-u fabricators who dual-source systems rose by 53% while 649 fabricators now manufacture more than one material – PVC-u, aluminium or timber.

Conservatory roof fabricators had a difficult year with a 20% drop in the number of PVC-u/aluminium fabricators to 449 companies.

Installers

The number of window and door installers actually rose slightly to 12,548 although volume per installer dropped. Installers have diversified and now supply a wider range of home improvement products. 55% of installers changed their details during 2010.

The East Midlands region has the highest number of installers at 1,595 followed closely by the North West, while Northern Ireland had the least at 194.

It must be noted that the number of builders and contractors now actively involved in window, door and conservatory installations has increased substantially, however these have not been included in this report. Insight has a separate database of local builders and contractors for those that wish to target this sector.

Find out more about the Insight window and conservatory fabricator and installer database. Visit www.insightdata.co.uk or call 01934 808293