Office and Home Office Furniture Market - 5 Key Facts

• By 2021, the market for office and home office furniture is forecast to show steady growth and increase by 11%.
• The share of the market held by the leading five suppliers fell steadily from 35% in 2014 to 32% in 2016.
• In 2016 the seating market accounted for 33% of market value, gaining share from desking.
• Imports are a significant factor in the market, reaching £288.9m in 2016, compared to £270.5m in 2015, and account for around 35% of the market.
• The two main distribution channels for office furniture are via the dealer network or directly to end users, with 45% and 24% shares respectively.

These facts have been extracted from AMA Research's 'Office and Home Office Furniture Market Report – UK 2017-2021 Analysis' available for purchase now. 

Domestic Kitchen Furniture Market Report 2017-2021 - 5 Key Facts

• The kitchen furniture market comprises furniture, worktops and sinks, with furniture accounting for 79% of the market in value terms.
• The kitchen furniture market is at the mature stage of its product lifecycle, with replacement sales accounting for almost 80% of sales.
• Imports currently account for less than 7% of the kitchen furniture market (excluding worktops and sinks), with Germany and Italy being the major sources.
• The worktops market is forecast to show good growth in the period to 2021, with share increasing to 13% of the total market.
• The top 3 suppliers account for around 59% of the kitchen furniture market.

These facts have been extracted from AMA Research's 'Domestic Kitchen Furniture Market Report - UK 2017-2021 Analysis' available for purchase now. 

Domestic Garden Leisure Market Report - UK 2017-2021 Analysis - 5 Key Facts

·                Subject to the influence of British summer weather, the UK garden leisure market has remained positive in recent years with overall growth of 37% between 2012 and 2016.

·                Garden furniture accounted for the largest sector in 2016 at around 60% in value terms with metal and wood based furniture accounting for combined value share of around 76% in 2016.

·                The barbecue sector has benefitted from a general upward movement in average prices in recent years, as well as increased focus on outdoor entertainment, resulting in 51% overall value growth between 2012 and 2016.

·                The internet has become an increasingly important channel for garden leisure purchases in recent years with many garden e-tailers now offering large ranges of garden furniture, barbecues and accessories.

·                Garden leisure is currently forecast to remain relatively buoyant into the medium-term with overall growth of 19% currently forecast between 2016 and 2021.

These facts have been extracted from AMA Research's report 'Domestic Garden Leisure Market Report - UK 2017-2021 Analysis', available from www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724. 

4% growth in the UK office and home office furniture market in 2016

The UK office and home office furniture market is estimated to have grown by 4% in 2016, with similar growth forecast for 2017. While the excess production capacity in the industry has mostly been absorbed, the market remains very competitive for all suppliers and market value remains below the peak year of 2001. Recent growth in the market has been largely the result of large scale office development or refurbishment and has benefited the fit-out specialists and larger dealers.

Business confidence has improved steadily as the economy has grown. The commercial new build sector is relatively buoyant, with new office construction increasing, albeit remaining well below the levels reached in the past. The most significant growth has taken place in the City and Greater London, with anecdotal evidence suggesting that regional centres are also increasingly attracting developers. However, forecasts for the next three years indicate a decline in the construction of offices due to Brexit related uncertainty and pressure on space.

The UK office furniture market has split into two broad categories, the corporate sector serviced by UK and overseas branded suppliers, either directly to end users or via fit-out specialists and furniture dealers and the SOHO sector supplied mainly from China and other low cost producing countries via mail order, the Internet and retail outlets. 

A large proportion of home office furniture is supplied in flat pack form by specialist manufacturers and sold through outlets such as IKEA, Argos, Staples, and Tesco Direct. The home office has grown during the review period but is no longer increasing its share of the overall market.

Imports are significant in the office and home office furniture market and account for around a 35% share, with China as well as EU countries including Germany, Italy, France and Sweden important suppliers. The office furniture market remains fiercely competitive, with a large number of suppliers operating in the market, despite some high-profile casualties in the past. 

"The UK office furniture market is expected to show slowing growth until 2021, with annual growth rates of 3-4% from 2017 onwards, as a result of the uncertain outlook for the economy as a whole” said Fiona Watts at AMA Research. “Technology will continue to influence the market, with more companies adopting wireless, network stations and VoIP systems, and this is likely to stimulate demand in some sectors in the longer term.”

Changes are likely in individual product groups. For example, demand for smaller desks will continue, reflecting technological developments and changing work practices, and some value will be added through the introduction of more accessories and a greater level of integration with other office products. The demand for wave desks and benching systems is expected to continue, reflecting a preference for open plan offices, and more adjustable height desks are also likely to be introduced to cater for stand-up/sit down arrangements. 

The number of people working from home, either as self-employed or as employees, is likely to increase steadily in the medium term, as firms realise the benefits to be achieved from providing flexible working arrangements for their staff and this trend should continue to benefit the SOHO sector of the market. This sector is likely to continue to develop positively, with the choice offered by online suppliers and retailers increasing as more employees work from home, although wireless connectivity, laptops, and tablet usage is likely to impact on the demand for desks.

The ‘Office and Home Office Furniture Market Report – UK 2017-2021 Analysis’ report is published by AMA Research, a leading provider of market research and consultancy services with over 25 years’ experience within the construction and home improvement markets. The report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Floorcoverings Market - UK 2016-2020 - Key Facts

• The floorcoverings market continued to be positive in 2016 with overall growth of 13% since 2011.
• Returning consumer confidence and spending levels, an improving housing market as well as good growth for some contract sectors have been key drivers for growth since 2014.
• Carpet continues to take largest value share at over 50% in 2016.
• The demand for LVT in both contract and domestic sectors has helped vinyl to outperform the total floorcoverings market in recent years with overall growth of 16% from 2011 to 2016.
• Current forecasts indicate more modest annual value growth rates of 2-3% to 2020.

These facts have been extracted from AMA Research's report 'Floorcoverings Market Report - UK 2016-2020 Analysis', available from www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Upholstered Furniture and Beds Market - UK 2016-2020 - Key Facts

• The upholstered furniture market is expected to grow by 11% between now and 2020.
• Sales of individual sofas and convertibles have risen to around a third of the market.
• The value share of leather material finish accounts for around half the market.
• Divans account for around half of the beds market by value.
• The share taken by latex mattresses accounts for around 10% of the mattress sector.

These facts have been extracted from AMA Research's report 'Upholstered Furniture and Beds Market Report - UK 2016-2020 Analysis', available from www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

UK office furniture dealers’ market increased by 4.5% in 2016

The UK office furniture dealers’ market has shown consistent growth since 2012, with an increase of 4.5% estimated in 2016. The sector is expected to show solid growth in the next few years, though at gradually declining rates. The steady increase in the office furniture dealers’ market has largely been the result of buoyant growth in the UK economy and strong recovery in office construction, rising business confidence and the surge in quality fit-out projects.

The two main distribution channels for office furniture are via the dealer network, which accounts for around 45% of the market, and direct to end users. Mail order, online sales and retail outlets make up the remainder. Office furniture dealers have lost share within the office furniture market in recent years as companies seek to reduce costs by dealing directly with the manufacturers and, as a result, the office furniture dealers’ market is forecast to grow at a slower rate than the overall furniture market over the next five years.

Public sector contracts have declined in recent years, also having a negative effect on the dealers’ channel. The recent growth in internet sales, particularly e-auctions and e-procurement delivering cost savings, has also had a negative impact on the dealers’ market. In addition, a large proportion of home office furniture is supplied in flat pack form by specialist manufacturers and importers and sold through retail furnishing outlets or online, by companies such as IKEA, Argos and Tesco Direct.

The office furniture dealers’ market is extremely fragmented with over 2,000 companies operating in the UK, largely single branch enterprises. Whilst supply capacity pressures as the market was restricted resulted in some consolidation, supply continues to exceed demand, maintaining high levels of competition.

There is significant polarisation of supply - whilst some suppliers focus on low cost markets, an increasing number are targeting the premium segment, offering high end products with a range of additional services in order to avoid direct price comparison.

In terms of product trends, the demand for smaller, sit/stand or height adjustable desks should stay strong, reflecting technological developments and changing work practices, while the demand for wave desks and benching systems is also expected to continue. The market for ergonomic seating is also believed to be resilient, along with demand for more casual seating for reception, meeting and leisure or breakout areas. However, the storage sector is forecast to decline, reflecting the gradual adoption of electronic storage and the greater use of electronic data.

Fiona Watts, editor at AMA Research, commented: “Despite recent solid growth, prospects for the office furniture sector are less certain. The continuing uncertainties regarding the form and process of Brexit are not currently conducive to speculative or substantial investment in new commercial premises. Therefore, it is likely that institutional investment in office building will fall in the short-medium term, while other factors that may provide a barrier for the office furniture dealers’ market include a reduction in capital investment from many large-scale public sector organisations.”

The ‘Office Furniture Dealers Market Report – UK 2017-2021 Analysis’ report is published by AMA Research, a leading provider of market research and consultancy services within the construction and home improvement markets. The report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Domestic Bedroom Furniture - UK 2016-2020 - Key Facts

• Imports have increased significantly in the last decade and currently account for around two thirds of the bedroom furniture market, though most fitted furniture is manufactured in the UK.
• The share of the total market taken by fitted bedroom furniture was around 20% in 2015, with many of the UK fitted furniture suppliers being vertically integrated companies.
• Retail specialists are the leading channel in this market, led by Sharps, Hammonds etc with a share over 25%.
• The market is fragmented with 7 leading suppliers accounting for around a quarter of the market.
• There has been a shift away from traditional designs, with contemporary design styles continuing to grow, as a result traditional share is now under 30% of the market.

These facts have been extracted from AMA Research's report 'Domestic Bedroom Furniture Market Report - UK 2016-2020 Analysis', available from www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724

5% growth in the UK residential kitchen furniture market in 2016

The UK domestic kitchen furniture market has grown steadily in recent years and particularly in 2015/2016 with value growth in the past two years reaching 5% per annum. There is also evidence of volume growth during this period. The kitchen furniture market is at the mature stage of its product lifecycle, with replacement sales accounting for almost 80% of sales, a share which had increased steadily in the past, but has remained stable in recent years.

The kitchen furniture market comprises furniture, worktops and sinks, and it is estimated that furniture accounts for almost 80% of the market in value terms. The shares have been static in recent years, although worktops had gained market share before the recession affected the market, driven by the trend towards higher value products in this sector. Rigid kitchens are now the norm, and are increasing their share of the market.

The blurring of the distinction between the kitchen and dining room is a major factor affecting this market, with less formality in the home and a move towards open plan living, facilitating socialising, entertaining and relaxing, as well as the normal cooking and washing up activities. This move away from a functional form has meant that accessory suppliers have had to develop added value, innovative storage solutions.

In terms of trends, curved cabinetry, soft-closing drawers, handle-less doors, open display shelving, sophisticated lighting and additional electrical appliances are increasing in popularity. High gloss finishes, stainless steel, frosted glass, wood and metallic finishes are all still popular, with combinations of materials frequently used to add interest, however, there are signs that softer finishes are growing in popularity.

An increasing number of manufacturers are offering units to suit the needs of elderly or infirm customers and this trend is likely to continue as the proportion of the UK population in older age groups increases. 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 and larger sinks, helping to underpin the value of the sinks market. In addition, technological developments in the tap sector, such as pull-out spray taps and water filtration systems, have also added value to the market, along with the growth in popularity of waste disposal units.

Forecasts for the next 2-3 years have been downgraded as a result of the ‘Brexit’ vote, which is likely to lead to slower growth in the UK economy, price increases for imported raw materials and less confidence amongst consumers.

“The domestic kitchen furniture market is forecast to show more moderate annual growth in the next few years of around 3%, before returning to stronger growth in 2020 and 2021” said Fiona Watts of AMA Research. “In the short-term margins are likely to be squeezed further, particularly by the increasing cost of imported raw materials, such as chipboard, as well as metal components, such as aluminium and steel, while energy costs have also started to rise again, although they have been subject to some volatility in recent years.”

Higher levels of new build in both the private and public housing sectors are expected to support growth in the kitchen market, however, the high proportion of flats and smaller houses may impact on the average value of kitchen furniture installed in this sector. Whilst the use of kitchen pods in the domestic environment remains low at present, particularly in comparison to bathroom pods, off-site manufacturing of key construction components is increasing and this may support the wider use of kitchen pods in the social housing sector in the longer term and possibly in the flats and apartments sector. The sale of kitchens with installation included is also likely to continue to increase, since IKEA, B & Q, Wickes and Homebase are among the companies now promoting this service strongly.

The ‘Domestic Kitchen Furniture Market Report – UK 2017-2021 Analysis’ report is published by AMA Research, a leading provider of market research and consultancy services within the construction and home improvement markets. The report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Domestic Kitchen and Bathroom Worktops - UK 2016-2020 - Key Facts

• The value of the total kitchen worktop market has grown by 16% in the last 4 years.
• Worktops account for around 14% of the total kitchen furniture and worktops market.
• The bathroom worktop market has shown growth, although it remains a small sector of the overall worktop market - at around 6-7%.
• Natural and engineered stone account for some 21% of the kitchen worktop market in value terms.
• Around 27% of kitchen worktop sales by value in the UK are through the Retail Kitchen Specialists for 2015, a reduction from previous years.

These facts have been extracted from AMA Research's report 'Domestic Kitchen and Bathroom Worktops Market Report - UK 2016-2020 Analysis', available from www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724

Steady growth overall in the UK upholstered furniture and beds sectors

The UK upholstered furniture and beds market has shown good growth in recent years of around 3-4% per annum until 2015, with a further increase of around 3% expected in 2016. According to a new report by AMA Research, reasons for the market increasing steadily in the 2012-15 period, include an improving UK economy, rising consumer confidence and an increase in sales of higher value products.  

In the upholstered furniture sector, sales of single sofas and convertibles represent an important part of the upholstered furniture market, while armchairs sold separately account for smaller share. Modular, corner, U Shaped sofas are gaining share. These flexible designs are suited to open plan living and are adaptable to different spaces. The share accounted for by leather has declined marginally over the last 3-5 years, with the wide range of colours and styles supporting the growth of the fabric sector.

During the last 5 years, there has been a marked trend towards double beds and, in particular, to king sized beds. This growth is largely attributed partly to the high level of price competition within the market, particularly in the bedstead sector. Growth in the mattress sector has been underpinned by increased demand for higher value pocket sprung mattresses, along with the growing popularity of other materials, such as memory foam. Demand for divan sets has fallen steadily due to growth in demand for mattresses, either sold separately as a replacement purchase or together with bedsteads, including wooden, upholstered and metal bedsteads.

The supply structure of the upholstered furniture market has not changed dramatically in recent years, though the major suppliers have increased their overall share of the market. The furniture multiples continue to dominate the distribution of upholstered furniture, with multiple specialists such as DFS, ScS and Sofology accounting for a significant share, along with general furniture multiples, such as IKEA, Harveys and Furniture Village, and department stores/variety chains. Imports of upholstered furniture have increased in the 2012-15 period to reach around 45% of the market by value, with imports from China now accounting for the major share.

The beds sector is more concentrated in terms of suppliers compared with the upholstered furniture market, however, in recent months there has been considerable activity in the mattress sector, with newer entrants specialising in offering a compact range of products, often via the internet and available for early delivery.

While forecasts for the UK economy in 2016 have recently been upgraded slightly by the major forecasting institutions, the uncertainty surrounding Brexit and the current high levels of indebtedness for many people is likely to impact consumer confidence. The rate of growth until 2020 is expected to be lower than in the last few years. While the upholstered furniture and beds sectors are relatively mature, a growing demand for housing should stimulate market growth. Mattresses are one specific area of the beds market where opportunities for further value growth exist, with relatively short replacement cycles and consumers trading up to higher quality products.

“The popularity of modern and contemporary furniture seems to favour alternative furniture combinations, rather than the traditional 3-piece suites” said Hayley Thornley, Research Manager at AMA Research. “Other trends include flexible and modular furniture options to allow for open plan living areas and awkward spaces. This is also reflected in the range of design options now offered, including corner sofas, u-shaped sofas and chaise sofas.”

The ‘Upholstered Furniture and Beds Market Report – UK 2016-2020 Analysis’ report is published by AMA Research, a leading provider of market research and consultancy services within the construction and home improvement markets. The report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Forecasts indicate steady medium-term growth for the household textiles market

The UK market for household textiles is estimated to have grown by 3% in 2015, with similar growth forecast for 2016, according to a new report by AMA Research. Consumer confidence remained high in 2015, although market values have been negatively affected by high levels of competition and a proliferation of lower cost imports in this sector. The situation in late-2016 is uncertain, though underlying demand will come from replacement purchases, which in the household textiles market are significant.

Given the maturity of the household textiles market in the UK, sales are heavily reliant on replacement purchases. Daily wear and tear of sheets, towels, pillowcases and similar items, drives the need to replace them on a regular basis and helps underpin demand. Most items are relatively low value and therefore the market is not subject to the same degree of volatility experienced by higher value household products.

Bed linen dominates the household textiles product mix in 2016 with a share of around 40%, followed by filled products, bathroom textiles and then table linen/kitchen towelling, which accounts for a smaller share. Factors influencing the bed linen sector in recent years have included competitive pricing and year-round discounting, which have been compounded by increasing fragmentation and a growing online market. Lower prices have also shortened replacement cycles, encouraging householders to replace worn or damaged linens more often, but lower prices are also stimulating a switch to higher quality bedlinen as consumer tastes become increasingly influenced by exposure to higher quality bedding in hotels, for example.

Market growth in the filled products sector has been stimulated by higher demand levels from the hospitals and care homes sector as well as the hospitality sector. Sales of duvets have remained fairly strong, underpinned by continuing developments in filling materials, whilst steady demand from the contract sector has continued to drive sales of pillows. In addition, another important factor stimulating volume growth has been the extension of ranges within grocery multiples and also discount retailers, with the latter in particular offering filled products at competitive prices.

Bathroom Textiles is a substantial sector, now worth around £300m – sales growth has been steady and largely influenced by the same factors impacting on the wider market.

“Future prospects for the household textiles market are relatively positive, although given the potential for a significant shift in economic conditions; it is currently difficult to make any confident forecasts” said Andrew Hartley, Director of AMA Research. “Current forecasts are for steady but moderate growth of around 2-3% in 2016, and 1-2% per annum in the medium term, reflecting not only the maturity of the market and the potentially challenging economic conditions, but also a continuing polarisation of the market.”

The post-Brexit market points to a number of potential concerns, not the least of which is a fall in consumer confidence and spending. Business confidence may also be affected, although the hospitality sector – a major user of household textile products and an important indicator of the health of the market – is expected to benefit from a weaker pound. On a more positive note, household textiles are relatively low-cost items and largely essential rather than luxury items, with some products, such as towels and bedlinen in particular, subject to high levels of wear and tear. While replacement cycles can be extended, the availability of a greater choice of affordable products on the market means that householders have the option of cheaper replacements, should economic circumstances dictate, but AMA are reasonably positive about the market in the next few years.

The ‘Household Textiles Market Report – UK 2016-2020 Analysis’ report is published by AMA Research, a leading provider of market research and consultancy services with over 25 years’ experience within the construction and home improvement markets. The report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Growth in UK bedroom furniture market despite intensifying competition

Following strong growth in the bedroom furniture market during 2014, the market grew by a modest 2% during 2015, with similar rate of growth forecast for 2016/17. Factors supporting market growth have included an improvement in the housing market, higher consumer confidence levels and a surge in imports in 2014, with China, Vietnam and Poland responsible for much of this increase. Bedroom furniture is estimated to account for a declining share of approximately 12% of the overall UK domestic furniture market.

A number of underlying factors are influencing sales of domestic bedroom furniture, including a greater number of smaller households, a continuing demand for new housing and a new generation of children and teenagers, who require more than just a bed and a cupboard, but a more complex arrangement of storage solutions to cope with their increasingly technological environment, incorporating laptops, televisions, DVD recorders, Xboxes etc. Storage remains a key issue for most UK householders, and the demand for practical storage solutions as well as modular and fitted products and sliding wardrobe systems, have also grown in recent years. In addition, there is an increasing focus on flexible and multi-functional furniture that can be used to maximise space.

In addition, the shift to the private rented sector will also be a factor influencing the nature of the buying population for bedroom furniture. The rental market has nearly doubled since 2002, and continued growth in this sector seems likely to increase the proportion of the buying population focused on lower cost products, particularly short to medium term tenants, and landlords. Factors that have had a negative impact on sales of bedroom furniture include an increase in home working, which can place pressure on bedroom living space within the dwelling, and price erosion. While the rapid penetration of low cost imports from the Far East and Eastern Europe has driven down prices and margins in most sectors of the furniture market, the import penetration level is at its highest in the bedroom sector.

Competition has intensified in the retail sector in particular, where the leading established players have seen grocery multiples gain share through the adoption of ‘click and collect’ business models, and online specialists becoming more significant. In terms of distribution share for bedroom furniture, retail specialists account for the bulk of the market, followed by furniture multiples and department stores/variety chains. Growing competition in a sluggish market has also been reflected in the continued high level of liquidations seen in the sector, both at manufacturer and retail level. In the fitted furniture sector of the market, however, many suppliers are vertically integrated companies, involved in the design, manufacture and installation of their own furniture, often marketed through their own retail outlets or via concessions in other stores.  

In overall terms, bedroom furniture remains a mature market, although future demand will be driven by a steadily increasing number of households and greater pressures on space utilisation and flexibility. Market conditions are likely to remain very competitive in 2016, but this should improve in the medium term, although they are unlikely to provide high levels of growth, as imports continue to drive down prices and margins.

“Most of the future growth within the bedroom furniture sector is expected to come from the fitted furniture sector and also the lower end of the market, driven by companies such as IKEA, Argos and Tesco focusing on affordability and innovation supported by a wide distribution network” said Keith Taylor, Director of AMA Research. “The market remains highly competitive and smaller independent retailers will continue to feel both economic pressures and a threat from national retailers”.

Prospects for the next 5 years are likely to remain mixed for the overall furniture industry, with forecasts showing modest volume growth in the shadow of an exit from the EU and the economic consequences thereof. The bedroom furniture market is also forecast to show some growth in the next few years, albeit at a slower rate than the overall furniture industry and is estimated at around 2-3% in value terms, per annum.

The ‘Domestic Bedroom Furniture Market Report – UK 2016-2020 Analysis’ report is published by AMA Research, a leading provider of market research and consultancy services within the construction and home improvement markets. The report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Furniture Fittings - UK 2016-2020 - Key Facts

• The UK Market for Furniture Fittings is expected to grow by 25% over the next 5 years.
• Furniture fittings account for around 16% of the overall kitchen furniture market.
• Hinges form the major product sector, with sales estimated to account for 37% of the market.
• Distributors account for the bulk of the market, with a share of over half.
• Interior fittings are a growing sector of the market and account for some 28% of the market.

These facts have been extracted from AMA Research's report 'Furniture Fittings Market Report - UK 2016-2020 Analysis', available from www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724

Good growth forecast in the UK Domestic Kitchen & Bathroom Worktops market

The value of the overall kitchen and bathroom worktop market is estimated to have reached a value in excess of £200m in 2015, reflecting a recent recovery in the market after the difficult post-recession trading period. There has been steady growth in the market since 2011, as a result of an increasing level of consumer confidence and a return to favour of the housing market in particular. The worktop market has grown fractionally faster than the equivalent kitchen furniture and overall bathroom products market.

The value of the total kitchen worktop market is estimated to have increased by around 5% in 2015, following a number of years of relatively good growth of 4-5% per annum. The distribution structure of the worktops market is highly fragmented, with raw material suppliers, importers, manufacturers, fabricators and distributors all being involved. In recent years, there have been changes to distribution shares, with growth in the builders merchants sector, while the DIY multiples sector has lost market share.

Key issues that have influenced this market sector in recent years include; an emphasis on aesthetics and stylish designs; the blurring of distinction between the kitchen and dining room, with less formality in the home and a move towards open plan living; a growing interest in cooking as a hobby and the demand for professional style kitchens and appliances and a trading up to higher value materials and products. The sale of kitchens with installation included is likely to continue to increase, with many large suppliers now promoting this service.

In the bathroom worktop market, growth resumed in 2012, following a difficult period. In 2015, the market saw growth of 8%, though from a low base, and in value terms regained the level seen prior to the economic downturn. However, bathroom worktops remain a small market in overall value terms. Builders and plumbers merchants are the major distributors for bathroom worktops with around 40% of the market, followed by DIY multiples and bathroom equipment specialists.

Major issues currently influencing this market include; rising levels of consumer confidence, which has increased the demand for design-led features in the bathroom; increase in the popularity of solid surfaces for worktops, partly because they can be worked into any shape and can be used to create an integrated basin, worktop and splashback; and a growth in the number of second bathrooms in the new housing market. However, the relatively high proportion of flats and apartments in this sector, and the generally small size of bathrooms in the UK, have limited growth in the bathroom worktops sector.

“As the kitchen market continues to grow, both natural stone and composite materials are forecast to gain market share, with granite and quartz in particular likely to become more competitive as a result of imports from lower cost producers” said Keith Taylor, Director of AMA Research. “However, the affordability and versatility of laminates means that they are likely to continue to dominate the market in the foreseeable future, particularly in volume terms.”

The future prospects for the worktops market are relatively positive with growth anticipated over the next 4-5 years, driven by a more secure and growing new housing market as well as a fundamentally sound level of consumer confidence underpinning the wider refurbishment and home improvement market. Growth in the market for kitchen worktops is likely to continue, and although demand for bathroom furniture and worktops is likely to show only modest growth until 2020, in the medium to long term the projected increases in the level of housebuilding volumes may lead to increased requirements for bathrooms and kitchens, including furniture and worktops. However, one key factor likely to continue to limit growth is the high level of competition at the retail level, which is expected to continue unabated.

The ‘Domestic Kitchen and Bathroom Worktops Market Report – UK 2016-2020 Analysis’ report is published by AMA Research, a leading provider of market research and consultancy services within the construction and home improvement markets. The report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Office and Home Office Furniture Market Report – Key Facts

Did you know...

1. By 2019, the market for office and home office furniture is forecast to show steady growth and increase by 17%.
2. The share of the market held by the leading five suppliers fell steadily from 39% in 2000 to 35% in 2014.
3. In 2014 the desking market accounted for 39% of the market.
4. In 2014 the home office sector was estimated to be account for 30% of the total market.
5. The two main distribution channels for office furniture are via the dealer network or directly to end users, the latter with 25% of the market.

These facts have been extracted from AMA Research's report ' Office and Home Office Furniture Market Report – UK 2015-2019 Analysis ', available from www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Growth of 5% in the UK Furniture Fittings market in 2015

The UK market for furniture and cabinet fittings is estimated to have seen 5% growth by value in 2015, according to a new report released by AMA Research. The sector has benefited from growth in recent years within the domestic furniture market, particularly the kitchen furniture sector, as consumer confidence has increased and the general economic situation has improved. The market has seen solid average growth of 3-4% on an annual basis since 2011.

As well as good growth in some key end use sectors, the furniture fittings sector has also been supported by ongoing product development by suppliers, the trend towards more storage facilities in the home, trading up to soft close drawers, along with a wider range of specialist equipment designed for elderly or disabled householders.

The furniture fittings sector accounts for around 6% of the total domestic furniture market, although this share is significantly higher in some sectors. The kitchen furniture market accounts for the largest share of the furniture fittings market with estimated sales representing 62% of the market, compared to an estimated 15% in the bedroom sector and 11% in the dining and occasional furniture sector. The kitchen furniture market is at the mature stage of its product lifecycle, with replacement sales currently accounting for over 75% of sales.

In terms of product mix, hinges form the major product sector, with sales estimated to account for 37% of the market by value, followed by interior fittings and drawer systems, with handles, knobs and miscellaneous products accounting for smaller shares of the market. Although no separate figures are available for imports of furniture fittings, it is estimated that they account for a significant share of the market, with major suppliers importing products from their overseas parent companies, or from subsidiaries abroad.

“Going forward, the market for furniture fittings is forecast to show good growth of 4-5% per annum between 2016 to 2020, with growth likely in all product sectors” said Keith Taylor, Director of AMA Research. “Key drivers include reasonably positive economic conditions compared to the last five years, and the need for a significant increase in housing construction should provide strong demand for domestic furniture and fittings.”

In addition to the demand created by rising sales in the domestic furniture market, the manufacturers and suppliers of furniture fittings are likely to provide added value to their market sector by developing new and improved products. Particular product areas where development is likely to take place include interior storage solutions, driven by space limitations in modern housing in the UK and equipment for disabled and less mobile customers, as the population demographics move towards an ageing population.

The ‘Furniture Fittings Market Report – UK 2016-2020 Analysis’ report is published by AMA Research, a leading provider of market research and consultancy services within the construction and home improvement markets. The report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Domestic Kitchen Furniture Market Report - Key Facts

Did you know...

1. The kitchen furniture market comprises furniture, worktops and sinks, with furniture accounting for 79% of the market in value terms.
2. The market is at the mature stage of its product lifecycle, with replacement sales accounting for almost 80% of sales.
3. Imports currently account for around 9-10% (excluding worktops and sinks), with Germany and Italy being the major sources.
4. The sinks market is forecast to show modest growth in the period to 2019, accounting for around 8% of the total market.
5. The top 3 suppliers account for around 55% of the kitchen furniture market.

These facts have been extracted from AMA Research's report 'Domestic Kitchen Furniture Market Report - UK 2015-2019 Analysis', available from www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Solid growth in the UK Replacement Kitchen Doors market

The market for replacement kitchen doors has generally shown solid growth since 2008, with average annual growth of around 4-5%. This is significantly higher than for the kitchen market as a whole and was mainly the result of consumer confidence being eroded due to the recession, encouraging consumers to look for cheaper alternatives.

Compared with re-installing the whole kitchen, replacement kitchen doors and drawer fronts are much less costly, depending on the type of door selected, and replacing the doors is also less wasteful, with no additional installation or plumbing costs needed. However, while the replacement door market has benefited from the cutback in consumer expenditure, it has perhaps not been to the extent suppliers had hoped for, and the market remains small.

The kitchen furniture market is at the mature stage of its product lifecycle, with replacement sales currently accounting for more than three quarters of sales. Consumer awareness is high and purchasing decisions tend to be based on design, colour and materials. Features such as soft-closing drawers or handle-less doors, sophisticated lighting and additional electrical appliances in the kitchen are increasing in popularity.

Key issues that have influenced the UK domestic kitchen furniture market in recent years include a blurring of distinction between the kitchen and dining room, with less formality in the home and a move towards open plan living, and an emphasis on aesthetics and stylish designs, with a move towards curved lines. An increasing number of manufacturers are offering units to suit the needs of elderly or infirm customers and this trend is likely to continue as the proportion of the UK population in older age groups increases.

Suppliers that specialise in the kitchen door sector tend to be vertically integrated and involved in the manufacture, marketing and installation of replacement kitchen doors, drawer fronts and often worktops, appliances and other accessories. In terms of distribution structure, the Internet or mail order now accounts for the largest share of the market, followed closely by manufacturers and installers. Other retailers such as IKEA and DIY outlets account for 15%, though the increase in sale of kitchens that include installation is likely to continue.

The total market for replacement kitchen doors is expected to show significant, but reducing growth in the period to 2019. In the short term margins are likely to be squeezed further by the increasing cost of raw materials, although increasing use of e-commerce has enabled door manufacturers to absorb some of these cost increases generally. Despite the value for money and the reduced waste that replacement installation offers, the market could see a decline as the economy improves and consumers spend more money on sustainable design and products, which could lead to kitchens lasting longer and needing to be replaced less frequently.

“The rate of growth in the replacement market is expected to decline as the economy improves, assuming no major changes in the market structure, such as a major company in the fitted kitchen furniture sector entering the replacement sector” said Keith Taylor, Director of AMA Research. “This seems unlikely at the moment, with the mainstream kitchen furniture market expected to show steady growth in the short to medium term future.”

The ‘Replacement Kitchen Doors Market Report – UK 2015-2019 Analysis’ report is published by AMA Research, a leading provider of market research and consultancy services within the construction and home improvement markets. The report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Street Furniture and Lighting Market Report - Key Facts

Did you know that....

1. The UK street furniture market is estimated to be worth around £350m.
2. Bollards/barriers and benches/seats are the two largest sectors accounting for around 50% of the market.
3. Street lighting is valued at well over £600m.
4. The supply structure for furniture is very fragmented – though lighting is much more concentrated.
5. Market prospects to 2019 are mixed reflecting pressure on local authority markets but a focus on improving the urban environment.

These facts have been extracted from AMA Research's report 'Street Furniture and Lighting Market Report - UK 2014-2018 Analysis', available from www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.