Modest growth forecasts for passive fire protection products in the UK

The UK market for passive fire protection products is estimated to be worth around £650m at manufacturers selling prices - excluding installation. The market has grown by around 2% in 2017, with forecasts for 2018 at a similar level. This follows good growth between 2013 and 2015, which represented a period of recovery for the overall construction industry, especially in the education, offices, retail and leisure sectors. The forecasts indicate a more subdued performance, with lower levels of construction activity anticipated as investor confidence has fallen, in the lead up to Brexit.

In terms of structure, the passive fire protection market is comprised of fire resistant doors, fittings and intumescent seals, cables, partitions and suspended ceilings, glass, structural protection and ductwork and damper systems. Fire resistant doors, fitting and seals account for the largest shares of the market, with around 60% of the total value.

Recent product innovations in the sector include; intumescent coatings with faster drying times, electronic fire door closers that are linked to fire alarm systems, and more flexible fire stopping pipe collars that allow a greater range of applications compared to conventional collars.

Key drivers, such as the regulatory aspects of the fire protection sector, are expected to remain unchanged in the short term, since the Hackitt Review into the Grenfell Tower disaster only covered high-rise buildings and provided no recommendations for immediate change in the technical aspects of Building Regulations. However, modifications are expected in the medium to longer term, and AMA Research also anticipates that there will be other implications for the wider industry, as manufacturers and specifiers alike seek to provide safer environments, possibly leading to positive growth by value.

Forecasts for the passive fire protection market in the medium-term are for modest growth in 2018 and 2019, with slightly higher growth levels by 2020. While the longer-term impact of Brexit remains unclear, investors are likely to remain cautious, and this has resulted in recent forecasts being less optimistic for overall construction sector output growth.

In the short term, activity in the non-domestic construction sector is likely to slow down, with more subdued growth of around 1-2% 2018-19. The overall market for passive fire protection products such as cable, glass, ceilings, partitions and doors, is dependent on the performance of key construction sectors, such as offices, industrial, entertainment, health and education.

In terms of output, new office construction is forecast to be less positive over 2018-22, following strong output growth of 70% between 2013 and 2017, something which may impact on demand in sectors such as structural fire protection, suspended ceilings and partitions.

However, the hotel and entertainment sector has shown good growth in recent years and is attracting substantial investment, especially in the budget sector. The university sector has also been positive in terms of new orders in 2018, with future output having the potential to be boosted by demand for new accommodation and facilities for additional students following the removal of the cap on student numbers.

Uncertainty regarding Brexit is expected to have less of an impact on residential construction, where the outlook remains modestly positive, driven in particular by the ongoing imbalance between demand and supply for new housing. Increasing numbers of new flats and apartments built will be the primary source of demand for passive protection in the residential sector.

Other factors influencing the market include the performance of Sterling against both the US dollar and the Euro. Since the 2016 Referendum, Sterling’s fall in value and continued relative weakness has meant that materials price inflation has become a key influence in the UK construction market. If this situation continues, it will prompt some value growth in the passive fire protection sector, since a wide range of materials and products is imported.

The 'Passive Fire Protection Market Report- UK 2018-2022' report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

4% value growth in the brassware and taps market despite intense pricing pressures

The brassware and taps market in the UK, which is worth in excess of £200m, is estimated to have grown by 4% in 2017. Following a period of slow growth, the market improved between 2014-2016, driven by more favourable conditions in the new housebuilding sector and demand from the private commercial sector. A more modest performance is anticipated in 2018 and 2019, with consumer and business confidence expected to decline, impacting on demand for brassware and taps. 

Basin brassware represents largest sector of the market with around 40% share, closely followed by kitchen taps with a similar share, while remaining 20% was accounted for by bath brassware.

The main distribution channel for brassware and taps continues to be builders and plumbers’ merchants with the home improvement multiples also holding a substantial share. Other retail channels include kitchen and bathroom specialists, grocery and furniture multiples, direct supply and department stores. Online retailers are also becoming more important as consumers increasingly use the internet to source the best deals.

Along with durability, key factors such as quality and design will remain important in the UK brassware and taps market. Aesthetics will continue to exert a notable influence on consumer choice particularly with respect to total kitchen or bathroom co-ordination, but the issue of design has also gained importance in commercial applications such as hospitals and schools, with a shift away from the traditional institutionalised appearance towards more domestic orientated styling.

With an ageing UK population, there will continue to be a significant demand for inclusive brassware and taps that combine style with ease of use. For example, lever-controlled products, thermostatic mechanisms, and those designed with digital/electronic controls. Water saving will also continue to be an important consideration and growth is likely in product areas including aerated spray taps, low water content taps, and brassware with an in-built eco button etc. 

Going forward, there are several key factors affecting the market prospects for the brassware and taps market in the UK. Housebuilding volumes have achieved good growth in recent years and this is expected to remain steady, albeit at a lower level compared to recent years, while RMI activity may be more constrained. However, refurbishment activity is expected to improve towards the end of the forecast period.

In the commercial sector, private work is typically a key driver of growth, but also relies upon business confidence, which is again expected to be stronger towards the end of the forecast period following the EU withdrawal. However, public sector spending cuts will continue to be an issue.

Exchange rates and the cost of imported goods have direct implications for brassware and taps produced or sourced from abroad. The current weakness of sterling makes imports into the UK more expensive, along with increasing transportation costs.

“Moderate to steady growth of 3-4% per annum is currently forecast from 2020 to 2022” said Hayley Thornley, Market Research Manager at AMA Research. “The brassware and taps market will continue to fragment and the number of own-label products, is likely to increase. Pricing pressures are likely to remain intense due to the high level of imported product, weak value of sterling and the growing number of competitive distribution channels such as the internet.”

The ‘Bathroom & Kitchen Brassware and Taps Market Report - UK 2018-2022’ report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Housing deficit and skills shortages lead to sustained growth in the panelised modular building systems market

The UK market for panelised modular building systems has performed relatively strongly over the past 3 years or so, and is estimated to have grown by 26% between 2014 and 2017. The main product type is timber frame building systems, which is competing with light gauge steel, precast concrete and other engineered wood-based panels, including structural insulated panels (SIPS) and cross laminated timber (CLT) systems. Estimates for 2018 onwards are for 4% growth per year, until 2020. 

AMA Research’s definition of the market consists of pre-fabricated, 2-dimensional frames or panels in systems for constructing walls, partitions, roofs and floors, typically supplied to site as systems in flat-pack format.

Until 2016, the market for panelised modular building systems had seen steady demand resulting from improving conditions in the overall construction market, particularly in the residential sector, and the market has benefitted from an improved performance in some key end use sectors, including education, entertainment, leisure and offices, though more recently, the UK construction market has been less positive.

Several trends have been driving the market for panelised modular building systems. The drive towards sustainable development, coupled with the need to meet energy efficiency and carbon reduction targets, would seem to weigh in favour of offsite construction. Panelised modular buildings also generate less waste, typically have superior airtightness, and hence thermal insulation performance, than brick and block construction.

In terms of product mix, timber frame systems still constitute the largest sector of the panelised building systems market with a share estimated to be around 70%, largely due to a larger supply base and extensive usage in the Scottish housebuilding market as well as the self-build sector. By value, the timber frame market alone was worth over double the three other smaller sub-sectors combined, with light steel frame the largest of the three smaller sub-sectors.

The market has also benefitted from rapid development of timber engineering, which has resulted in many high-performance engineered timber products coming onto the market, including the likes of cross laminated timber panels and glue laminated timber products. Further growth in these product options may well further stimulate the overall panelised systems market.

Key end use sectors for panelised modular building systems are private and social housing, apartment blocks, schools, hotels, healthcare and care facilities and purpose-built student accommodation. Residential applications account for around 65–75% of the overall market, reflecting the predominance of timber frame in the building of both private and social housing.

“Over the next few years to 2022, there are several factors that will underpin a steady growth in this sector, probably over and above that forecast across the overall construction industry. These include an increasing use of Building Information Modelling, and an increasing number of public sector procurement frameworks” said Keith Taylor, Director of AMA Research.

“More importantly there is now a strong likelihood of an increase in the use of volumetric and other types of offsite construction method to help meet the chronic housing shortage and cope with the lack of traditional construction skills within the construction industry.”

The ‘Panelised Modular Building Systems Market Report – UK 2018-2022’ report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Trading up activities continue to underpin growth in the UK window coverings market, but price competition remains a key characteristic

The UK domestic window coverings market has shown overall growth of 15% between 2013 and 2017, but lower growth rates of around 2-3% are currently forecast for 2018. The market has benefited from increased consumer spending in recent years as well as returning confidence in the housing market and the trend of trading up to more premium products for replacement purchases. Window coverings are considered a fashion item, reflecting the latest styles and tastes, therefore encouraging more frequent updates; consumer demand for convenience, has also led to rapid growth in online sales.   

Whilst the window coverings market can be considered mature, the sector is highly innovative, with frequent product introductions. These include new materials, contemporary designs and the uptake of motorised options; the latter are becoming more affordable and mainstream. The shutters sector is also continuing to grow faster than other areas of the market with impressive annual growth rates. The market does however remain highly competitive, with greater transparency of prices on the internet enabling consumers to easily compare product offers and with widespread discounting taking place between suppliers and retailers.

Curtains account for the largest share of the product mix in 2017-18, but given the significant growth in online sales, the sector has been subject to widespread price competition which has constrained overall value growth. In order to differentiate and maintain margins some suppliers have expanded their custom made services. The blinds sector has seen overall growth of 16% between 2013 and 2017 but again has experienced significant price competition from the growth of online sales. However, the advances in fabric and controls technologies have helped to underpin market value as consumers increasingly trade up to more premium products for replacement purchases.

Both the shutters and curtain suspension sectors have benefitted from the current interior design trends that favour controllable shading options as well as highly decorative elements. The shutters sector continues to benefit from the aspirational nature of the product as well as the range of colour options and increasingly attractive prices. Ease of use as well as focus on decorative elements have underpinned modest, but consistent, annual value growth for the curtain suspension systems sector.

The supply of window coverings is fragmented but has been subject to some consolidation amongst major players. Most significant was Hunter Douglas’s acquisition of Hillarys in 2017. The distribution sector is highly diverse and subject to continued growth in online sales by both generalists and specialists in window coverings. Most suppliers with physical stores now have an omni-channel presence, although consumers are becoming more confident in ordering even custom-made products online. 

Jane Tarver of AMA Research said:

“The domestic window coverings market is forecast to grow by 11% overall from 2018-2022 underpinned by the replacement market but with intense price competition continuing to be an overriding characteristic. However, although considered to be mature, the market remains highly innovative with new products, designs and features, such as automation, likely to underpin the trend for trading-up to premium priced products into the medium-term.”

There is likely to be further consolidation within the market place as labour and distribution costs continue to increase and organisations seek to achieve additional economies of scale.  The distribution channel structure is also likely to be affected by the overall structural changes in the retail sector as online shopping continues to gain share. Whilst a blended approach of both online and offline channels is likely to be offered by larger players in the marketplace, price competition will continue to abound online in the lower to mid end of the market.

The ‘Domestic Window Coverings Report – UK 2018-2022’ is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724

Modest forecasts for construction output amid Brexit uncertainty

Recently revised data indicates that total construction output increased by 8% in 2017 compared with 2016, to reach a total value of £163.5bn. In terms of value, new work accounts for the largest share, with output growth having been particularly strong in the residential new work segment, which saw growth of 14% in the year. RMI output has also been stronger in the residential than in the non-residential sector. Overall RMI output increased by 7% in 2017.

In H1 2018, the construction sector remains uncertain to moderately optimistic. Indications are that new orders remained positive into Q4 2017 and this should lead to some growth in terms of output into 2018 and beyond for certain key sub-sectors, and as a result, the outlook for the UK construction market remains mildly positive into the medium-term, although with lower rates of overall growth than previously forecast.

The outlook for the housing sector remains positive, if modest, with 17% overall growth in residential output currently forecast between 2017 and 2022. The imbalance between demand and supply for new housing will remain one of the key drivers for continued output growth for the residential sector, and the number of new programmes designed to address shortage in housing stocks should motivate output into the medium-term.

However, predicted growth in the newbuild sector is set against lower growth levels for completions, and also takes into account an element of materials inflation – in particular for the finishing of new housing, such as sanitaryware, tiles and electrical wiring products. RMI in the residential sector is currently forecast to remain relatively steady, with low annual growth rates reflecting consumer confidence levels.

The non-residential sector is facing more subdued growth into the medium-term with output currently forecast to reduce to 1-2% 2018-19, followed by annual growth of around 3% to 2022. The issue of business confidence and investment levels and the “wait and see” approach regarding the commitment to future funding and capital commitments are all likely to act as a brake on output levels into the medium-term. 

Infrastructure will remain the largest sub-sector with growth underpinned by HS2 which has the potential to deliver £3-4bn pa of output to 2022. However, the HS2 works also bring into question the issue of capacities both in terms of materials but also workforce which could result in skills shortages for other sub-sectors into the medium-term.

The entertainment & leisure sector output is forecast to see good overall growth to 2022, when output is forecast to be around £10.9bn.  Following growth of around 33% in 2017, annual growth rates are currently forecast to fall back to around 3-5% from 2018 to 2022.

The retail sector is currently forecast to perform less well, due to a combination of structural changes within the sector and also potential reduction in consumer confidence and spending levels, and the public sector is likely to see less investment in capital projects into the medium-term, particularly given the focus on the collapse of Carillion and their extensive involvement in PFI contracts. 

“Overall growth in construction output is forecast to reduce to around 2% for 2017-18, but improving to 3% for 2019-22” said Jane Tarver of AMA Research. “This more modest forecast takes into account the continuing uncertainty surrounding the Brexit process affecting the timing of business investment decisions.”

The ‘Construction and Housing Forecast Bulletin - GB 2018-2022’ is published four times a year by AMA Research. The bulletin provides analysis of the overall construction market in current prices, in terms of new work and RMI activity, also public and private sectors and new orders, housing starts and completions, as well as forecasts to 2022. It is sold on a subscription basis and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk.

Tough market conditions in the UK door & window fabricators market

The UK door and window fabricators market put in a strong performance between 2013 and 2016 but appears to have flattened out in 2017. The key defining factors that continue to pervade the market include; market maturity, fragmentation, competition, cost-management, building legislation, ‘green’ building, tough market conditions and diversification. Competition between suppliers remains intensive particularly given the current challenging economic environment. Growth prospects therefore remain modest with only marginal growth at best forecast in the short term.

The UK door and window fabricators market is driven by many factors, reflecting exposure to a number of markets, at times moving in different directions. These include private home improvement, public sector housing renovation, new housebuilding, commercial new build and refurbishment. Many door and window fabricators have responded to consumer market demand by broadening their range with alternative materials, styles and technical improvements to capture preferences which have included greater thermal and security features as well as triple glazing and increased colour options.

The commercial glazing market has experienced steady demand in recent years with office construction in particularly a key driver of growth. However, continued over-capacity in the industry, especially in the PVCu sector, is resulting in intense competition for business mainly amongst the larger retail suppliers. The market for residential windows is largely driven by demand in the replacement sector. Value growth 2015-17 for residential windows was good as manufacturer, distributor and materials price increases were applied, however from H2 2017 both volume and value growth has slowed due to lower levels of demand.

The residential entrance doors sector has benefitted from sustained demand from the replacement sector, but increased competition has led to some squeezing of value growth. Following significant growth in 2016, the market for curtain walling has flattened in 2017 and H1 18 as demand from the commercial offices, in particular higher value glazed facades, has slowed.

The supply structure in the overall door and window market remains very fragmented, comprising a mix of vertically integrated retail glazing companies, PVCu trade fabricators and fabricator/installers, aluminium systems fabricator/installers, bespoke glazing contractors, composite door manufacturers, commercial glazing specialists, roof light manufacturers, steel window manufacturers and major joinery companies, as well as others.

There has been some corporate activity in the sector in recent years, along with major changes among the larger firms. In particular, the aluminium sector has experienced a period of consolidation.

Jane Tarver of AMA Research said: “In 2018, the prospects for this industry in the short-medium term remain challenging with little or no growth forecast 2018-19 as the economy remains volatile with some uncertainty over short term prospects. Longer term the outlook is mildly optimistic with lower growth forecast than in previous years but for a return to average growth of around 2-3% towards the end of the forecast period.”

Residential new work is forecast to provide opportunities within the window and door market but with RMI and residential replacement programmes likely to be somewhat depressed by lower consumer confidence levels and spending. The non-residential sector is facing additional challenges and is likely to see subdued growth in the commercial glazing sector, and decline in other sectors such as ground floor treatments. Medium term prospects for the commercial windows sector will be determined by the return of confidence in the private commercial construction sectors, particularly for offices.

Ultimately, the industry is mature and, in the longer term, heavily dependent on replacement demand in the residential sector, a market which into the medium-term will be influenced by aspects such as security, aesthetics, improved thermal performance/energy efficiency and product failure, which will remain the key reasons for replacing windows and doors.

The ‘Door and Window Fabricators Market Report - UK 2018-2022’ report is available now and can be ordered online at www.amaresearch.co.uk or by calling 01242 235724.

Roofing Market - 5 Key Facts

• The roof coverings market is estimated to be worth over £1.3bn at manufacturers' selling prices (MSP).
• Overall, the roofing market increased by 7% in 2016, though growth in 2017 has been lower.
• The largest product sectors are metal roofing systems and concrete roof tiles, which accounted for respectively 29% and 21% of the total market by value in 2016.
• In terms of distribution, the leading channel is roofing merchants and specialist distributors with a share of 50-55%, though this varies by product type.
• Forecasts for the UK roofing market are modest with growth of just 2% expected over the next 4 years.

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

UK bathroom market to grow by 12% over the next four years

The UK market for bathroom products achieved value growth of around 3% in 2017. The pace of growth has lessened over the last 12 months compared to the previous 2-3 years, with modest growth expected in 2018 and 2019. The main factors influencing the market include lower levels of consumer and business confidence, in turn impacting on demand for bathroom products. Overall market growth between 2017 and 2021 is forecast at around 12%.

Baths and sanitaryware is the largest sector of the bathroom products market, followed by bathroom accessories, taps and mixers, bathroom furniture and whirlpool/spa systems. In terms of trends, demand for quality bathroom products with additional features is expected to remain significant, and will be supported by a greater level of replacement purchases as consumers upgrade to higher value solutions, with aesthetics continuing to exert a notable influence on consumer choice.

The growing consumer preference for minimalist, wall-hung and counter top designs will impact volume demand for sanitaryware. This trend will support the growth of prefabricated solutions, installation frames and concealed plastic cisterns. Taps and mixers will increasingly be used as a means of differentiation in domestic and certain commercial environments, with higher quality finishes and contemporary styling.

Popular products include space saving solutions such as wall-hung sanitaryware, slim-line wash basins and short-projection furniture. While in the baths sector, compact shower baths, small freestanding baths and space-saving ‘back-to-wall’ D shaped/skirted baths, continue to gain share.

In the bathroom furniture sector there is increasing demand for clever ‘invisible’ storage solutions that ensure that the bathroom remains tidy and clutter free. The market for bathroom accessories is likely to remain positive as consumers buy accessories as an easy and cost-effective way to update and personalise their bathroom.

Going forward, new housebuilding volumes are set to stabilise despite the economic uncertainty. Prospects remain positive in this sector and will support demand for bathroom products installed in new build homes, while RMI activity is expected to be more constrained in the next 2-3 years. Commercial private work will also remain a key driver of activity across a number of applications, including hotels and leisure.

 “The wide variation in UK bathroom size will continue to provide opportunities for product development to suit the various types of bathrooms such as ensuite, cloakroom installations etc.” said Hayley Thornley, Research Manager at AMA Research.

 “Modern, digital and advanced technology, such as digital taps and sensors to control temperature and flow, motion sensor LED mirrors and Bluetooth entertainment systems, will become more widely used in the bathroom as consumers and businesses become increasingly aware of their benefits. Consumers are demanding quality products that will last and use the internet to search for the best deals available.”

There will also continue to be a significant demand for inclusive bathroom products that are both practical and easy to use, such as low-level or walk-in baths for easy access, wall-hung sanitaryware for easier manoeuvrability, thermostatic and lever operated tapware controls, and shower toilets. This will be boosted by the Disabled Facility Grant (DFG) provision to pay for improvements such as accessible showering facilities, which is set to double over the next 2-3 years to over £500 million in 2019/20.

The ‘Bathroom MarketReport – 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.

Waste Management Market Report - UK 2017-2021 Analysis - 5 Key Facts

• By value, the market for controlled waste management is estimated at just under £10bn in 2016.

• EfW, landfill and other non-hazardous waste treatment & disposal services are estimated to account for up to 45% of industry revenues.

• It is estimated the largest overall revenue stream for waste management contractors is the non-municipal sector.   

• The top 5 companies represent over 40% of the turnover in the industry.

• Almost 50% of CIW is recovered for recycling, with the retail & wholesale industry accounting for around 25% of the total.

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

The UK roofing market sees growth of 7% in 2016

The overall UK roofing market has grown by 7% in value terms in 2016, according to a new report by AMA Research. Since 2012, demand for roof coverings has been supported by the growth of housebuilding and domestic RMI, along with increased output in a number of commercial and industrial new build & refurbishment markets. However, tendering for commercial and housebuilding roofing projects has remained highly competitive, and year on year performance has varied.

Overall market trends are largely determined by levels of demand for concrete roof tiles and metal panel systems, which together accounted for around half of total sales in 2016. While concrete tiles are predominantly used on commercial buildings, the main source of increasing demand has been volume housebuilding. Demand for roof tiles and slates is relatively lower within the commercial and industrial newbuild & major re-roofing and RMI sectors, with flat roofing and metal roofing systems being used to an increasing extent.

Distribution of roofing materials varies significantly between different product sectors. Builders’ merchants and roofing merchants are the key routes to market for suppliers of concrete and clay tiles, while independent importers and distribution networks are the main channels in the roofing slates sector, as the majority of products are imported. With flat roofing systems mainly used on commercial buildings, the main channels are roofing merchants and direct sales, while direct supply from the manufacturer is the main route to market for profiled metal roofing projects, which often require bespoke design, structures and close collaborations with manufacturers.

Several factors are threatening the construction market, and are likely to have a knock-on effect for the roofing market. Uncertainty following Brexit and the general election result appears to be undermining confidence within the UK construction industry at present, with Q2 2017 state of trade data from the Construction Products Association and ONS new orders and output statistics, suggesting major investors are starting to hold off from funding major commercial and industrial construction projects. Since 2015, an acceleration in the shortage of skilled roofers, which is likely to be exacerbated by the Brexit issue and a potential reduction of EU workers, has resulted in a demand for higher wages and contributed towards an overall reduction in margins.

However, there are also a number of positive factors supporting the UK’s roofing market. A significant share of roofing materials goes into RMI and replacement projects, which support the market even during difficult economic times. The markets for EPDM and other types of single ply membranes (SPMs) have grown strongly over the last half dozen years, also taking some share from bitumen sheets within the commercial sector.

Keith Taylor, Director at AMA research, said: “The housebuilding market remains very positive in the sense that demand levels are high, and the Government has indicated that it wants to support the affordable sector with various schemes, something which should have a positive impact on the roofing sector. In addition, a large part of the roofing sector is driven by repair and maintenance and as such the market value has good support, even if the wider construction market turns more negative.”

Bearing these factors in mind, we forecast a stabilisation in demand for roofing products through to 2021, with more positive market growth in the latter part of the forecast period, reflecting some improvement in confidence and the economy as the impact of the EU exit settles down. As such the overall market is forecast grow by a very modest 4% between 2016 and 2021.

The ‘Roofing 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.

Home Automation Market Report - UK 2017-2021 Analysis - 5 Key Facts

• The Home Automation market is currently considered to be in the initial growth stage, with market value forecast to increase by 55% between 2017 and 2021. 

• Smart heating controls and linked devices account for 36% of the market. This has increased significantly in recent years. 

• The forecast growth of “the Internet of Things” –IoT- (‘smart’ household gadgets) is likely to result in increased connectivity within home networks.  

• The evolution of voice control devices is likely to drive more interest in home automation. 

• The market is highly fragmented with 10 suppliers accounting for around 50% of the market.

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