Plumbers’ merchants market in the UK worth over £4.2bn

The plumbers’ merchants market was worth an estimated £4.2bn in 2017, representing growth of around 2% from 2016. The overall trend in recent years has been positive, and early indications for 2018 are for a continuation of the modest recovery experienced from Q3 2017 onwards, although there is still a degree of restructuring activity, as major players adapt to changing conditions and slowing growth in some key end use sectors.

Although the plumbers’ merchants market has experienced 5 years of growth since construction output recovered in 2013, there has been considerable variation in the rates of growth between the various end use sectors. Sectors that have been strong include housebuilding, while residential RMI activity, a significant sector for plumbing & heating materials, has been more modest. Some non-domestic sectors, such as infrastructure have remained positive, but in the education, commercial offices and healthcare sectors there was an overall fall in output in 2017.

Expectations are for more modest annual rates of growth to 2022, for both new construction and non-residential RMI. Skills shortages remain critical and are a major concern in the plumbing and heating sector, with the skills gap said to be one of the biggest threats facing the UK’s plumbing industry.

The plumbers merchants’ market, which comprises national, regional and local merchants, is dominated by four major merchant organisations, which together account for an estimated 65-70% share, in value terms. These firms operate via a number of subsidiaries, each supplying a range of plumbing and building products.

The main competitors for the merchants are the home improvement retail and specialist outlets, as well as manufacturers and suppliers that deal direct with the construction trade. There has been strong competition from alternative suppliers, particularly online companies, retail outlets and DIY multiples, which is being driven by a shift in customer buying behaviour, with online shopping via PCs and laptops - as well as via mobile phones and tablets - becoming increasingly popular among tradespeople.

Some of the major nationals have responded to recent challenges in the plumbing and heating sector by restructuring and streamlining their operations, which has led to a number of branch closures, as well as the opening of new, more efficient outlets, enhancement of online and/or multi-channel offerings and a stronger focus on digital technologies. This focus on e-commerce has helped to offset some of the shift to internet-only distributors.

Prospects for plumbers’ merchants are relatively positive, although current political uncertainties surrounding the UK’s exit from the EU and the consequences in terms of trade, business investment and the availability of skilled labour are already affecting growth, and will continue to do so in the short to medium term. While construction activity and output levels will continue to increase, the rate of growth is expected to fall and remain relatively modest to the end of the forecast period.

A stronger focus on energy efficiency and water saving will continue to drive growth in the plumbing and heating sector, providing new opportunities for merchants, and a growing number of merchants have already expanded their ranges to include renewable energy and sustainable heating products as well as water saving solutions. Ongoing changes to building regulations will also boost demand for higher specification products.

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

Shower Market - 5 Key Facts

• The shower equipment market is expected to grow by over 13% in the next 4 years.
• Electric shower controls account for the greatest proportion of the controls market by volume with 51% of the market.
• Shower screens account for around 16% of the enclosures, screens and trays market by value in 2017.
• Traditional enclosure shapes account for around 52% of the enclosure market by value, though wetrooms/glass panels and walk-ins are gaining share.
• The shower accessories market is expected to grow by around 19% over the next 4 years.

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

Smart Technology an important growth driver in the UK Shower Market

In 2017, the value of the shower equipment market is estimated to have seen a moderate increase of around 2%, according to a new report by AMA Research. This follows a similarly modest increase of 3% in 2016. The level of penetration for showers has climbed significantly since the late 1990’s to reach around 90% in 2016, with at least one shower installation in the majority of UK households. Continued steady growth of around 2-4% per year is currently forecast to 2021.

Following two years of good growth due to increasing levels of new house building boosting demand and relatively buoyant consumer confidence supporting RMI activity, the shower equipment market was more subdued in 2016 and 2017, with 5% growth achieved over the two years. Uncertainty surrounding the Brexit process has impacted on business and consumer confidence, which in turn could impact negatively on new construction starts and RMI activity in the next 2-3 years in some end-use sectors.

Shower controls account for the greatest proportion of the shower equipment market with 46% share by value in 2016. Enclosures, screens and trays account for somewhat less than the shower controls sector, while the maturing shower market and higher level of shower usage, has led to some share growth in replacement products, such as shower accessories.

In recent years, product development and improvement in the shower equipment market has focused on quality and design with a trend towards higher value products and contemporary styles. Demand for digital showers have also shown good growth as the use of ‘smart’ technology in UK homes becomes more prevalent, with plumbing installers also increasingly familiar with digital showers and the installation benefits they can offer.

As the shower market matures there are greater levels of replacement purchases leading to product upgrade and added value opportunities. An increasing number of shower products are now designed specifically for retrofit purposes, such as electric showers with multiple cable/water entry points and mixer showers with standard pipe centres.

Demand for ‘inclusive’ showering solutions is growing, as increasing numbers of elderly and disabled people are now living at home, creating demand for accessible solutions that make the bathroom easier to use and more functional. For example, walk-in enclosures or wetroom areas, level access trays, thermostatic shower controls with easy-to-use controls, shower seats, grab rails etc.    

With environmental issues increasingly in focus, water saving is also becoming an important consideration. With over one third of UK homes on a water meter, the demand for water efficient shower controls is increasing. The addition of the Water Label on shower packaging has also made consumer product comparison of the water use between similar products easier and more transparent.

Hayley Thornley, Research Manager at AMA Research said: “Going forward the market is expected to increase by around 13% between 2018-2021. New housebuilding volumes are set to continue increasing despite the uncertainty currently surrounding the UK's exit from the EU, and prospects remain positive in this sector, supporting demand for showers installed in new build homes. In the commercial sector demand for showering equipment is likely to emulate from private new build and RMI activity in the hotels sector, care homes and health & fitness clubs/gyms.”

The shower equipment market will continue to fragment and the number of own-label products, often sold via the internet, is likely to increase. Online retailers are becoming significantly more important as consumers increasingly use the internet to source the best deals, but manufacturers are also selling spare parts and accessories direct to the consumer online.

Competition from non-UK suppliers is also set to grow, and pricing pressures are likely to remain intense due to the high level of imported product and the growing number of competitive distribution channels such as the internet, home improvement multiples and other major retailers.

The ‘Shower 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.

Smart heating controls drive growth in the UK central heating market

UK domestic central heating market is substantial, with an estimated total value of around £1.1bn at manufacturers’ prices in 2015. The market saw a notable increase in 2013, with demand in 2014 also reasonably positive, though performance has been more subdued in 2015/16, reflecting the withdrawal of the ECO scheme and the Green Deal, which has affected boiler sales in particular. However, the market has benefitted from the growth of smart heating controls in the past 2-3 years and demand from the housebuilding sector has continued to increase.

While the market is mature with central heating installed in around 92% of UK homes, growth potential still exists, particularly through smart heating innovation, used to improve energy efficiency and control. The UK domestic central heating market has also benefited in recent years from increasing health and safety regulations, revised building regulations and environmental legislation. This has stimulated product innovation and development in all sectors of the market.

The widespread introduction of smart heating controls has also supported demand, with all of the Big 6 energy companies having added a smart thermostat to their home energy management portfolio. UK householders are becoming much more environmentally aware and are looking towards smart heating solutions in order to minimise energy usage and to save money. Factors which have limited opportunities for growth include the continuing trend towards greater levels of property insulation, driven by further 2014 revisions to Part L of the Building Regulations, which have tended to reduce the overall heating load.

The boiler sector dominates the product mix with around 60% of sales, followed by radiators, conventional heating controls and circulator pumps, with smart heating controls accounting for a smaller but growing share. With central heating now being mature, the largest application area is refurbishment/replacement with around 80%, while new build and first time installations account for a relatively small share of the market. The majority of products are therefore distributed via trade channels such as merchants and electrical wholesalers. However, DIY multiples and online retailers are also important distribution channels, and an increasing amount of products are sold via energy companies and into OEMs.

Keith Taylor, Director of AMA Research said: “The future performance of the UK domestic heating market will be influenced by overall trends in housebuilding, home improvement, fuel prices, energy efficiency legislation, renewable technologies, and technological developments. With the evolving trend towards smart IoT devices in the home, the development of smart heating controls will have a significant impact on the overall domestic central heating market.”

There also continues to be significant opportunities to upgrade existing boilers to the more fuel-efficient condensing models. Around 40% of all boilers installed in the UK are non-condensing models. However, there will still be many homeowners who will continue to demand more conventional solutions. Real benefits such as ease of use and convenience will continue to be the primary focus of many conventional heating controls suppliers.

The outlook for the UK domestic central heating market in late 2016 remains relatively flat, with an uncertain UK economy following the UK ‘Brexit’ vote. However, more steady growth is anticipated from 2018 onwards, driven by the replacement sector and the increasing concern regarding energy efficiency and energy costs etc. By 2020, it is estimated that the UK domestic central heating market will have increased by 14% in value terms, compared to 2016.

The ‘Domestic Central Heating Market Report – Focus on Smart Heating Controls - 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.

Plumbers merchants market forecast to increase by 4% in 2016

The plumbers merchant market was worth an estimated £4bn in 2015, having recovered strongly in recent years. The market value declined during 2011/12, reaching a low point in 2012. From 2013 onwards, demand has increased leading to greater demand for plumbing materials, bathroom and shower products, and the plumbers’ merchants market is forecast to grow by around 4% in 2016.

Increasing demand has been due to the improving economic climate in general since 2013, with demand increasing for both new work and RMI activity. Output growth, which has been particularly strong during the past 2 years, was also experienced across most construction sub-sectors, including the housing and commercial sectors, such as offices, retail and entertainment and leisure.

However, price competition remains fierce and this may influence margins going forward. In order to differentiate themselves, some plumbers merchants have invested in improving the overall customer experience through enhanced service, such as extended opening times, greater availability of stock and heightened promotional activity. Many have also expanded their online presence, to ensure that they compete with rising internet sales. The growth of multi-channel merchanting, which combines physical premises with an online store, is forecast to continue.

Consolidation has been a feature of the marketplace in recent years, as nationals have acquired smaller regional operations in order to extend their reach and range of services. However, many regional and independent merchants have performed well, with some expanding their number of branches to improve their product offering and stock levels to meet local needs. This has been coupled with a focus on facilities which appeal to the public, not just the trade, such as bathroom and kitchen showrooms.

At present, the price of imported goods is increasing due to exchange rate fluctuations – something which will contribute to an uplift in market value in the short term. The issue is likely to affect a significant number of product sectors in the longer term.

It is extremely difficult to forecast the impact of the outcome of the EU Referendum on the economy going forward. Several economic forecasts suggest that the UK economy will start to slow, with business and consumer confidence affected, potentially with lower GDP growth in 2017 and 2018. The situation may improve after this, depending on the outcome of trade negotiations, both within and outside the EU, which have yet to take place.

“While there are indications of a slowdown in growth in the housing and commercial sectors from mid to late-2016, the plumbers’ merchants market is still forecast to increase by around 4% compared with 2015, with a further 2-3% per annum expected from 2017 onwards” said Keith Taylor, Director of AMA Research. “However, the market value remains below levels seen in 2007.”

Going forward, the market value is likely to increase in the short term, boosted by price increases, however, the outlook is more uncertain for the longer term. A strong demand for housing and an undersupply of homes is likely to continue to be a key driver supporting the plumbers merchant market in the medium to long term.

The ‘Plumbers Merchants 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.

Internet sales of plumbing products in the UK increased by 28% in 2015

The internet is the fastest growing distribution channel of the overall UK plumbing and heating products market and has experienced strong growth levels in the last 5 years. In 2015, the internet distribution market for plumbing products increased by 28% on the previous year. Shower controls and bathroom taps represent the largest sector of the internet plumbing market, followed by bathroom furniture and accessories, baths & sanitaryware, heating products such as boilers and standard radiators, shower enclosures and screens & trays.

It is estimated that in 2015 around 80% of plumbing products transacted on the internet are through specialist online plumbing retailers, of which a majority are pure-play retailers that do not have a showroom and only trade online. There are now some very large online specialist distributors that account for significant shares. Non-specialists account for around 20% of the total internet plumbing market and include merchant/trade outlets, DIY multiples, marketplace websites such as Amazon and eBay, and other retail outlets. Non-specialists also include plumbing manufacturers that may make specific products available for consumers to buy online.

Key drivers include the increasing availability of internet access, increasing usage of mobile internet using smartphones and tablets, and the rise of online review sites and blogs, which is now considered the most trusted form of advertising among potential buyers. The UK is Europe’s leading e-retail economy and now has around 39 million adult users accessing the internet every day, and trade sources report that around one third of UK shoppers also now regularly check their mobiles devices for better prices whilst in a physical store. Other trends include an increase in ‘Click and Collect’ purchases, and an expectance of shorter delivery times with next day delivery often required, free shipping and free returns.

Own-label products sold on the internet are performing particularly well, and some leading specialist online plumbing retailers are exploiting this opportunity by exclusively supplying own-label lines. Other online retailers, however, have expanded the number of plumbing brands they offer in order to capture a wider audience. It is likely that the number of specialist internet plumbing suppliers will continue to consolidate as this market sector matures. An increasing number of pure-play online retailers may also offer a showroom facility in order to grow and compete with store-based specialist plumbing suppliers and non-specialists.

“While the level of internet access in households is likely to reach saturation point in the near future, online purchasing of heating and plumbing products is far from mature” said Keith Taylor, Director of AMA Research. “Consumers are already using the internet for purchases of individual items, in particular replacement products, but future growth is largely dependent on the uptake of online purchasing among plumbers and installers. This is likely to grow significantly as a result of the increasing use of mobile internet, improving quality of suppliers’ mobile websites or apps as well as the ability of installers’ existing supply chain to adapt to this behaviour and offer services such as Click and Collect.”

Even though the internet plumbing market has continued to increase as a result of an improving UK economy and housebuilding levels and the added convenience and low prices offered by online purchasing, forecasts indicate that the pace of growth will gradually start to slow down as this market matures. The timing of this change of pace is difficult to estimate, with ongoing technological developments influencing buyer behaviour, however, it is estimated that the UK internet plumbing and heating market will increase by over 52% between 2016 and 2020.

The ‘Internet Plumbing and Heating 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.

5% growth estimated in the UK Pipes and Fittings market for 2015

The UK pipes and fittings market has achieved good growth over the last 3 years and is estimated to have grown by 5% in 2015. Key factors that have influenced the market in recent years include improving levels of construction in the commercial and housing sectors and falling raw material prices, particularly for copper and oil. Since 2012, the market has grown by around 15%, suggesting that it has nearly recovered to the levels seen at its peak in 2007.

The plumbing pipe systems sector accounts for around 60% of the pipes and fittings market, as defined in AMA Research’s report, while the rainwater, soil and waste products sector accounts for the remaining 40% or so. Flexible plastic plumbing pipe systems are the dominant material used in hot and cold potable water installations, and although the majority of heating installations and refurbishment projects use copper pipe, the market for copper pipe has remained relatively static in recent years. There has also been steady growth in the demand for flame free and low-skill fittings such as plastic push-fit and press-fit pipe fittings.

Factors driving the growth of the plastic sector include technological developments and improved reliability, as well as the availability of a wider range of products and price. The focus on recycling and the use of recycled materials in the plastic sector has also increased in recent years. Underfloor heating has also increased in popularity between 2010 and 2015, and growth in this sector is likely to continue to have a positive impact on the market for plumbing pipe systems. In addition, with increasing health and safety legislation, there has been a continuing shift in the market towards flame free jointing.

PVC-U continues to dominate the above ground rainwater guttering, soil and waste pipework sector. There is continuing demand for seamless aluminium guttering and cast iron effect PVC-U guttering, which provides the effect of cast iron. Increasing pressure to conserve resources and mounting public concerns about the cost of water usage have also led to a growing interest in rainwater harvesting systems, and there is an increased interest in general in water management, supported by the heavy rainfall and more volatile weather patterns over the last 4 years, across the UK.

The main channel of distribution is via the builders’ merchants, which account for almost 50% of the distribution for pipes and fittings products. This is followed by specialist plumbing/roofing/drainage distributors, DIY multiples and other independent DIY/hardware stores with significant shares, while others include internet sales, catalogue sales and direct sales from OEM business.

“The outlook for the UK pipes and fittings market in 2016 is positive, supported by the growth of new construction levels and RMI expenditure. Private housing completions are forecast to experience steady growth in the medium to longer term, while the private commercial sector is likely to drive newbuild demand in the non-domestic market” said Keith Taylor, Director of AMA Research. “Growth sectors should include budget and luxury hotels, care homes and student accommodation, and there may also be opportunities in the education sector, where around 70% of washroom installations are over 20 years old and many heating systems are aged.”

Bathroom pods are commonly used in the student accommodation and budget hotel sectors, and offsite construction is likely to continue to grow, driven by skills shortages and the need to improve efficiency, providing an opportunity for pipes and fittings. The market is also likely to see a continued focus on sustainability and the environment, particularly in the domestic sector, something which will have an impact on the type of products and materials used. Products made from plastic are expected to continue to increase their share of the market, however, the price of plastics has continued to rise despite the recent fall in crude oil prices, and this may affect the plastics sector negatively in the short to medium term.

The ‘Pipes and 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.

Plumbing Contractors Market Report - Key Facts

Did you know that...

1. Indications for 2015 are positive for plumbing contractors and it is hoped the market will achieve value growth of around 6% during the year.
2. London & the South East represents the largest market for plumbing contracting services, accounting for 28% of all installations by value.
3. The majority of revenue at 65% is generated by small local and regional companies. The largest contractors account for an estimates 10% of the total market.
4. Significant plumbing contractor business in the South West include Robert Heath Heating and ALHCO Group. F.P Hurley & Sons, APO Chant Plumbing & Heating and Shackleton & Wintle.
5. The volume of plumbing contractor businesses has dropped in Northern Ireland over the last 3 years, the only region to have experienced a fall in this period.

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

Inclusive kitchen and bathroom products to grow by 20% to 2018

With the ageing UK population and the increasing number of people with disabilities, inclusively designed bathroom and kitchen products have been progressively installed in UK homes. In 2014, the inclusive bathroom and kitchen products market was estimated to be worth around £150 million at Manufacturers Selling Prices (MSP). This represents an increase of around 2% compared to the market size in 2013.

Between 2009 and 2012, the UK inclusive bathroom and kitchen products market was comparatively volatile in line with the uncertain economic situation at this time. However, since 2013 the market for these inclusively designed products has seen a notable increase, with demand picking up as the economy improves. This growth can be partly attributed to several changes in legislation that have been introduced by the Government in recent years and also the growing number of elderly and disabled people. In addition there has been a trend towards multi-generation households in the UK.

The showering facilities sector dominates the industry's sales as many baths are now being replaced by easy-access shower enclosures and wetroom areas. This is followed by bathroom accessories, toilet facilities, bathroom brassware and baths. In addition, inclusive kitchen facilities (excluding appliances) are estimated to be worth around £30m at MSP.

A significant proportion of the inclusive bathroom and kitchen products market represents direct sales from the specialist manufacturer or supplier to the end-user, which is common practice with specialised products. Other channels include merchants and distributors plus DIY multiples, many who offer own branded goods. In addition, the level of inclusive bathroom and kitchen products sold via online retailers has seen significant growth in recent years.

Key drivers for growth include the aging UK population and the number of multi-generation households in the UK increasing. The trend towards care in the community has resulted in increasing numbers of elderly and disabled people that remain living at home. These people require inclusive adaptations to assist them with their everyday requirements.

“The number of people aged 65 and over has increased by 17.3% since 2003 and the fastest growing household type in 2013 was households containing two or more families” said Keith Taylor, Director of AMA Research. “The shortage of affordable housing and the increase in elderly relatives in need of care are driving more families to house three generations in one property and this could lead to specialist kitchen and bathroom equipment being installed in a wider range of properties.”

The inclusive bathroom and kitchen market has been positively impacted the trend towards product solutions that are suitable for all users. As such, inclusive bathroom and kitchen products have become much more aesthetically pleasing. The focus is on functionality but style is also now an equally important consideration. With revisions to Part M of the Building Regulations and the Lifetime Homes Standard, inclusive products have been progressively installed in a wider range of end-use applications. These include domestic homes and commercial environments such as hospitals and schools.

The outlook for the UK inclusive bathroom and kitchen products market in Q4-2014 remains positive, with the continuing recovery in the UK economy and the related upturn in housebuilding and consumer confidence. However, with the election in mid-2015, uncertainties do exist regarding Government policy after this time.

 

By 2018 it is estimated that the UK inclusive bathroom and kitchen products market will be worth in excess of £180 million. This represents an increase of around 20% when compared to the estimated market size in 2014.

The ‘Inclusive Bathroom and Kitchen Products Market Report –UK 2014-2018 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.

UK Water Saving Plumbing Products Market growing rapidly

The UK water saving plumbing products market is estimated at £164 million at Manufacturers Selling Prices (MSP) in 2013, according to a new report by AMA Research.

During the period 2009-2012, the market for water saving plumbing products was relatively flat - in line with the difficult economic situation at this time. However, since 2013 the market for water saving plumbing products has seen an increase, with demand picking up as the economy and new housebuilding levels improve. The core product sectors of the UK water saving plumbing products market are water efficient bathroom products (87%) and water recycling systems (13%).

Water efficient bathroom products are distributed through a wide range of channels. The main distribution channel continues to be merchants with the DIY multiples also holding a substantial share. Other channels include bathroom specialists and online retailers. The vast majority of water recycling systems are distributed either through plumbing and drainage merchants or direct via water recycling specialists. There are also a growing number of online retailers operating in this market sector.

There is an increasing awareness and demand for water saving products in UK homes and businesses. Demands for water are continuing to rise and maintaining supplies to meet these demands is becoming increasingly difficult. The development of new housing in areas of water stress, population growth and a doubling in the number of single person households since the 1970’s have increased demand for water.

In addition, there has been a significant growth in the number of second bathrooms, en-suites and cloakrooms. In 2013, it is estimated that around 22% of all UK properties have two or more bathrooms and around 41% have two or more cloakroom / WC facilities.

The future performance of the water saving plumbing products market is likely to be driven by government legislative changes and growing concerns and attitudes towards water usage and its impact on the environment. The compulsory requirement for water meter installations in new housing and the introduction of The Water Label as standard on water-using bathroom products from summer 2014 will also increase awareness among householders of the benefits of water saving products.

“The replacement of inefficient WCs in particular will be motivated by more widespread water metering and the rising cost of water. Nearly two thirds of water is used in the bathroom either for showering, hand washing/bathing or flushing the toilet. With around 7 million inefficient high flush WCs still in use in the UK, there is a significant replacement opportunity that could achieve substantial water savings.” said Keith Taylor, Director at AMA Research. “Furthermore, most new-build schools, colleges, offices, government buildings, multi-residential and retail buildings will be designed to meet a higher BREEAM rating.”

Digital technology will also become more prevalent in UK bathrooms and play an important role in sustainability. For example, water efficient bathroom products that operate automatically with electronic sensors and digital systems that allow water flow to be controlled and run for a set period of time.

By 2018, the market value is forecast to be around £220 million, which represents an increase of around 35% compared to the market size in 2013.

The ‘Water Saving Plumbing Products Market Report – UK 2014-2018 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.