Expectations Stay Strong for Window Fabricators
On balance 28% (the difference between 42% who sold more and 14% who sold less) of window fabricators improved sales in April 2006 compared with March 2006. Mid-sized companies (net 66%) did best but small firms (20%) also reported growth. However, large companies (net 40%) sold less. By region, those in the South and Midlands (net 36%) did better than fabricators in the North (11%).
On balance, overall, window fabricators saw no change in sales in April 2006 compared with April 2005 (chart 1). However, mid-sized firms (27%) saw an increase. Across the country the majority of those interviewed reported little change.
Forecasts:
A net 58% of fabricators expect to sell more windows and doors in May 2006 compared with April 2006. Mid-sized companies (net 73%) are most optimistic but large (60%) and small firms (50%) are also bullish. Those in the Midlands (net 69%) and South (60%) are most confident but firms in the North (47%) are also hopeful.
Similarly, a balance of 57% of fabricators expect to sell more in May 2006 compared with May 2005 (chart 2). Large companies (net 80%) are most confident but small (56%) and mid-sized firms (50%) are also optimistic. Across the country, fabricators in all regions anticipate growth.
Confidence:
A balance of 30% of fabricators are more optimistic now about the overall prospects for the window market than three months ago. Mid-sized firms (40%) and fabricators in the North (41%) are most positive.
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The monthly tracker survey is produced by Michael Rigby Associates and sponsored by WHS Halo in conjunction with The Fabricator. The aim is to keep a finger on the market pulse between the regular quarterly reports, and to monitor fabricators' views and expectations of market movements.
The survey covers a representative sample of 50 window fabricators. Telephone interviews took place between the 12th and 16th May 2006 across a balanced spread of size of firm, geographical area and type of fabricator. For survey details or further information contact Lucia Di Stazio, Michael Rigby Associates (01453 521621). © Copyright Michael Rigby Associates 2006 |
