New Year, New Confidence in the Window Market

Sales:

On balance 4% (the difference between 36% who sold more and 32% who sold less) of fabricators sold more windows and doors in January 2006 compared with December 2005. Large (60%) and mid-sized companies (33%) did best. Small firms (20%) reported a drop.

Regionally, a net 16% of fabricators in the Midlands and 6% in the North increased sales. A net 5% of companies in the South saw sales fall.

A net 12% of fabricators also sold more in January 2006 compared with January 2005 (see Chart 1). Large firms (net 80%) and companies in the North (35%) reported the most widespread growth.

Forecasts:

A balance of just under six in ten fabricators expected better sales in February 2006 compared with January 2006. Expectations are strong across fabricators of all sizes and in all regions. A net 28% of fabricators also forecasted higher sales in February 2006 compared with the same period in 2005 (chart 2).

Confidence:

A balance of 14% of fabricators are more confident now about the overall prospects for the window market than three months ago. Large companies and firms in the South and North are most confident.

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 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 20th and 22nd February 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 on 01453 521621.