Confidence Returns as Window Sales Recover in August
A net 20% (the difference between 38% who sold more and 18% who sold less) of window fabricators reported increased sales in August 2006 compared with July 2006. Large (net 40%) and small firms (23%) did better than mid-sized companies (7%). A net 42% of fabricators in the Midlands sold more windows and doors than those in the South or North (5%).
A balance of 26% of window fabricators also saw a rise in sales in August 2006 compared with the same month of 2005 (chart 1). All large firms interviewed reported increased sales but mid-sized companies (net 20%) and small fabricators (16%) also sold more. Fabricators across the country saw an improvement.
Forecasts:
Window fabricators remain upbeat with a net 46% expecting to sell more in September 2006 compared with August 2006. Fabricators across the country anticipate better sales over the period.
Similarly a net 40% of fabricators forecast an increase in sales in September 2006 compared with the same month last year (chart 2). Firms of all sizes, particularly large companies (80%) are bullish. Similarly, fabricators in all regions expect to sell more.
Confidence:
A balance of 32% of fabricators are more optimistic now about the overall prospects for the window market than three months ago. Small and large firms (net 40%) are most confident. Companies in the Midlands and North (net 43%) are more positive than fabricators in the South (15%).
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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 14th and 19th September 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 |
