Steady Sales for Window Fabricators

Sales:

A net 16% (the difference between 42% who sold more and 26% who sold less) of window fabricators reported increased sales in October 2006 compared with September 2006. Mid-sized (net 34%) and small firms (13%) did better but for a balance of 20% of large companies, sales dropped. Fabricators in all regions experienced growth.

A balance of 16% of window fabricators also saw a rise in sales in October 2006 compared with October 2005 (chart 1). Again, while small (26%) and mid-sized firms (20%) saw increases, sales fell for a net 60% of large companies. Fabricators across the country (net 16%) saw an improvement.

Forecasts:

Window fabricators remain confident. A net 6% expected to sell more windows and doors in November 2006 compared with October 2006. Mid-sized (net 20%) and small firms (7%) were positive, but large firms (40%) forecasted a fall in sales. Fabricators in the South (15%) and North (11%) anticipated selling more but on balance 16% of those in the Midlands expected sales to decrease.

A net 18% of fabricators forecasted an increase in sales in November 2006 compared with November 2005 (chart 2). Again, mid-sized (33%) and small fabricators (20%) anticipated better sales but 40% of large firms expected slaes to fall. Those in the South and North (net 21%) were more positive than those in the Midlands (8%).

Confidence:

A balance of 8% of fabricators are more optimistic now about the overall prospects for the window market than three months ago. Mid-sized firms (net 34%) are more confident but a balance of 3% of small firms are less optimistic. Companies in the North and Midlands (net 17%) are positive but on balance 5% of firms in the South are less 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 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 8th and 15th November 2006 across a balanced spread of size of firm, geographical area and type of fabricator. For survey details or further information contact Jenny Reilly, Michael Rigby Associates (01453 521621). © Michael Rigby Associates 2006