New opportunities?
According to Insight Data, the number of IGU (sealed unit) manufacturers in the UK has dropped in the last year, with some companies choosing to close their IGU production lines and buy-in units.
“Revisions to the Building Regulations last October, and further tightening of U-values from 2013, means many IGU manufacturers need significant investment to meet regulations and for some companies the volume they fabricate doesn’t justify this investment,” explained Insight’s data analyst, David Lewis.
As a result, the number of companies buying in sealed units has risen to over 10,000 – with some representing substantial volumes.
“Many fabricators, installers, trade-counter outlets and conservatory roof suppliers are reviewing their purchasing and marketing of glass at the moment because of regulatory changes and market forces,” David said. “Glass is now taking centre-stage in more marketing initiatives, from climate control and energy efficiency to the expanding triple glazing market.”
The Insight database has detailed information on the companies who buy in sealed units including their business activities and even volumes. The database is available on Salestracker, the online database software updated live in real-time by Insight’s research team.
