San Jose, California (PRWEB) April 03, 2012 -- Follow us on LinkedIn – With long-term fundamentals for new home construction in developed markets still remaining weak, global plumbing fitting and fixtures market is expected to take time to post the much awaited robust growth. Currently the market is challenged by flat housing conditions in North America and difficult economic environment in Europe. As the economy is not expected to be robust in the near term, major share of the market revenues, particularly in North America would continue to be generated from repair and remodeling activity. Investment on high value items would remain deferred till the industry witnesses a marked improvement in employment levels, consumer confidence, and housing prices. Majority of home upgrade projects center upon kitchens and bathrooms, driving the demand for fittings and fixtures of a wide array. In Europe, the economic slowdown amidst the sovereign debt crisis continues to take its toll on the construction market. As the region would take time to emerge from its vicious cycle of debt and precipitating business confidence, near-to-medium term growth in the construction industry is expected to remain modest.
As stated by the new market research report on Plumbing Fittings and Fixtures, Asia-Pacific represents the largest regional market. The region is forecast to advance at the fastest pace driven by increased non-residential and residential construction activity in the major economies of China and India. Growth in the Chinese construction industry is expected to gain further momentum with local government announcing subsidies to invigorate home sales. Other regions that are expected to post large gains include Latin America and the Middle East.
Currently companies are gearing up to face the headwinds of economic uncertainty with rationalization moves such as business consolidation, plant closures, renewed focus on strengthening brand positions, introduction of new products at affordable costs, e-business, improvement in cost structure and productivity. Another strategy is the geographic expansion of product lines in emerging markets by setting up of branch offices in these regions. Environmental awareness is further pepping up the demand for water and energy efficient products. For instance, certain regions have witnessed higher demand for dual flush toilets as well as high efficiency showers on account of the requirement to comply with water conservation rules. Fashion and styling aspects continue to remain the prominent market propellants, particularly in the aftermarket segment.
By product group, Plumbing Fixtures accounts major share of the global market. Particularly, sophisticated fixtures would become increasingly popular with urban population as their disposable incomes rise and their desire for luxurious bathrooms becomes stronger. In the long term, demand for Plumbing Fittings is expected to be relatively stronger led by product segments including sink fittings and single lever fittings. Expansion of sanitation networks and water supply to rural areas will throw new market opportunities from the emerging markets.