A continuing reduction in on-site skill levels is driving the change to easier installation, leading to more flexibility of application amongst pipes and fittings, according to a new report.
This is one of a number of major trends impacting the UK pipes and fittings market, according to the AMA Research report.

The report on the 'UK Pipes and Fittings market for 2009-13' states the market is estimated to be worth £729 million, at manufacturers selling prices in 2008.

The market being analysed in the document, includes domestic and light commercial plumbing pipe systems, rainwater goods and soil & waste products.

The plumbing pipe systems sector accounts for 66% of the industry.

Within this sector there has been a consistent shift away from copper pipe and fittings, which have traditionally dominated these markets. The report says flexible plastic pipe systems have now obtained a reputation for reliability, with improvements in manufacturing technology and ongoing material development.

Push-fit and press-fit fittings are also more popular, with considerable savings made on installation time.

The shift to more use of modern methods of construction is driven by an increased demand for greater numbers of flats and smaller properties.

The new report notes the switch from housing to flats during the last eight years, from around 19% of total completions in Great Britain in 2000 to over 48% in 2008, has been key. A government forecast that 5 million new homes will be needed in Britain in the next 20 years is set to influence the type of plumbing, pipe and fittings used, with a reduced demand for rainwater goods driven by the increased number of flats and apartments, while there may well be more demand for waste pipe and fittings.

Growing off-site and other modern manufacturing methods are likely to influence the greater use of push-fit and modular products.

With a greater focus on sustainability and the environment throughout the production and distribution chain, pipes and fittings manufacturers are looking for materials and processes that are not harmful to the environment and that will be available for future generations to use.

2009 estimates indicate a decrease in the market of 12%, reflecting the impact of the UK recession on the housing and construction market. AMA's report states that although the market is likely to remain depressed in 2009/10, it should develop positively in the medium to longer term.

AMA Research's 'Pipe and Fittings Market - UK 2009-2013' report is available at www.amaresearch.co.uk.