Outlook in Italy’s window market is slightly better than in Germany. Although the market decreased in 2007 and in 2008 according to a study by Interconnection Consulting (by -1,4% and -1,2%). The recession is not as dramatic as in Germany. Until 2001 the average growth rate is forecasted at -0,6%.
The window market follows the general economic development. The market drop will be positively influenced by the renovation sector, which will grow further because of tax advantages.
Wood still dominating
The window market is characterised by a strong competition between wood and metal. The wood segment represents one of the largest segments in Western Europe and has about 48% market share, but is losing share. PVC is losing shares now too, but this is only a temporary effect and will be followed by a phase of moderate growth rates. No surprise for metal windows: this market segment has been fluctuating for years and will continue to do so in the future. Combinations, although the smallest segment by far, see constantly rising quantities.
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