Increased spending on higher value home improvements is benefiting the conservatory market, according to a new study.
AMA Research says that following several poor years, the market started to recover in 2012/13 and was estimated to be worth around £620m by the end of last year.

AMA says that over the last few years, the market has become more sophisticated in terms of product range and offers more options for a bespoke project - glazed extensions which might have a solid or a glass roof, orangeries, verandas, loggias, etc.

Key product features which have become more important include improved thermal efficiency, high specification self-cleaning glass, coloured frames and bi-fold opening doors.

In terms of frame materials, pvc-u continues to dominate, but timber has a reasonable share and has retained its attraction for many homeowners thanks to its natural appearance and sustainability credentials. Aluminium remains a more expensive option, and while it has retained a niche share in the domestic market aluminium bi-fold doors have gained widespread consumer acceptance.

Key suppliers are a mix of national retail brands, local suppliers and specialist conservatory installers. However, in broad terms, the supply structure for conservatories remains very complex and fragmented, says AMA. Consolidation is likely to remain a feature of the conservatory market, though a trend to more bespoke installations provides opportunities for local companies.

Main channels of distributions are replacement window companies, garden centres, DIY outlets, conservatory specialists, builders and online. In the 'self-build' conservatory sector, the distribution focus has switched from DIY outlets to online conservatory specialists, which offer a wider range of product options than those offered by DIY outlets.

The market for conservatories and glazed extensions is forecast to see relatively buoyant rates of growth in the medium term, and is expected to reach a value of over £760m in 2018, dependent on continuing recovery in the housing market and consumer confidence remaining buoyant.

"In the longer term, our forecasts indicate steady growth, but we do not expect to see a return to the peak volumes achieved in the early to mid 2000s," said AMA director Andrew Hartley.