In 2023, the mattress market experienced a setback due to economic uncertainties, inflation, and rising costs. Mattress sales are also expected to continue stagnating in 2024. Between 2023 and 2027, Interconnection Consulting anticipates a slight increase in sales figures of 0.7% per year in the markets analyzed. In 2023, EU countries faced rising inflation, high interest rates, and an economic downturn, which were further exacerbated by high energy prices stemming from the ongoing crisis between Russia and Ukraine. These factors led to a 3.2% decline in mattress sales in Europe. The furniture industry, particularly the bedroom segment, continues to suffer from weak consumer demand and rising raw material costs. Additionally, the market has been indirectly affected by a decline in the new construction sector, as there is a correlation between new construction projects and increased demand for furnishings, including mattresses. Although the hotel industry is showing signs of recovery, it is not enough to offset the broader decline caused by economic uncertainty and inflation. Nevertheless, the European mattress market is expected to record minimal growth until 2027, with an average annual growth rate of 0.7%, corresponding to total sales of 48.1 million units. Sales in the markets surveyed are projected to increase by 3.3% per year to just under €12 billion by 2027. The strongest annual growth rates—2.0% and slightly above—are expected in Switzerland, Poland, and the United Kingdom. Conversely, sales figures in Turkey, Sweden, and Spain are expected to decline by 2027. Other major markets, such as France, Germany, and Italy, are expected to grow at an average annual rate of 0.5% to 0.7%, compared to the rest of Europe. Positive factors for future growth include improved economic conditions, the recovery of the tourism sector, and growing demand for orthopedic and environmentally friendly options. Country-Specific Preferences The mattress market has changed considerably in recent years, influenced by shifting consumer preferences and economic factors. Spring mattresses remain the dominant segment, holding a market share of around 50%. They are followed by foam mattresses with 31.1% and latex mattresses with 12.7%. Latex mattresses have established themselves as the preferred choice in countries such as France and Sweden, where they are valued for their comfort and sustainability. In Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, foam mattresses dominate the market. Consumer preferences are increasingly shifting towards eco-friendly, smaller, and more affordable mattresses, explains Katarina Kotlarova, the author of the study. Overall, the market share of orthopedic and medical mattresses is growing strongly and currently stands at 42.7% across Europe. The most important customer segment is the private residential sector, which accounts for around 70% of total sales. Hotels make up just under a quarter of total sales. Competitive Landscape The market is dominated by various players. This highly competitive environment requires manufacturers to remain adaptable and innovative in order to meet changing consumer demands. Consequently, many companies are forced to file for bankruptcy due to a lack of economic prospects. “As the industry adapts to these changes, understanding market dynamics and customer preferences will be critical for companies looking to gain market share and succeed in this evolving environment,” concludes Kotlarova. The study examined the following markets: Austria, Benelux, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Poland, Hungary, Romania, Sweden, Turkey, and the United Kingdom.

After hitting its bottom in 2023, the market for Sandwich panel has rebounded and is experiencing stable development in 2024. Market projections show 1.1% increase in value sales in 2024, reaching EUR 3,910.5 million. Quantity sales represent 125.8 million square meters, nearly 0.2% above the overall result from 2023 according to a recent market report by Interconnection.  

Gently landing after turbulent times

Pole position does not guarantee success

Product group preferences

Dominance in segment trends

Market competition landscape

Last year, more than 2 billion meters were sold in Europe’s Top 20 markets as the market for Sanitary Pipes & Fittings suffers by the declining housing market and other problems. The long-term growth trend remains intact and surface heating and cooling will become more important in the next few years. Regarding the material types, metal pipes will see its market shares decline from 18.2% in 2021 to 15.9% in 2027, as the latest study by InterConnection Consulting shows.   Radiator Connection Pipes Have, Are and Will Lose Market Shares The Sanitary Pipes and Fittings market is segmented into surface heating and cooling, radiator connections, and hot and cold water installations. The market share for radiator connections is expected to decline from 25.5% in 2021 to 23.5% by 2027, driven by Europe’s shift to energy-efficient heating solutions. However, the surface heating segment may not see consistent gains across all countries. In Germany, for example, the number of radiators installed in renovations has increased recently due to cost and ease of installation, leading to a temporary rise in market share. Nevertheless, the long-term outlook for surface heating and cooling pipes is strong, with a projected market share of 36.5% by 2027 in Europe.   Plastic Pipes Are The Most Popular Choice Plastic pipes hold a dominant market share of approximately 46%, with slight growth expected in the coming years. Multilayer pipes are the biggest gainers, projected to increase their market share from 35.3% in 2021 to 37.0% by 2027. Conversely, metal pipes are expected to decline in relevance due to rising prices for materials like copper and steel. Within the plastic segment, PEX (Crosslinked Polyethylene) commands the largest share, primarily used for surface heating and cooling systems, while multilayer pipes are favored for radiator connections and hot and cold water installations. Regional variations are notable; for instance, plastic pipes account for only about 11% of the market in Germany due to concerns over water quality, compared to 36% in the Czech Republic for the same application.   The Majority of Pipes Are Bought First by Wholesalers Most companies prefer to sell their products through wholesalers and retailers, with indirect distribution channels dominating the market. In Russia, these channels account for 68% of sales, while in Poland, nearly 100%. The average market share across Europe is about 94%. This dominance is driven by the convenience of a "one-stop-shop" for installers, efficient supply chains in countries like Norway, and the strong market power of building product stores in Germany and Switzerland.     Producers of sanitary pipes and fittings should strategically pivot towards developing plastic and multilayer pipes, particularly in the surface heating and cooling segment, while considering regional preferences for these materials. Implementing customer loyalty and retention programs, alongside fostering direct relationships with installers, will enhance market share in this growing segment.

Interconnection Consulting, a leading market research institute, has published its latest study "Industrial Doors in Europe 2024,” which reveals that the industrial door market in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland continues its decline with -2.3% drop-in units sold and a -0.6% contraction in market value. The study highlights a stark contrast between the countries: while Germany and Austria face continued declines driven by economic uncertainty and ripple effects from related industries, Switzerland defies the trend, showing growth in both units sold and market value, driven by a robust economy and a dynamic construction sector. 2024 marks another year of decline for the industrial door market in the region, with economic headwinds from inflation, rising material costs, and a slowdown in construction projects. While the market has struggled to recover post-pandemic, growth is expected to resume by 2026, as the construction sector stabilizes and consumer confidence improves. By 2027, the market is projected to reach €892 million, growing at an average rate of 4.3% per year. The competitive landscape is further complicated by the influx of low-cost producers from Asia, which has intensified price competition, forcing European manufacturers to innovate and reduce costs. The poor performance of the construction sector has further exacerbated the market's struggles, as new projects have slowed, and major infrastructure developments remain on hold. The resulting price war, triggered by the entry of low-cost producers from Asia, has forced manufacturers to lower prices despite increasing raw material costs. This has squeezed profit margins, leading to tighter pricing strategies and a downward trend in the market. Despite these challenges, industrial door producers have shown resilience by doubling down on innovation. Companies are focusing on developing new materials and compounds that can reduce costs for consumers, while investing heavily in digital solutions. These innovations include smart access systems, advanced remote monitoring and automation via mobile devices, and security technologies that integrate facial recognition and artificial intelligence. In terms of market segmentation, sectional doors remain the market leader with a 58.0% share, followed by high-speed doors at 17.0% and rolling doors in third place. Steel continues to be the dominant material, making up 64.7% of the market, with an expected increase to 65.2% by 2027. Direct distribution channels maintain a commanding 86.9% share of the market, while renovation projects slightly outpace new installations, accounting for 50.4% of total sales. The dominance of large multinational companies like Hörmann, ASSA Abloy, Novoferm, Domoferm, Teckentrup, Condoor, and Ryterna is becoming more apparent, as these firms control 74.3% of the market. Their scale and resources allow them to weather economic downturns more effectively, maintaining market share through innovation and diversified product lines. In contrast, small and medium-sized companies have been hit harder by the crisis, struggling with tighter margins and fewer resources to compete in a price-sensitive market. These smaller players are focusing on technological advancements and product innovations to overcome the current slump. The findings are based on a comprehensive survey of over 2,200 producers, distributors, and industry experts across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.