The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is expected to reduce demand for plumbing fixtures and fittings in the United States through 2021, according to a new report from The Freedonia Group. The Cleveland-based research organization projects the U.S. market to return to pre-virus levels of growth by 2024, supported by residential design trends favoring multiple bathrooms and larger kitchens in the new construction and renovation market segments.
An increasing use of high-value fixtures, including products with unique spray patterns, touch or hands-free activation, and water efficiency features, is expected to bolster market gains once normalcy is restored in the economy. An aging U.S. population will also provide growth opportunities in the future as more consumers install products that are easier to use in their homes, according to The Freedonia Group.
Homeowners are desiring multiple bathrooms per house due to their convenience and their ability to boost home values. Older homeowners looking to age in place will also likely install bathrooms on all floors to reduce the need to climb stairs. Both these trends are positive signs for the plumbing fixture and fittings market as they promote a higher number of toilets, lavatories, bathtubs, and shower stalls per residence. Design trends favoring multiple sinks, such as his-and-her master suites, will also increase the number of fixtures per bathroom.
Manufacturers are responding to concerns about drought and water shortages by introducing products that reduce water consumption, such as toilets that use less water per flush and showerheads with low flow rates. The Freedonia Group projects governments and consumers will continue to opt for plumbing products that conserve water and reduce stress on water supply networks in the future. These innovative fixtures and fittings are often sold at higher price points, a contributing factor to higher value growth in the market. The Freedonia Group also predicts the aging population will create opportunities for new plumbing fixtures and fittings, including toilets with elevated seats, walk-in bathtubs, step-free shower surrounds, and touchless faucets and showerheads.
The full report, Plumbing Fittings & Fixtures, is available from The Freedonia Group for $5,600. The study analyzes U.S. demand for plumbing fixtures and fittings by product type, material, market, and region. The Freedonia Group uses historical data from 2009, 2014, and 2019 to make market forecasts for 2024 and 2029.