FENSA highlights the underlying resilience of the glass and glazing sector

As global economic uncertainty continues to influence construction activity, FENSA is highlighting the underlying resilience of the glass and glazing sector.

Rising living costs, geopolitical instability and fluctuating interest rates are all contributing to a more cautious consumer. For many households, discretionary spending on home improvements is being more carefully considered, and this is naturally having an impact across the industry.

At the same time, recent disruption in other retrofit sectors have illustrated how quickly conditions can shift in parts of construction that are closely tied to government policy.

According to Sarah Kostense-Winterton, Chair of the Energy Efficiency Infrastructure Group, around 7,000 roles have already been made redundant in the insulation sector in just three months, with total job losses potentially reaching 70,000 by the end of the year.

Crucially, a large proportion of the insulation market had been heavily reliant on government-funded schemes such as the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) programme, which aimed to reduce fuel poverty by offering subsidised energy efficiency improvements.

However, the phasing out of ECO, and the introduction of the Warm Homes Plan which appears to deprioritise insulation, has had a direct impact on workload. As the insulation pipeline contracts, businesses dependent on scheme-led work are facing a sudden drop in demand.

Against this backdrop, the glazing sector presents a more stable – if not entirely immune – position.

“The reality is that no part of construction operates in isolation from the wider economy,” says Sam Davies, Technical Manager at FENSA. “We are seeing more cautious decision-making from homeowners. But what sets glazing apart is the structure of its demand.”

Advertisement

Unlike some other retrofit trades, which often depend heavily on government-backed schemes, the window and door market is largely driven by the able-to-pay consumer. While this means demand can soften during periods of economic pressure, it also avoids the sharp peaks and troughs associated with policy changes.

Importantly, many glazing projects are not purely discretionary. Replacing windows and doors is often linked to essential considerations such as energy efficiency, security and maintaining property value: factors that continue to drive activity even in more challenging economic climates.

This is supported by a strong framework of compliance and consumer trust. As a government-authorised competent person scheme, FENSA provides installers with a recognised route to demonstrate compliance, alongside practical guidance that helps them operate confidently in a regulated environment.

“In uncertain times, trust becomes even more critical,” Sam adds. “Homeowners want reassurance that they are making the right investment. Being able to demonstrate compliance and professionalism through FENSA helps installers provide that confidence.”

While short-term pressures are likely to remain, FENSA maintains that the glazing sector’s fundamentals remain robust. Its relative independence from government funding, combined with consistent underlying demand, positions it for longer-term stability.

“The current climate does require realism,” Sam concludes. “But it also highlights the strengths of this sector. It’s not immune to pressure, but it is resilient by design. With the right support and approach, installers are well placed to navigate uncertainty and build sustainable growth.”