The 4th edition of the ‘Wetroom Market Report UK 2021-2025’ has been published by AMA Research. The report represents an informed and up-to-date review of this dynamic market.

It analyses the current trends by product sector – floor formers & trays, waterproofing kits, panels, and drainage. It includes estimates on wetroom installations in terms of volume and value, comment on market prospects and implications for manufacturers and the industry in general.

Until the Covid-19 pandemic, the UK wetroom market had been growing at a steady pace before it saw a sharp decline of around 9% in 2020. Some moderate recovery occurred during 2021, and further growth is anticipated in 2022, with pent-up demand driving sales going forward.

It is evident that wetrooms are being increasingly installed in both residential properties and in commercial buildings. This is in line with the consumer preference towards showering and the ongoing trend for minimalist, space-enhancing design.

The level of new housebuilding activity has a significant impact on demand for wetroom products, particularly in larger houses with 2+ bedrooms. Housing completions are forecast to further recover in 2022 and in the Autumn Budget the government pledged a further £1.8 billion towards the existing £10 billion target to invest in housing supply.

The market for residential wetroom products is also influenced by the level of refurbishment and improvement projects, where wetrooms are installed as part of a bathroom upgrade. Homeowners with equity in their properties or savings accumulated during periods of Covid-19 lockdown are likely drive refurbishment demand for more premium solutions.

With an ageing UK population there also remains a significant demand for ‘inclusive’ or care wetrooms that are both practical and easy to use. Wetroom demand will also be supported by the trend towards multi-generational households. These properties would need to be adapted inclusively to suit the needs of all family members living at home.

In the commercial sector, overall output is expected to recover to pre-pandemic levels in 2022. Key commercial end-use sectors for wetrooms include care homes, hotels including leisure facilities, health & fitness clubs, and purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA)

Demand for prefabricated wetroom pods is likely to show good growth, given the significant advantages they offer, particularly in terms of quality of finish, speed of construction and a reduction of trades onsite. Key application areas for these products are budget hotel rooms and PBSA. Wetroom pods are also a common accessible pod solution in care homes.

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Wetroom products are also likely to receive underlying motivation from growth in the self-build market. Self-builders invest more in their homes are more likely to demand aspirational products such as minimalist, open plan wetroom solutions.

As personalisation of home space and aesthetics become increasingly important, there will be a greater focus on quality, choice, and design. Flexibility, durability, and ease of installation will also remain key requirements and should support the shift towards higher value wetroom products in bespoke designs.

Key Issues Covered in the Report

  • An assessment of the effects that Covid-19 and Brexit will have on this market, including the current supply chain issues and the high cost of imports.
  • Demographic influences such as the ageing UK population and growth of multigenerational households.
  • Design trend towards personalisation of space and wider choice. The influence this has on wetroom product design.
  • Increasing demand for offsite solutions and use of prefabricated wetroom pods, in a number of commercial end-use sectors.
  • Development of wetroom solutions that consider the growing concerns for the environment, but also give value for money.

Areas of Particular Interest

  • Product innovation and technological developments in the floor formers and waterproofing sectors, resulting in reliable, leak-free solutions that are easy to install.
  • Increasing demand for space-enhancing wetroom panels, offered in bespoke designs, various colours, styles and glazing.
  • Growth of level access anti-slip trays, used as an alternative to floor formers, to add colour and zone the ‘wet’ area.
  • The trend towards ‘invisible’ drainage solutions such as wall drains, and high-flow linear drains in a range of designs, colours and finishes.
  • The importance of the direct sales channel with suppliers offering a ‘design, deliver, and fit’ service. The significant growth in online purchases.

The Wetroom Market Report – UK 2021-2025 is available now and can be ordered here.

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